The Jolly Botanist: Edinburgh’s Charming Victorian Gin Bar
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
Nestled in Edinburgh’s West End, The Jolly Botanist is a specialist gin bar known for its inviting Victorian-style interior, extensive gin selection, and hearty Scottish-inspired pub fare. With a friendly atmosphere and quirky decor, it offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary conviviality, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to The Jolly Botanist
- 256-260 Morrison St, Edinburgh, EH3 8DT, GB
- +441312285596
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 1 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 1 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 1 pm-12 am
- Thursday 1 pm-12 am
- Friday 1 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Try one of the expertly crafted gin cocktails to fully appreciate the bar’s botanical focus.
- Visit during off-peak hours on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service.
- Sample the traditional Scottish pies, a popular choice that pairs well with the gin selection.
- Reserve a table in advance during weekends or busy evenings to secure a preferred seating spot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Jolly Botanist location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Jolly Botanist
A Distinctive Victorian Ambience in Edinburgh’s West End
The Jolly Botanist is a specialist gin bar located at 256-260 Morrison Street in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End. Celebrated for its richly detailed Victorian-style interior, the venue exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to linger. The decor is thoughtfully curated with botanical motifs and vintage touches, creating a unique environment that blends historic charm with a lively pub vibe. This setting not only enhances the drinking experience but also offers a feast for the eyes with its quirky and characterful design elements.Exceptional Gin Selection and Craftsmanship
At the heart of The Jolly Botanist’s appeal is its extensive gin menu, boasting a wide variety of gins from Scotland and beyond. The bar prides itself on knowledgeable staff who guide guests through the nuances of different gin flavors, cordials, and garnishes, elevating the classic gin and tonic to an art form. This dedication to gin craftsmanship has earned the bar a reputation as a must-visit destination for gin enthusiasts seeking both familiar and rare botanical blends.Hearty Scottish-Inspired Pub Fare
Complementing the drinks is a menu of traditional Scottish pub food with a modern twist. Signature dishes such as steak and ale pies, chicken and haggis pie, and vegetarian options like sweet potato burgers showcase local ingredients and hearty flavors. The food is designed to pair well with the bar’s drink offerings, providing a satisfying and authentic culinary experience. While some dishes have received mixed feedback on texture, the overall quality and flavor profile remain a strong draw for patrons.Community Spirit and Welcoming Service
The Jolly Botanist is known for its friendly and attentive staff who contribute significantly to the venue’s inviting atmosphere. The bar fosters a sense of community, welcoming a diverse clientele ranging from locals to tourists, families to couples. This inclusive spirit, combined with efficient service even during busy periods, makes it a reliable choice for casual drinks, social gatherings, or special occasions.Vibrant Social Hub with Live Music and Events
Beyond its core offerings, The Jolly Botanist often hosts live music and events that add to its lively ambiance. These occasions provide entertainment that complements the botanical theme and enhance the overall experience. The venue’s layout, featuring varied seating arrangements and cozy corners, supports both intimate conversations and larger social groups, making it a versatile spot for nightlife in Edinburgh.Strategic Location with Easy Urban Access
Situated in a bustling area of Edinburgh, the bar benefits from proximity to other attractions and transport links. Its location on Morrison Street places it within easy reach for visitors exploring the city’s West End, making it an accessible destination for both locals and travelers seeking a distinctive pub experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Dean Bridge
0.7 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
15 Charlotte Square
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Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
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A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Royal Palace
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Discover the Royal Palace of Edinburgh: a historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage, breathtaking architecture, and stunning gardens in the heart of the city.
St. Bernard's Well
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An elegant 18th-century Greco-Roman temple in Edinburgh, famed for its healing mineral spring and classical beauty beside the Water of Leith.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
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Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
1.1 km
Discover stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot that showcases the beauty of Scotland's capital.
Flodden Wall
1.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Rose St
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
Princes Street Gardens
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Princes Street Gardens, where lush landscapes meet iconic views of Edinburgh Castle in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The India Cross
1.2 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
The Witches Well
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A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
1.2 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
1.3 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Floral Clock
1.3 km
Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
West End
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s West End, where historic grandeur meets vibrant culture in a charming city district full of art, architecture, and scenic beauty.
Fountain Park
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant leisure complex offering bowling, trampolining, cinema, dining, and arcade fun for all ages in a lively urban setting.
Escape Edinburgh
0.5 km
Dive into immersive escape rooms on Morrison Street, where clever puzzles and captivating stories await every team.
Lothian Rd
0.6 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
Edinburgh Guided Tour
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Lochrin Basin
0.6 km
A serene canal terminus blending historic charm and modern urban life in the heart of Edinburgh’s Fountainbridge.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.6 km
Discover the craft of brewing at Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom in Edinburgh, where great beer and live music create a unique atmosphere.
The Usher Hall
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s iconic Edwardian concert hall renowned for world-class acoustics and diverse performances in a majestic historic setting.
Water of Leith Walkway
0.6 km
A serene 13-mile riverside trail weaving through Edinburgh’s history, nature, and culture from Balerno to Leith.
St. John's Church Hall
0.7 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Dean Village
0.7 km
Discover Dean Village, Edinburgh’s tranquil historic milling village with cobbled streets, scenic river views, and timeless Victorian charm.
Well Court
0.7 km
Discover Well Court, a beautifully restored Victorian Arts and Crafts social housing gem nestled in Edinburgh’s tranquil Dean Village.
Water of Leith Weir
0.7 km
A serene and historic riverside retreat near Dean Village, blending nature, heritage, and tranquil waters in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.7 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Hoots - Comedy, Drag, & Cabaret Bar
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy and drag cabaret bar blending laughter, glamour, and local talent in a lively, inclusive setting.
Essential places to dine
The Palmerston
0.1 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
First Coast Restaurant
0.4 km
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Locanda de Gusti
0.4 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
Forage & Chatter
0.6 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
The Pompadour
0.6 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Dine Edinburgh
0.7 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Aizle
0.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
TIMBERYARD
0.8 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
BABA
0.8 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Badger & Co
1.0 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
1.0 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Contini George Street
1.1 km
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Beehive Inn
1.1 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Amber Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
1.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ScotlandShop
0.6 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Poundland
0.6 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
One World Shop
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.8 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Edinburgh Art Shop
0.8 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Freak Unique
0.8 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Herman Brown
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Emporium 62
0.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
The Treasure Trove
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
1.0 km
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Portcullis Gift Shop
1.0 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Gifts
1.1 km
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Godiva
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Nice Stuff
1.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jolly Botanist
0.0 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.5 km
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BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
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The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
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Heads & Tales Gin Bar
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NQ64 Edinburgh
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The Caley Bar
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The Raging Bull
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SKYbar Edinburgh
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Dirty Dick's Pub
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Panda & Sons
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Dragonfly
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Never Really Here
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Copper Blossom
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Lucky Liquor Co
1.2 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
