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The Raging Bull: Edinburgh’s Premier Cocktail Bar with a Vibrant Atmosphere

Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.

★★★★★4.7 (547)

Located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh, The Raging Bull is a stylish cocktail bar renowned for its expertly crafted drinks, especially its signature Espresso Martinis. With a funky, colorful interior and a welcoming vibe, it offers both lively upstairs spaces and intimate downstairs areas, perfect for socializing or enjoying free Fringe shows. The bar also hosts cocktail masterclasses, making it a hotspot for both casual visitors and cocktail enthusiasts.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to The Raging Bull

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

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161 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh, EH3 9AA, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
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Mid ranged
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Indoor
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Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Monday
4 pm-1 am
Tuesday
4 pm-1 am
Wednesday
4 pm-1 am
Thursday
4 pm-1 am
Friday
1 pm-1 am
Saturday
1 pm-1 am
Sunday
4 pm-1 am
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Raging Bull.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Try the signature Espresso Martini and its unique flavored variations, a specialty of The Raging Bull.
Book a cocktail masterclass for a fun, interactive experience perfect for groups and special occasions.
Visit downstairs to enjoy a more intimate setting and catch free Fringe Festival shows during the season.
Reserve the private party room for events; it accommodates up to 40 guests with a dedicated bar.
Arrive on Friday or Saturday afternoons when the bar opens earlier at 1 PM for a lively start to your evening.

Discover more about The Raging Bull

A Hub of Cocktail Excellence in Edinburgh

The Raging Bull stands out as one of Edinburgh’s top cocktail bars, celebrated for its dedication to quality and creativity in mixology. Situated on Lothian Road, it occupies a vibrant spot between the West End and Bruntsfield, making it easily accessible and a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The bar specializes in a wide range of cocktails, with a particular emphasis on the Espresso Martini and its innovative flavored variations. The experienced bartenders are known for their passion and skill, ensuring every drink is crafted to perfection.

Distinctive Ambience and Stylish Decor

The interior of The Raging Bull is a blend of funky and colorful aesthetics that create a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Upstairs, the space is eclectic and inviting, designed to foster social interaction and enjoyment of expertly mixed drinks. Downstairs offers a more private and intimate setting, ideal for relaxed evenings or small group gatherings. The venue’s mood lighting and comfortable seating enhance the overall experience, making it a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or work.

Engaging Experiences Beyond Drinks

Beyond serving cocktails, The Raging Bull offers cocktail masterclasses where guests can learn the art of cocktail making from skilled staff. These sessions include hands-on experience, shots, and multiple cocktails, making them popular for special occasions such as hen-dos, office parties, and celebrations. The bar also features a spacious private party room with its own bar, accommodating up to 40 guests, perfect for birthdays, work events, or social club gatherings.

A Venue with a Cultural Pulse

The Raging Bull plays an active role in Edinburgh’s cultural scene, particularly during the Fringe Festival. The bar hosts free Fringe shows downstairs, adding an artistic and entertainment dimension to its offerings. This connection to the arts complements its vibrant atmosphere and makes it a dynamic venue that supports local performers and creative expression.

Customer Service and Community Spirit

Known for its friendly and attentive staff, The Raging Bull prides itself on excellent customer service. Bartenders are helpful and knowledgeable, often assisting guests in selecting cocktails tailored to their tastes. The bar’s welcoming environment and dedication to quality have earned it a strong reputation and loyal following, reflected in its high ratings and positive feedback.

Convenient Location and Accessibility

Located at 161 Lothian Road, The Raging Bull benefits from being in a bustling part of Edinburgh with easy access to other city attractions. Its proximity to Edinburgh Castle and central districts makes it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable night out. The venue’s opening hours extend late into the night, accommodating a variety of schedules and ensuring a lively nightlife experience.

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    Getting There

    Bus

    Multiple Lothian Bus routes serve Lothian Road, with frequent service from Edinburgh city center taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day and evening, with single fares around £1.80–£2.00. Note that evening service frequency may reduce after midnight.

    Tram

    Edinburgh Trams stop at West End, about a 5-minute walk from The Raging Bull. Trams run every 7-10 minutes, connecting the city center with the airport and suburbs. Tickets cost around £1.80 for a single trip within the city zone.

    Taxi / Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in central Edinburgh. Travel time from Princes Street or the Old Town is typically 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares start around £5-£7 within the city center.

    Walking

    If you are staying nearby in the West End or city center, walking to The Raging Bull is convenient and enjoyable, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.

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    A brief summary to The Raging Bull

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