Background

Kirkside Bar: A Traditional Pub Heartbeat in Perth

Experience the warm, traditional charm of Kirkside Bar, Perth’s beloved city-centre pub with great ales and a welcoming atmosphere.

★★★★★4.5 (147)

Kirkside Bar, affectionately known as 'the Kirky,' is a welcoming traditional pub located in the heart of Perth city centre. Renowned for its warm atmosphere, it offers a diverse selection of beers, spirits, and real ales, complemented by a charming outdoor beer terrace. This inexpensive bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing a relaxed setting with friendly service and a genuine Scottish pub experience.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Kirkside Bar

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

Plan your visit

📍
9 St John's Pl, Perth, PH1 5SZ, GB
🕒
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
💷
Budget
🏛
Indoor
📶
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Monday
12 pm-12 am
Tuesday
12 pm-12 am
Wednesday
12 pm-12 am
Thursday
12 pm-12 am
Friday
12 pm-12 am
Saturday
12 pm-12 am
Sunday
12 pm-12 am
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kirkside Bar.

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

Visit the outdoor beer terrace for a sheltered yet open-air experience, perfect for Perth’s unpredictable weather.
Try local draft ales like McEwans Export and Ossian for an authentic Scottish taste.
Plan your visit between noon and 10pm on weekdays for full service hours; Sundays close earlier at 6pm.
Engage with the friendly staff to learn about the pub’s history and local drink recommendations.

Discover more about Kirkside Bar

A Historic Gathering Place in Perth

Kirkside Bar, locally nicknamed "the Kirky," stands as a cherished traditional pub nestled in the vibrant city centre of Perth. Its location on 9 St John's Place places it within easy reach of the city's cultural and historic landmarks, making it a natural stop for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Scottish pub atmosphere. The pub's enduring presence reflects Perth's rich social tapestry, where community and conviviality are celebrated.

Atmosphere and Ambience

The bar exudes a warm and inviting vibe, blending traditional pub charm with a relaxed, friendly environment. Inside, patrons find a cozy interior that encourages lingering conversations and shared moments over drinks. The front beer terrace adds an al fresco dimension, offering covered outdoor seating that is perfect for enjoying Perth’s changing weather while staying sheltered. This terrace is especially valued during festivals and sunny days, enhancing the pub’s appeal.

Beverage Selection and Offerings

Kirkside Bar is noted for its extensive selection of spirits, beers, and particularly real ales, including popular local brews such as McEwans Export and Ossian on draft. The bar caters to a range of tastes, from classic Scottish whiskies to well-kept cask ales, making it a hotspot for enthusiasts of traditional drinks. Its pricing is considered inexpensive, providing excellent value without compromising quality.

Community and Cultural Significance

More than just a drinking venue, Kirkside Bar serves as a social hub within Perth, fostering a sense of community. Its reputation for friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a place where visitors can experience genuine Scottish hospitality. The pub also holds the status of an Asset of Community Value, underscoring its importance to the local social fabric.

Practical Details and Visitor Experience

Open daily from noon until late evening, Kirkside Bar accommodates a variety of schedules, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays. The bar’s layout and service style emphasize comfort and accessibility, making it suitable for casual visits or longer social gatherings. While it maintains a traditional character, the venue is well-kept and clean, ensuring a pleasant experience for all guests.

Nearby Attractions and Integration

Situated in Perth’s city centre, Kirkside Bar is close to notable sites such as the Kirk of St. John the Baptist and Perth Museum. This proximity allows visitors to combine cultural exploration with social relaxation, making the bar an ideal stop during a day of sightseeing or an evening out in the city. Its location on St John's Place places it amidst a lively urban setting with easy access to other dining and entertainment options.

Explore places near Kirkside Bar

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Kirkside Bar

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Bus

    Take local bus services from Perth Bus Station to the city centre; the journey typically lasts 10–15 minutes with frequent departures. The stop near St John's Place is within a short walk of Kirkside Bar. Tickets cost around £1.80–£3.00 depending on the route.

    Train

    Perth Railway Station is about 1.5 km from Kirkside Bar. From the station, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride (5 minutes) can bring you directly to the bar. Taxi fares usually range from £5 to £8.

    Taxi

    Local taxi services are readily available throughout Perth city centre. A taxi ride from central locations typically takes 5–10 minutes and costs approximately £5–£10 depending on traffic.

    Walking

    If staying nearby in Perth city centre, Kirkside Bar is easily accessible on foot via paved streets. Walking times range from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your starting point, with flat terrain suitable for most mobility levels.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Trash Bins
    Information Boards

    Kirkside Bar location weather suitability

    Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.

    Weather icon
    Any Weather
    Weather icon
    Rain / Wet Weather
    Weather icon
    Mild Temperatures

    A brief summary to Kirkside Bar

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

    A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.

    Busiest months of the year

    Seasonality

    Busiest hours of the day

    Footfall
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Perth and Kinross Scone Palace 2.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    More about Perthshire

    Discover Perthshire: Scotland's Heartland of Natural Beauty, Cultural Heritage, and Outdoor Adventure.

    Tell me more about Perthshire

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.