Frankenstein Bar on George IV Bridge, Edinburgh
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Frankenstein is a uniquely themed bar located in a converted 19th-century church on George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This atmospheric venue brings Mary Shelley’s classic tale to life with gothic decor and a lively, immersive experience. Situated near the Royal Mile, it offers a distinctive nightlife destination blending history, literature, and vibrant social scenes in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Frankenstein
- 26 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EN, GB
- +441316221818
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during evening hours for the full immersive gothic atmosphere and themed events.
- Book ahead for special occasions like Christmas parties to secure a spot with the Monster.
- Explore nearby historic sites on George IV Bridge and the Royal Mile to complement your visit.
- Try the bar’s signature themed cocktails inspired by the Frankenstein story.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Frankenstein location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Frankenstein
A Gothic Venue Rooted in Literary Legend
Frankenstein bar is housed in a striking 19th-century church building on George IV Bridge, a historic elevated street that connects Edinburgh’s South Side to the Old Town. The bar’s theme draws directly from Mary Shelley’s iconic novel, creating an immersive atmosphere where gothic horror meets contemporary nightlife. The venue’s design and ambiance evoke the eerie and mysterious world of Frankenstein’s monster, making it a destination that blends literary heritage with modern entertainment.Historic George IV Bridge Setting
George IV Bridge itself is a significant Edinburgh landmark, completed in 1836 and designed by architect Thomas Hamilton. It spans the Cowgate and links the Royal Mile with the southern parts of the city. The bridge is lined with important public buildings, including the National Library of Scotland and the Edinburgh Central Library, and is known for its elevated street character. Frankenstein bar’s location here places it amid a rich urban tapestry of history, culture, and architecture.Atmosphere and Experience
Inside Frankenstein, the gothic theme is pervasive, with dark, theatrical interiors inspired by the Frankenstein story. The bar offers a lively and unique environment where visitors can enjoy themed drinks and events, including seasonal parties like Christmas celebrations with the Monster. Its blend of historic architecture and immersive storytelling creates a memorable experience for locals and tourists alike.Proximity to Edinburgh’s Cultural Heart
Situated just steps from the Royal Mile, Frankenstein bar benefits from its proximity to Edinburgh’s most famous tourist attractions, including historic closes, museums, and the vibrant Old Town nightlife. This location makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s rich literary and gothic heritage, as well as those seeking a distinctive social venue with a story to tell.Community and Popularity
The bar is well-regarded locally and internationally, boasting thousands of photos shared online and a strong reputation for its unique concept. It attracts a diverse crowd, from literature enthusiasts to nightlife seekers, all drawn by its blend of history, storytelling, and spirited atmosphere. The venue’s moderate price level makes it accessible while maintaining a high-quality experience.Legacy of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s connection to Frankenstein extends beyond the bar, with the city serving as a backdrop for various adaptations and filming locations related to the story. This cultural resonance enhances the bar’s appeal, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the gothic lore that has long fascinated locals and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pont George Ⅳ
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Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
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Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
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Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
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Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
David Hume Statue
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A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
1 Parliament Sqr
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Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
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Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Adam Smith Statue
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Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
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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
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Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Lady Stair's Close
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Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The High Street Wellhead
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Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Department Of Magic
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Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Of The Dead Tours
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Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
National Museum of Scotland
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Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
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Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
Central Library
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Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
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Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
The Three Sisters
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Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
National Library of Scotland
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Explore Scotland’s largest library on George IV Bridge, where priceless manuscripts, exhibitions, and a vibrant cultural heritage await.
Ballie Ballerson
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
Victoria St
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Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Supreme Courts
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Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours
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Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
Edinburgh Old Town
0.2 km
Step into Edinburgh Old Town, where medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture unite in Scotland’s historic capital.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
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Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
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Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
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An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Essential places to dine
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
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Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
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Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
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Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.2 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Ondine Restaurant
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Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
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Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
0.2 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.3 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
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A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Makars Mash Bar
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Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Amber Restaurant
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Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
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Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Beehive Inn
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Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
The Piper's Rest
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Wood's Fossils
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Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
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Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Olde Edinburgh
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Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Heritage of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Court Curio Shop
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Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
I Love Scotland
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Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
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Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Galaxy
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Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Scotland Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Museum Context
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Step into Edinburgh’s historic wizarding world with Museum Context, a magical Harry Potter shop brimming with collectibles and charm.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Frankenstein
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Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
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A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
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A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Captain's Bar
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Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Copper Still
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Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Royal Mile Tavern
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Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Dragonfly
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Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
56 North
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Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
The World's End
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Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Cocktail Geeks
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Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Legends
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Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
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Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
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Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
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Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Mash House
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A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
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Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
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Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
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Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
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Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
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Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Garibaldi's
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Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Club Tropicana
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Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly