Thistle Street Bar: A Cozy Edinburgh Gem with Authentic Local Vibes
A warm, authentic Edinburgh bar with lively folk music, quality drinks, and a welcoming local atmosphere in the heart of Old Town.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, Thistle Street Bar offers a warm, inviting atmosphere cherished by locals and visitors alike. Known for its excellent selection of beers, lively live folk music nights, and attentive, passionate staff, this bar combines traditional Scottish pub charm with a welcoming, authentic vibe. Its moderate pricing and friendly environment make it a perfect spot for casual drinks and cultural immersion.
A brief summary to Thistle Street Bar
- 39 Thistle St, Edinburgh, EH2 1DY, GB
- +441312251664
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 3 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 3 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesday evenings to enjoy live traditional Scottish folk music sessions.
- Try the expertly crafted Bloody Mary, a house specialty praised by regulars.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure a seat as the bar can get lively and busy.
- Engage with the friendly staff to learn about Edinburgh’s history and local stories.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Thistle Street Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Thistle Street Bar
A Welcoming Local Haven in Edinburgh's Old Town
Thistle Street Bar is a quintessential Edinburgh pub located at 39 Thistle Street, right in the bustling Old Town. It has earned a reputation as a cozy and lively spot where locals and visitors feel equally at home. The bar's interior exudes a warm and intimate ambiance, with polished glassware and friendly bartenders who engage guests with stories and a genuine passion for hospitality. This approachable atmosphere makes it a standout among the city's many drinking establishments.Rich Traditions and Live Music
A highlight of Thistle Street Bar is its vibrant live music scene, particularly traditional Scottish folk and Irish fiddle performances. Regular sessions, especially on Tuesday evenings, create an authentic cultural experience that enhances the bar’s charm. The music complements the convivial spirit, inviting patrons to relax, socialize, and soak in Edinburgh’s rich musical heritage.Quality Drinks and Thoughtful Service
The bar prides itself on offering a well-curated selection of beers, including local craft brews and a variety of single malt whiskies. Drinks are expertly served by knowledgeable staff who take the time to ensure each glass is perfect. Signature cocktails, such as the highly praised Bloody Mary, showcase the bartenders’ skill and dedication. This attention to detail and quality elevates the experience beyond a typical pub visit.Community Spirit and Unique Atmosphere
Thistle Street Bar stands out for its unique atmosphere created by passionate owners and staff who foster a sense of community. It is a place where stories are shared, friendships forged, and visitors are welcomed as if they were locals. The bar’s commitment to maintaining an authentic and unpretentious environment ensures it remains a cherished fixture in Edinburgh’s social scene.Perfect for a Relaxed Evening or Cultural Exploration
Whether you’re seeking a casual drink after a day of sightseeing or a lively venue to enjoy traditional music, Thistle Street Bar caters to a diverse crowd. Its moderate pricing and central location make it accessible, while its character and quality offerings provide a memorable experience. This bar is a must-visit for those wanting to immerse themselves in Edinburgh’s local culture.Nearby Culinary and Social Highlights
Situated on Thistle Street, the bar is surrounded by notable eateries and vibrant venues, including acclaimed bistros and tapas bars. This proximity enriches the visit, allowing guests to combine their bar experience with excellent dining options, enhancing the overall appeal of the area as a social and cultural hub.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.1 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Melville Monument
0.4 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.5 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.5 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.5 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Lady Stair's Close
0.6 km
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 Georgian House
0.6 km
Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.6 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.6 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Gladstone's Land
0.6 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
Milne's Court
0.6 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
Edinburgh Castle
0.6 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s oldest Christian worship site, the Parish Church of St Cuthbert blends ancient heritage with stunning architecture and vibrant community life.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Unmissable attractions to see
Assembly Rooms
0.1 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
The Dome
0.2 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Rose St
0.2 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Heriot Row
0.2 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.2 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
Princes St
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Floral Clock
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
The Royal Scottish Academy
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Panoramic view Castle
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Princes Street Gardens
0.4 km
Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Oxford Bar
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
St Andrew Square
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
Essential places to dine
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
The Table
0.2 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Amarone
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
Contini George Street
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.3 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Badger & Co
0.4 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.4 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
The Magnum
0.5 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Lady Libertine
0.5 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.5 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.5 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.3 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Unicorn Antiques
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.6 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
I Love Scotland
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
House of Scotland
0.6 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The Court Curio Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thistle Street Bar
0.0 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Bon Vivant
0.1 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Grand Cru
0.1 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Bramble Bar
0.1 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.2 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.2 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
0.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.3 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Nightcap
0.4 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Panda & Sons
0.5 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
The Last Word
0.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Opal Lounge
0.1 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.1 km
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.
El Barrio Latino
0.2 km
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.
Why Not Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.3 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Club Tropicana
0.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Legends
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.9 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.9 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Live Music
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
