The Jolly Judge: A Historic Edinburgh Pub Oasis
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.
Nestled at 7A Lawnmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Jolly Judge is a charming, independently owned traditional Scottish pub. Known for its low beamed ceilings, warm fireplace, and tranquil atmosphere, it offers a wide selection of malt whiskies, real ales, and classic bar lunches. Just minutes from Edinburgh Castle, this cozy pub provides a genuine taste of Scottish hospitality away from the tourist crowds.
A brief summary to The Jolly Judge
- 7A Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PB, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a Monday evening outside festival season to enjoy the pub’s popular quiz night starting at 8:30 PM.
- Try a hot toddy by the fire during colder months for a classic Scottish winter warming drink.
- In warmer weather, relax in the courtyard with a real ale or cider under the outdoor umbrellas.
- Explore nearby cultural sites like the Edinburgh Writer’s Museum and Makars Court to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
The Jolly Judge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Jolly Judge
A Historic Gem in Edinburgh’s Old Town
The Jolly Judge is tucked away at the foot of a narrow close off Lawnmarket, part of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. This location places it in the heart of the city’s Old Town, just a short two-minute walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The pub’s setting amid tall tenement buildings and its entrance down a few steps create an intimate, tucked-away feel, reminiscent of Edinburgh’s medieval past.Atmosphere and Interior Character
Inside, The Jolly Judge boasts low, exposed wooden beams and a welcoming fireplace that radiates warmth during colder months. The interior’s cozy, traditional Scottish pub style exudes a tranquil and inviting ambiance, making it a favored retreat from the bustling Royal Mile. The bar features a painted Renaissance ceiling, adding a unique historic charm and a visual highlight that connects patrons to Edinburgh’s rich cultural heritage.Exceptional Drinks and Culinary Offerings
The pub is celebrated for its extensive range of malt whiskies and real ales, including award-winning selections recognized by CAMRA as Edinburgh’s Pub of the Year in recent years. Seasonal specialties like hot toddies provide comforting options during chilly weather. Alongside drinks, The Jolly Judge serves tempting bar lunches, offering classic Scottish fare that complements its beverage menu.Community and Cultural Significance
For over three decades, The Jolly Judge has been independently owned, fostering a friendly and authentic atmosphere distinct from chain pubs. It has become a cherished local institution, often frequented by legal professionals from nearby courts. The pub also hosts a popular weekly quiz night outside festival season, strengthening its role as a community hub.Outdoor Space and Surroundings
In warmer months, visitors can enjoy the small courtyard outside, complete with tables and umbrellas, providing a relaxed outdoor drinking space surrounded by historic Edinburgh architecture. Nearby cultural landmarks include the Edinburgh Writer’s Museum and Makars Court, enriching the area’s literary and historic ambiance.Preserving Scottish Hospitality
The Jolly Judge exemplifies traditional Scottish hospitality with its warm welcome, quality products, and peaceful environment. Its independent status allows it to maintain high standards and a distinctive character, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Edinburgh pub experience beyond the typical tourist trail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady Stair's Close
0.1 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 Mound & Mound Place
0.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Edinburgh Underground
0.2 km
Discover the mysteries of Edinburgh Underground, where history and legend intertwine beneath the city's streets in a captivating journey.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical landmark on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending civic heritage with timeless architectural elegance.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.3 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover the untold stories of Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture at Uncovered Edinburgh, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland's capital.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Adam Smith Statue
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.3 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
Unmissable attractions to see
House of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Gladstone's Land
0.0 km
Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
Milne's Court
0.0 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
Scottish Experience
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
Lady Stair's House
0.0 km
A serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town, home to the Writers’ Museum and a rich literary heritage.
The Writers' Museum
0.0 km
Explore Scotland’s literary heritage in a charming 17th-century house dedicated to Burns, Scott, and Stevenson on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
0.0 km
Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
Whiski Rooms
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s award-winning whisky bar and restaurant offering over 300 whiskies, fresh Scottish cuisine, and daily tastings in a cosy historic setting.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
John Knox Monument
0.1 km
A powerful tribute in Edinburgh to John Knox, the fearless leader of Scotland’s Reformation and founder of Presbyterianism.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.1 km
Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Victoria St
0.1 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Assembly Hall
0.1 km
Historic Assembly Hall in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stunning venue blending ecclesiastical heritage with vibrant festival culture.
Museum on the Mound
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic banking history and the fascinating evolution of money in a free, interactive museum atop The Mound.
Essential places to dine
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Maison Bleue
0.1 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.1 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.1 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 Devil's Advocate
0.2 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Beehive Inn
0.3 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olde Edinburgh
0.0 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.1 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.1 km
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.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Godiva
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
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 Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.3 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.4 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.5 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Dragonfly
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.2 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
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
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
0.4 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Garibaldi's
0.6 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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- 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
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
