The Best Bars & Pubs Around The Royal Mile, Edinburgh

For quintessential pub vibes and the mandatory post-Castle pint, Deacon Brodies Tavern marks the spot. This real ale drinking den, with its traditional décor, smashing selection of tipples and drams, cask-conditioned beers, and lively banter, attracts tourists and locals alike. Sit at the bar and listen to the lulling sing-song tones of those inside, and delight in the best of Scottish pub grub. The vibrant history of this traditional tavern is as fascinating as the atmosphere within these intriguing walls.

Nestled within Advocates Close in an old Victorian pump house, The Devil’s Advocate is the most delightful of sin bins. From the myriad of Scottish and worldly whiskies (there are over 200) to expertly picked craft beers, and enough wine to whet the appetite, punters will be well pleased. The inventive seasonal cocktails are heavenly too. Foodies can delight in the deftly skilled chefs, who conjure up new culinary artworks from the best of fresh Scottish produce on a monthly basis.

Holyrood 9A is where the cool cats go. The wood paneling and chilled atmosphere is welcoming. Consider it the perfect pick to kick back after a gruelling day’s work. However, the real beauty is the food and drink. With over 20 beer and ale varieties, enough wine for a lifetime, fancy cocktails, specialty spirits, and the usual loyal suspects, expect enough liquid gold to fill your treasure chest. Food wise, this place is the bomb. Choose from over 15 types of gourmet burgers made from the finest local ingredients that are cooked to perfection. The sharing boards are a great light snack option amongst friends.

Monteiths is an intimate cocktail bar and restaurant specialising in innovative recipes. From chic contemporary tartan accents to wood furnishings, relaxing vibes, top drinks, and great bites, it is no surprise that this boutique bar has won so many awards. A perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile, sip on expertly crafted cocktails and go wild with the excellent menu. This one should be your fail-safe loyal go-to bar when in need of a tipple.

A trusty favourite for locals since 1987, The Bow Bar is a down to earth compact pub, free from unnecessary bells and whistles. Stop in for fresh hearty soups, pies, and snacks, and bask in the friendly ambience of this traditional drinking hole. Those with a specific thirst and a penchant for a good time can’t help but gravitate to The Bow like a Scotsman to a kilt. With around 310 single malts, eight cask-conditioned ales, six kegs, and 50 international beers, consider this a must-try spot.

For a sophisticated time, barrels of wine, and delicious Italian food, look no further than Divino Enoteca. This state of the art wine bar exudes an essence of understated luxury, with the cloud white marble counters and black leather chairs. Oh, and the wine list is longer than the Forth Road Bridge. Enomatic, the pioneering, state-of-the-art wine dispenser, provides bottles the necessary protection from oxidation, which means that every glass will taste just so. Sipping on the glorious selection of fine Italian wines in such a stunning setting will make you forget that you are on the Royal Mile.