Edinburgh's Best Cocktail Bars: A Guide to the City's Most Exciting Drinking Dens
Edinburgh's cocktail scene has evolved from simple pub serves to a sophisticated tapestry of mixology magic. Whether you're after theatrical drinks with smoke and mirrors, intimate speakeasies hidden behind secret doors, or rooftop terraces with castle views, Scotland's capital has something to shake up your evening.
The Show-Stoppers: Where Drama Meets Drinks
The Voodoo Rooms
Location: West Register Street (New Town)
Price Range: Moderate (£8-12 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Victorian opulence meets tiki glamour
Step into this multi-award-winning venue and you'll feel transported to another era. Housed in a beautiful Victorian building just off Princes Street, the Voodoo Rooms is all about old-school glamour with a twist. The main bar stretches along one wall of a stunning dining room, illuminated by high-arched windows and decorated in dramatic black and gold.
The cocktail menu is where things get exciting. With creations like 'Release The Voodoo'
(featuring 12-year-old rum, crème de figue, and pimento dram) and 'Spice Up Your Life' (chilli-infused tequila with sumac salt), the mixologists here aren't afraid to push boundaries. If you're feeling adventurous, try one of their strong prohibition-style cocktails served in vintage teapots with cups and saucers.
Beyond the drinks, the Voodoo Rooms boasts an extensive selection of speciality rums and tequilas, plus five rooms and four bars spread across the building. During the Edinburgh Fringe, it transforms into a buzzing entertainment venue with comedy, cabaret, and live music. Founded in 2007, it's become a cultural institution that proves cocktail bars can be about so much more than just the drinks.
The Alchemist
Location: St James Quarter and George Street
Price Range: Moderate to Expensive
The Vibe: Dark, theatrical, and Instagram-worthy
If you want your drinks with a side of spectacle, The Alchemist delivers. This is where cocktails are smashed, popped, and transformed right before your eyes. Expect smoke, dry ice, and concoctions served in vessels that look more like science experiments than drinks. The décor channels Edinburgh's dark and mysterious history, making it perfect for those seeking an experience as much as a beverage.
Copper Blossom
Location: off George St
Price Range: Moderate (£10-13 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Garden-inspired Instagram paradise
This basement bar with floor-to-ceiling windows has become one of Edinburgh's most photographed cocktail venues. The garden-inspired décor features vintage floral print walls and fairy-light ceilings that create an enchanted atmosphere. The small plates are as impressive as the cocktails, making it perfect for a full evening out.
The Hidden Gems: Speakeasies and Secret Spots
Panda & Sons
Location: Queen Street (New Town)
Price Range: Moderate (£10-14 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Speakeasy magic behind a barber shop façade
Walk past this place, and you might miss it entirely—which is exactly the point. Hidden behind a vintage American barber shop exterior, Panda & Sons requires you to find the secret door. Once inside, you're transported to a 1920s speakeasy with Wind in the Willows-inspired décor that's both quirky and sophisticated.
The drinks menu, called 'Transcend,' showcases unique techniques and flavours. Try the Solasta, featuring Johnnie Walker Gold and Talisker whisky with marsala wine and a touch of smoke. Named the 9th best bar in the UK and listed among the World's 50 Best Bars, this is one of Edinburgh's most acclaimed cocktail destinations.
Never Really Here
Location: 89 Rose St North Lane
Price Range: Moderate to expensive (£10-20 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Speakeasy, Hidden door, tiny and cool.
Hidden behind metal grates, frosted glass and a worn old door is this intimate hidden cocktail bar. Cocktails are stong, stripped back and designed for you. No menus here, talk to your bartender and theyll make someting for you. Be warned though, you might not get the same drink twice!
Bramble
Location: Queen Street (New Town basement)
Price Range: Moderate (£9-12 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Underground and effortlessly cool
Back in 2006, Bramble pioneered Edinburgh's modern cocktail culture by bringing sophisticated mixology to a discreet basement location. The venue maintains its original speakeasy feel with alcoves, distressed interiors, and candlelight. It's relaxed without being casual, skilled without being pretentious.
The bartenders are known for their knowledge and their ability to recommend something perfect for your taste. Order the signature Bramble cocktail (gin, lemon, sugar, and blackberry liqueur) or let the staff guide you through their experimental menu. Despite its acclaim, Bramble remains refreshingly unpretentious.
The Award Winners: Where the Pros Mix
Hey Palu
Location: Bread Street (Old Town)
Price Range: Moderate (£10-13 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Intimate Italian-inspired sophistication
Currently ranked as Scotland's best bar and the UK's 5th best cocktail bar, Hey Palu is where Italian aperitivo culture meets modern classic cocktails. The intimate space features dark leather bar seating and a killer playlist that sets the perfect mood.
What makes Hey Palu special is their extensive Amari collection—nearly 75 varieties of these Italian bittersweet liqueurs line the back bar. The menu includes 'Palu's Favourites' like the rhubarb Americano and dirty vodka martini, plus their own takes on classics such as the coconut white Russian. For £11, try the dealer's choice and let the expert team surprise you. Winner of Best Cocktail Bar at the 2023 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards and voted 2023 Bar Team of the Year at Top 50 Cocktail Bars, this place is the real deal.
Lochrin
Location: Fountainbridge
Price Range: Moderate to Expensive (£11-15 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Rooftop sophistication with castle views
Winner of Best Hotel Bar at the 2024 Scottish Bar and Pub Awards, Lochrin occupies a stunning rooftop location with views across Edinburgh. The heated outdoor terrace means you can enjoy those vistas year-round while sipping on signatures like the One O'Clock Gun Martini or the chilli-infused Lafayette.
The setting celebrates Edinburgh's whisky heritage and industrial past, with cocktails that showcase Scottish spirits alongside innovative creations. Pair your drinks with carefully curated small plates for a complete experience.
The Neighbourhood Spots
West End: Sophisticated Sipping in Style
Heads & Tales
Price Range: Moderate (£10-14 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Gin distillery meets underground cocktail bar
This bar and distillery houses Edinburgh Gin's working stills behind tempered glass, making it a unique drinking destination. Tucked down the stairs behind a non-suspecting wooden door between The Huxley and Taco Libre. Home to Edinburgh Gin's working stills (Flora and Caledonia), you can watch the distilling process while sipping creative cocktails. The cosy underground space features nooks and crannies perfect for intimate gatherings. Known for forward-thinking cocktails with a dash of fun, they also serve light bites and butter boards.
The Huxley
Price Range: Moderate (£10-13 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Creative and experimental
This West End cocktail enthusiast's dream destination is all about unique flavour combinations and stunning presentations. Reviews consistently praise the lovely cocktails and the friendly, professional team. The inviting atmosphere and innovative drink menu make it perfect for unwinding after work or celebrating special occasions. The dynamic energy and exceptional service deliver an unforgettable cocktail experience.
West Room
Price Range: Moderate (£9-12 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Extensive selection with friendly service
Nestled in the heart of the West End, WestRoom boasts an extensive cocktail list that's garnered rave reviews. The great selection of drinks and cocktails, paired with friendly, professional, and accommodating service, creates an inviting haven for both locals and visitors. Moderately priced for the city centre, it's perfect for pre-dinner cocktails.
Encore Edinburgh
Price Range: Moderate to Expensive (£11-15 per cocktail)
The Vibe: 1920s Parisian speakeasy
Edinburgh's West End is home to this beautiful bar styled as a 1920s Parisian speakeasy. The ambience transports you to another era with period-appropriate décor and sophisticated cocktails crafted with attention to detail.
Lady Libertine
Price Range: Moderate (£9-13 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Two floors, two vibes
This versatile venue offers two distinct experiences under one roof. The ground floor Café Bar exudes laid-back sophistication and casual cool from mid-morning to late evening.
Descend downstairs to find a more intimate ambience in the subterranean Restaurant & Bar—moody, luxurious, and perfect for lingering long into the night. Each floor has its own distinct character and tailored opening hours.
Stockbridge: Village Charm with Cocktail Class
The Last Word Saloon
Location: Stockbridge
Price Range: Moderate (£9-12 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Cosy neighbourhood bar with whisky expertise
The Last Word offers over 100 whiskies from across Scotland and beyond, and Chartreuse on tap. This cosy lounge space feels more accessible than a typical cocktail bar, with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. The constantly evolving selection features interesting bottles from well-known distilleries and unique bottlings from new up-and-comers. It has that perfect energy of a kitchen at a house party where everyone gravitates to the bar. This is a cosy cocktail place, with a low lit relaxing ambience and top-tier cocktails.
Tollcross: The Neighbourhood That Knows Its Cocktails
The Wildcat
Price Range: Budget-Friendly to Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Neighbourhood gem with serious cocktail credentials
Ranked 46th best bar in the UK, The Wildcat might be slightly outside the tourist trail, but that's exactly what makes it special. This intimate spot with eclectic décor has become a favourite among locals who appreciate craft cocktails served without pretension.
The menu is packed with flavour but presented simply. Try the Pesca Picante, a chipotle butter-washed mezcal blend that's become a regular favourite. The Wildcat proves that Edinburgh's cocktail excellence extends well beyond the city centre.
Cloisters Bar
Price Range: Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Converted church with character
Housed in a former church, Cloisters retains many of the building's original features, creating a unique atmosphere. It's a great bar for any occasion, whether quiet drinks or a lively night out. The cocktail selection is solid, and the distinctive setting makes it memorable.
The Blackbird
Price Range: Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Relaxed cafe-bar on the meadows
Serving a wide range of cocktails in a cosy indoor or outdoor setting. Surround yourself with locals in the neighbourhood favourite with terrific terrace garden sitting area. Voted top 30 cocktail bars and terraces in the UK by the Times Newspaper. Also hosts BBQs in the summertime outside in the beer garden, this is a local favourite for coffee, lunch, cocktails and socialising.
Newington & Southside: Where Students and Locals Mix
The Dog House
Price Range: Budget-Friendly (£3-6 per cocktail!)
The Vibe: Eccentric, quirky, and utterly unique
This place is more like a museum than a bar. With decor ranging from Star Wars ships to stuffed toys, a teddy bear graveyard, and unusual collections throughout, there's something new to discover on every visit. Famous for £3 cocktails, Butterbeer (yes, like Harry Potter), and frozen cocktails, The Dog House attracts an alternative and student crowd with its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The revolving menu features brightly colored, unique and sugary cocktails, including the sweet Drumstick Lolly. It's dog-friendly (naturally), with Hero the English Bulldog as the resident mascot. Live music, DJs, and quiz nights add to the entertainment. The vibe is fun, inclusive, and unpretentious—everyone from teenagers to older adults feels welcome. Portions of pub food are generous, and the atmosphere is described as a "mash-up of music, madness, and chaos."
While reviews are mixed (it's definitely a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place), those who love it really love it. The eclectic mix makes it one of Edinburgh's most characterful bars.
Southpour Location: Newington
Price Range: Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Cosy corner café-bar
Located on a cosy corner of Newington, Southpour serves craft beers, boutique spirits, seasonal fresh food, and coffee. Whether you're in for brunch, lunch, dinner, or catch-up cocktails with friends, you'll find a warm welcome. It's perfect for grabbing a coffee and using the WiFi during the day, then transforming into a relaxed evening drinking spot.
The Southern
Location: South Clerk Street, Newington
Price Range: Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Charming neighbourhood bar
This Southside spot boasts a charming ambience and knowledgeable staff. The well-stocked bar features craft beers and tantalising cocktails, attracting a diverse crowd of students and young professionals. It's a solid neighbourhood choice for quality drinks in a welcoming setting.
Leith: Where the Port Meets the Pour
The Lioness of Leith
Price Range: Budget-Friendly to Moderate (£8-11 per cocktail)
Voted Leith's Best Bar in its first year, this former derelict pub with a dark history has been transformed into a lively bar and bistro. Known for seasonal European and British cuisine alongside inventive cocktails, it's become a community hub with weekend DJs and live music. The 'After Hours' margarita menu appears after 10pm when the lights dim and the music cranks up—perfect for locals and visitors who want to experience Leith's authentic nightlife.
Nauticus
Price Range: Moderate (£9-12 per cocktail)
Drawing inspiration from Leith's maritime heritage, Nauticus champions Scottish produce with a creative cocktail menu and indie-led whisky list. The backlit bar is cleverly organised by flavour profile, helping guests find their perfect drink. Pair your cocktail with charcuterie and cheeseboards from local suppliers.
Port of Leith Distillery Bar
Price Range: Moderate to Expensive (£12-16 per cocktail)
On the eighth floor of this working distillery, you'll find panoramic views of Edinburgh, Leith, and the Firth of Forth. The bar offers well-crafted cocktails and an impressive new-wave whisky collection alongside thoughtfully curated small plates. It's slightly pricier than other Leith venues, but the views and quality justify the extra pounds.
Morningside & Bruntsfield: Southside Sophistication
McLarens on the Corner
Location: Corner of Bruntsfield & Morningside
Price Range: Budget-Friendly to Moderate (£8-10 per cocktail)
Situated in an old bank building, McLarens is a neighbourhood favourite that combines the feel of a local with excellent cocktails. The seasonal cocktail list evolves regularly, ensuring there's always something new to try. Family and dog-friendly, with live sports and a great selection of Scottish produce, it's the kind of place where everyone feels welcome. The cocktail selection gets rave reviews for balancing quality with reasonable prices.
The Hermitage Bar
Price Range: Moderate (£9-11 per cocktail)
For a more contemporary vibe in Morningside, The Hermitage offers stylish décor and a selection of craft beers and cocktails. It's less about putting on a show and more about crafting quality drinks in a comfortable setting.
The Upmarket Experiences: When Only the Best Will Do
Bar Prince (The Balmoral Hotel)
Location: Princes Street
Price Range: Expensive (£14-20 per cocktail)
The Vibe: Five-star luxury
Located in one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable buildings, Bar Prince at The Balmoral is sleek and sultry with an impressive marble bar, golden accents, and oversized blue leather chairs. The signature 'La Vie En Rose' combines Bombay Sapphire gin, Chambord, lemon, hibiscus syrup, and champagne. Prices reflect the setting, but for a special occasion, the service and atmosphere are impeccable.
Bar 1819
Location: Old Town
Price Range: Expensive (£13-18 per cocktail)
The Vibe: 5-star hotel, Elegant and refined
This elegant cocktail lounge focuses on locally sourced ingredients and signature cocktails crafted with precision. The small plates menu pairs perfectly with the drinks for a complete upmarket experience.
Unique Concepts Worth Seeking Out
Lucky Liquor
Location: Central Edinburgh
Price Range: Moderate (£9-11 per cocktail)
The Concept: 13 bottles, 13 cocktails, 13 weeks
Bright and fun, open space selects thirteen bottles, creates thirteen cocktails with them, and runs the menu for thirteen weeks before changing everything. It's vinyl-only for music lovers, and you can even take cocktails to go in stylish packaging.
Mortal Kocktail
Location: Craigs Close, Cockburn St
Price Range: Moderate (£9-11 per cocktail)
The Concept: 90s arcade games and cocktails
With a vibrant and unique atmosphere in the heart of the old town, this 90s-inspired arcade bar is serving up a wide variety of cocktails, food, craft beers and of course arcade games. This small but lively establishment is fun and chilled out while delivering friendly service and great drinks.
Johnnie Walker Experience
Location: Princes St
Price Range: Expensive (£12-18 per cocktail)
The Concept: Not just whisky. Tours and food.
Interactive presentations and performances on your journey through the tastes of whisky. Chocolate and whisky pairings, Michelin-starred whisky and food pairings, and cocktails in the rooftop bar overlooking Edinburgh Castle, there is so much under one roof here. Bookings required for tours and food pairings, but the rooftop bar is open to all.
The Verdict
Edinburgh's cocktail scene offers something for every taste and budget. From the Victorian splendour, rooftop views and neighbourhood charm, this city knows how to shake things up. So prepare to discover why Edinburgh's cocktail culture rivals anywhere in the UK. Slàinte mhath, and as always, enjoy your stay!
