Edinburgh has embraced the speakeasy trend with enthusiasm. Behind vintage shopfronts, down medieval closes, and through secret doors, you'll find some of the UK's best cocktail bars. Here's how to find them.
Speakeasies & Secret Bars
Panda & Sons
79 Queen Street, New Town
How to find it: Look for the vintage barbershop - push through the bookcase door
Prohibition-era speakeasy with leather booths and craft cocktails
The Devil's Advocate
9 Advocates Close, Royal Mile
How to find it: Down a narrow close off the Royal Mile - look for the red sign
Atmospheric whisky bar in a former pump house with exposed stone walls
Hoot the Redeemer
7 Hanover Street, New Town
How to find it: Basement bar - ring the doorbell marked with an owl
Tropical tiki bar with owl-themed decor and creative drinks
Lucky Liquor Co
39a Queen Street, New Town
How to find it: Unmarked door - look for playing card symbols
Underground bar with exposed brick and dim lighting
Hidden Historic Pubs
The Bow Bar
80 West Bow, Old Town
Not hidden but easy to miss. One of Edinburgh's best whisky pubs with over 400 malts. No TV, no music - just good conversation.
Specialty: Whisky selection
The Café Royal Circle Bar
19 West Register Street
Victorian splendour hidden in plain sight. Stunning tiled interior, ornate ceiling, and one of Edinburgh's most beautiful bar rooms.
Specialty: Oysters and champagne
Sheep Heid Inn
43-45 The Causeway, Duddingston
Scotland's oldest pub (1360) tucked away in Duddingston village. Historic skittles alley in the back garden.
Specialty: Traditional pub food, history
More Cocktail Bars
Bramble
16A Queen Street (basement)
Dimly lit basement bar consistently ranked among the UK's best cocktail bars
The Voodoo Rooms
19a West Register Street
Opulent Victorian ballroom with live music and expertly crafted cocktails
Nightcap
2-8 Broughton Street
Late-night cocktail bar perfect for after-dinner drinks until 3am
Insider Tips
- 🍸Most speakeasies don't take reservations - arrive before 9pm for the best chance of seats
- 🍸Dress code is smart casual - no sportswear
- 🍸Many hidden bars are cash-preferred, though most accept cards
- 🍸Ask bartenders for recommendations - they love showcasing their skills
- 🍸Weekday evenings are less crowded than weekends
- 🍸Some bars close on Sundays - check opening hours