The Best Pubs and Bars in Edinburgh

A Winter Guide to the City’s Cosy and Festive Hideaways

Winter fills Edinburgh with a sense of romance and quiet charm. As the evenings draw in and the city glows with warm light and festive colour, its pubs and bars become inviting hideaways filled with character, comfort, and heritage. These winter spaces offer a gentle calm that makes the colder months feel special.

Below is a curated guide to the most beautiful and atmospheric winter spots in the city, chosen for their character, craftsmanship, and the sense of welcome they offer.

Panda and Sons

The world’s number one bar

Edinburgh earned global recognition this year when Panda and Sons was named the number one bar in the world by the Top 500 Bars ranking. The news was widely celebrated across Scotland and highlighted the bar’s remarkable creativity and charm.

As reported by The Scotsman, “Panda and Sons is the brainchild of famed Scottish bartender Iain McPherson. It is a table service cocktail bar that is all about friendly Scottish service in an intimate and cosy surrounding.” LINK HERE

Hidden behind a barbershop style entrance, Panda and Sons blends playful design with refined cocktails. The winter season enhances its atmosphere even further. Soft light, deep colours, and beautifully crafted drinks create an intimate setting that feels perfect for a cold evening in the city.

The Sheep Heid Inn

A classic winter retreat in Duddingston

The Sheep Heid Inn is one of Scotland’s oldest establishments and feels designed for winter. Dating back to 1360, wooden interiors, open fires, and a rich sense of history create an inviting retreat after a walk through Holyrood Park. Its charm lies in its authenticity and the calm atmosphere that fills its many corners on a winter night.

The Cumberland Bar

A New Town favourite with timeless character

Nestled among the Georgian streets of the New Town, The Cumberland Bar offers refined simplicity. Its warm interior and relaxed layout make it a natural winter choice for those seeking elegant surroundings without formality. It is a place that feels familiar even on a first visit.

The Last Word

Stockbridge charm in candlelight

The Last Word captures the quiet winter magic of Stockbridge. Soft candlelight, deep colours, and an intimate space create a setting that feels perfectly suited to the season. It is ideal for a slower evening after exploring the independent shops and cobbled streets of the neighbourhood.

The Dome

Edinburgh’s most iconic winter experience

The Dome on George Street is one of Edinburgh’s most photographed and celebrated winter destinations. Its grand entrance, seasonal decorations, and elegant interiors create an atmosphere that feels truly special at this time of year. The bar areas glow with warm light, polished wood, and timeless detailing, offering an experience that is both festive and refined.

Although loved by visitors, The Dome remains an essential part of the city’s winter character. It is a place that captures the joy and tradition of the season and offers a beautiful setting for a cosy drink in the heart of Edinburgh.

The Devil’s Advocate

Warm stone and dramatic winter ambience

Located in a Victorian pump house just steps from the Royal Mile, The Devil’s Advocate is one of the most visually striking bars in the city. Stone walls, atmospheric lighting, and a mezzanine level create a warm and dramatic setting, especially in winter. It blends heritage architecture with a vibrant energy.

The Bon Vivant

Elegant and softly lit for winter evenings

The Bon Vivant on Thistle Street is known for its understated sophistication. During winter, its candlelit setting feels particularly beautiful. It is a perfect choice for an intimate seasonal drink or a quiet celebration.

Final insight

Edinburgh’s winter pubs and bars offer something deeply special. Each presents a blend of heritage, warmth, craftsmanship, and gentle atmosphere that becomes even more inviting in the colder months. With Panda and Sons now recognised as the number one bar in the world, the city continues to shine on the global stage while still offering intimate and comforting places for residents to enjoy.

These are the spaces that capture the heart of Edinburgh in winter. They define the character of the city and enhance the experience of living here throughout the season.

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