Best Bars and Pubs in Edinburgh Near 28 York Place
After a day of exploring Edinburgh’s cobbled streets, climbing hills, and dodging the occasional Scottish downpour, you’ve earned a drink. Whether you’re looking for a cosy traditional pub, pre-dinner cocktails, a laid-back wine bar or somewhere to settle in for the evening, there are plenty of fantastic spots just a short walk from 28 York Place.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite bars and pubs nearby, each offering something a little different. From grand Victorian drinking establishments to hidden speakeasies, here are our top recommendations.
Café Royal
📍19 West Register Street
Stepping into Café Royal feels like stepping back in time. This historic Edinburgh institution is famous for its beautifully preserved Victorian interiors, complete with stained glass, ornate tiling and polished brass details that make every visit feel a little more glamorous.
Alongside an extensive selection of Scottish whiskies, local beers and expertly poured pints, you’ll also find its renowned oyster bar. If you’re looking for a classic Edinburgh pub experience in the heart of the city, this is hard to beat.
The Cumberland Bar
📍1- 3 Cumberland Street
Tucked away in Edinburgh’s New Town, The Cumberland Bar is everything you’d hope for in a traditional neighbourhood pub.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent range of local ales, Scottish whiskies and hearty pub food, it’s loved by locals and visitors alike. On sunny days, its spacious beer garden is one of the best in the city—a rare Edinburgh treat.
The Guildford Arms
📍1 West Register Street
Just moments from Princes Street, The Guildford Arms is one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful historic pubs.
Its ornate Victorian interior is full of character, while the drinks menu boasts an impressive range of Scottish ales, whiskies and beers. Add in generous portions of classic pub favourites and you’ve got the perfect place to settle in after a day exploring the city.
Nightcap
📍3b York Place
Just around the corner from 28 York Place, Nightcap is ideal if cocktails are calling your name.
This stylish late-night bar serves expertly crafted drinks in a lively atmosphere, often accompanied by live music. Whether you’re starting your evening or ending it, Nightcap is a great choice for a fun night out without venturing far from the hotel.
Panda & Sons
📍79 Queen Street
Hidden behind what appears to be an old-fashioned barber shop lies one of Edinburgh’s most famous cocktail bars. Panda & Sons is a speakeasy-style venue serving inventive cocktails, carefully selected wines and craft beers in a beautifully atmospheric setting. Finding the secret entrance is all part of the experience.
Penny Black’s & Folly Spirits Lab
📍Leith Street
Spearheaded by proprietor Chris Miles, both Folly Spirit Labs and Penny Black are must visit bars.
Small but full of character, Penny Black is a relaxed bar serving Scottish drams, craft beers and plenty of local charm. There’s even a pool table if you’re feeling competitive.
Head downstairs to Folly Spirits Lab for something a little different, where you can sample the venue’s own handcrafted spirits in an intimate tasting space.
Pickles
📍60 Broughton Street
If wine is more your thing, Pickles is a must-visit.
This cosy wine bar specialises in carefully sourced wines paired with generous sharing platters of Scottish cheeses, charcuterie and seasonal produce. Warm, intimate and effortlessly welcoming, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed evening with good food, good wine and even better company.
Raise a Glass to Edinburgh
There’s something special about Edinburgh after dark. The same streets that feel historic and full of discovery during the day take on a new atmosphere as cosy pubs fill with conversation, cocktail bars come alive, and warm lights spill onto the city’s cobbled lanes.
Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly poured pint, a dram of Scottish whisky, a creative cocktail or a relaxed glass of wine, you’ll find plenty of fantastic places to unwind just moments from 28 York Place.
After a day exploring Scotland’s capital, there’s no better way to end the evening than discovering one of these local favourites before returning to the comfort of your room, ready to do it all again tomorrow.
