PUB.
Edinburgh knows how to do a good pub. Think crackling fires, cosy snugs and a pint poured by someone who actually cares about it. These are the locals' locals we love sending our guests to, whether you're after a Scottish ale, a wee dram or simply a corner table and good company. Hand-picked by the Calton Living team.
The Stockbridge Tap
The beloved Raeburn Place corner pub has proper pub soul with an outdoor terrace to enjoy a pint in the sunshine. The blackboard of ever-changing independent craft beers and real ales features breweries like Stewart Brewing, Swannay and Arbor Ales. The Stockbridge Tap offers elevated pub snacks and was named CAMRA Edinburgh Pub of the Year in 2025. This pub is the perfect pit-stop on The Water of Leith path.
The Queens Arms
Hidden below the cobbles of Fredrick Street, this tradition pub sits between George Street and Queen Street. Red leather armchairs, walls lined with vintage novels and snug styled seating located in the heart of the city. It won the best gastropub in 2010 at the DRAM awards.
Barony
Step inside and the Barony feels like a pub that’s been quietly perfecting itself for well over a century. Impressive tiling, stained wood and detailed cornices across the pub. This pub is cosy and characterful, a spot where a friendly crowd of all ages tend to go. This is a Broughton Street essential, live music on a Friday and Saturday night.
Teuchters
Tucked into Edinburgh’s West End, Teuchters is a proper Scottish local pub. Two cosy but deceptively roomy bars have a rustic feel, with wooden beams, original stone walls and chunky sofas. Whiskey is the star of the show as Teuchters, with an impressive range of single malts. Downstairs in the Bunker, there are TV’s for sports events, particularly rugby.
The Vincent
Known to locals as “The Vinnie”, this is. a friendly snug local in the basement of a Georgina Townhouse. It’s located on the cobbled street where Stockbridge meets New Town. The drinks list covers every mood, rotating cask ales, craft beers, cocktails and an ever-changing “hair of the dog” special. The organic food menu includes vegetarian and vegan options.
The Guildford Arms
Just off the east end of Princes Street, this is one of Edinburgh’s classic old pubs, with much of it’s victorian character. The high ceilings, cornices and window arches. Upstairs, a snug gallery restaurant with modern decor gives a dress circle view of the main bar below.