Edinburgh is well known for its thriving pub and bar culture, which features a variety of locations ranging from hip cocktail bars to traditional taverns. Like every well-known tourist spot, there are a few places that might fall short of expectations. You may wish to steer clear of the following kinds of bars and pubs in Edinburgh:
Overpriced Tourist Traps:
In Edinburgh’s tourist-heavy neighborhoods, especially near the Royal Mile and Princes Street, there are a few restaurants and pubs that are notorious for charging exorbitant fees. These places could be convenient and in a good location, but their meal and drink prices are frequently much higher than those in other parts of the city. Furthermore, the high pricing could not be justified by the quality of the offers. Additionally, these locations may get congested, particularly during the busiest travel times, which detracts from the fun.
Chain Pubs Lacking Local Character:
Although chain pubs have their place, some tourists may choose to go for more genuine, neighborhood encounters while in Edinburgh. Some of the city’s chain pubs and restaurants are generic and don’t have the same personality or charm as Edinburgh’s individually run bars. These establishments lack the distinct atmosphere that distinguishes Edinburgh’s pub scene and frequently have the same menu, design, and ambiance as other comparable bars in the UK.
Bars with Unfavorable Reviews:
It’s a good idea to read reviews before going to a pub or bar because some places have received bad press for things like dirty facilities, bad service, and subpar food and beverages and extremely rude bar staff. It is advisable to exercise caution when visiting pubs that have a history of negative reviews on websites such as Google or TripAdvisor.
Establishments that are Declining or Outdated:
It’s possible that some pubs in Edinburgh, especially those away from the main tourist attractions, have seen better days. These locations may be lacking in investment, which leaves the ambiance worn out and dilapidated. There are instances where the reduction in quality also affects the provision of products and services.
In conclusion, even if Edinburgh has a great variety of bars and pubs, picking your spots carefully can help guarantee a better experience. To experience the genuine essence of Edinburgh’s drinking scene, choose independently owned, well-reviewed venues; steer clear of pricey, cookie-cutter, or shoddy establishments. In this article, we will give you our list of pubs and bars you should avoid when visiting Edinburgh.
If you would like to know what you should do and see in Edinburgh click here go to our post where you will receive the best information and some of our recommendations.
The Globe Bar in Edinburgh Scotland
Due to its proximity to the busy Cowgate district, the well-known Globe Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland, mostly draws a younger clientele, such as backpackers and students. There are a few reasons why some guests would wish to avoid this pub, even thought it is centrally located.
Crowded and Noisy Environment:
The Globe Bar is frequently crowded, particularly on the weekends and at big sporting occasions. Due to the bar’s popularity with visitors and students, it can get extremely busy, making it challenging to find a place to sit or even stand comfortably. For those seeking a more laid-back evening out or a conversation, the noise level can also be rather high, with loud music and shouting.
Essential Facilities:
For catering to students and backpackers, we have found that the drink prices in this bar are the same or higher then most others in the area. The décor isn’t as distinctive or charming as many other pubs in Edinburgh; it’s somewhat plain and old looking. Another drawback is the toilets, which are frequently criticized for being antiquated, tiny, and poorly maintained. We found them to be extremely smelly with no toilet paper, soap and with urine all over the floor and looks like they are never cleaned.
Tourist-Focused Atmosphere:
The Globe Bar occasionally misses the genuine Scottish pub atmosphere that many tourists visiting Edinburgh desire because of its emphasis on serving a transient, tourist-heavy population. Some people may find the focus on sports screens, and themed evenings appealing, but others who are hoping for a more conventional or comfortable pub setting will definitely not be satisfied with this bar.
Last Words:
We rank this bar as the worst bar in central Edinburgh and one that should be avoided at all costs. We have found the drinks to be way overpriced especially for catering to students and backpackers. In addition, the bar and toilets’ are smelly, dirty and disgusting and looks like they are never cleaned. Finally, in all the bars we have been to in Edinburgh the bar staff here are extremely rude and we have heard racist comments towards customers and also read this on comments about this bar. After making their comments they laugh and think what they are saying is cool. These bar staff seem to forget that people are their to spend money in their bar and not put up with staff being verbally abusive.
This is keeping in mind that this bar is located off the Royal Mile and most of their customers are foreigners, so we have found this to be a reason we would never go back and not recommend this bar to any person visiting or living in Edinburgh.
There are plenty of alternative pubs in Edinburgh that provide a better experience if you’re searching for something more genuine, laid-back, less packed and more friendly and not abusive staff.
Subway Cowgate in Edinburgh, Scotland
Nestled in Edinburgh’s buzzing Cowgate district, Subway Cowgate is a well-liked nightclub that mostly serves young travelers and students. Although it may be appealing to those searching for an inexpensive night out, there are a few reasons why some people might want to stay away from this location.
Long Wait Times and Crowding:
Cowgate Subway is frequently crowded, particularly on weekends and on student nights. Due to the club’s appeal with younger patrons, especially on peak nights, it can get quite crowded and have lengthy lines to enter. Once inside, it may be challenging to move about and have a comfortable evening due to the busy dance floor and bar area.
Simple Décor and Ambience:
The club’s interior has a utilitarian vibe, minimal design, and is pretty plain. Its emphasis on price may have made this predictable, but the whole experience can be hampered by the lack of ambience. The lackluster music and lighting systems further add to the bland nightclub atmosphere, which is unremarkable in a city renowned for its diverse nightlife offerings.
Concerns with Maintenance and Hygiene:
Those who are expecting a better-maintained venue will definitely find it off-putting as some customers have complained about how dirty and disgusting the facilities and toilets are at Subway Cowgate. We found that this could quite easily be the toilet scene out of the first Trainspotting movie.
Limited Attractiveness to Non-Students:
While students and tourists on a tight budget may find Subway Cowgate’s may find the drinks to be expensive. Due to its emphasis on serving a youthful, student population, the club might not have the same diversity and inclusiveness as other Edinburgh events.
In conclusion, Subway Cowgate might be a good choice for a certain group of people, but it’s important to think about if its shortcomings—such as crowded conditions, rudimentary décor, and unclean conditions—match your expectations for an enjoyable evening in Edinburgh. We do not recommend this bar for a night out.
Halfway House Free House Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland
A tiny, classic tavern called the Halfway House Free House Bar may be found in Edinburgh, Scotland, in Fleshmarket Close, one of the city’s numerous winding, narrow lanes. There are a couple of reasons why some guests might decide not to visit this specific location, despite the fact that it has a certain charm and appeals to those seeking a genuine Scottish pub experience.
Restricted Comfort and Space:
The size of the Halfway House is one of its biggest flaws. There isn’t much space for standing or seating at the tiny bar. It can get crowded and uncomfortable on busy days, particularly in the evenings or during the tourist season, making it hard to find a spot to sit or to move around. This little location can be disconcerting, particularly if you’re hoping for a roomier, more laid-back setting to have a drink.
Unreliable Service:
Although some customers have commended the Halfway House for its amiable staff, others have had less favorable experiences. Due to the bar’s tiny size and tendency to get packed, some patrons may experience delayed service and feel hurried or ignored. This inconsistent service can take away from the entire experience, particularly if you’re hoping for the kind warmth that many pubs in Edinburgh are renowned for. When we went to this pub we found the staff to be quite rude, slow and and not interested in serving you and would rather you left then be in the pub.
Essential Facilities:
The Halfway House is a simple place that may not be to everyone’s taste. The conventional and straightforward décor may be endearing, but it might not be enough for people seeking a more contemporary or distinctive pub environment. Furthermore, the basic facilities—including the bathrooms—can get crowded or dirty during busy hours.
Overcrowding of Tourists:
The Halfway House, a tavern in the center of Edinburgh’s Old Town, frequently draws a sizable number of visitors. While this may not always be a bad thing, it may result in a less genuine experience for visitors hoping to get away from the busier areas of the city or interact with residents.
In conclusion, even if the Halfway House Free House Bar provides advantages, not everyone should choose it. If you prefer a more roomy, comfortable, and reliable pub experience, it could be worth investigating other options due to the restricted area, inconsistent service, and inadequate amenities.
The Royal Mile Tavern in Edinburgh, Scotland
A tavern called The Royal Mile Tavern is located in one of Edinburgh, Scotland’s most well-known and historic neighborhoods. Although its Royal Mile location may appear desirable, especially to tourists, there are a few reasons why some guests would want to stay away from this place.
Tourist Trap Atmosphere:
The Royal Mile Tavern is frequently criticized for being primarily tourist-oriented. This frequently translates into more costs and a less authentic, more mass-market experience than what people want for when they visit a typical Scottish pub. The emphasis on pleasing visitors may lead to a commercialized ambiance that lacks the authentic spirit of Edinburgh’s pub culture and a lack of local character.
Overcrowding:
The bar frequently gets very packed because of its prominent location on the Royal Mile, especially during the busiest travel seasons and festival times. This may result in a crowded, disorderly space where it’s challenging to find a seat, unwind, or strike up a conversation. Longer wait times for service may result from the crowding, which may lessen your overall enjoyment of the place.
Variations in the Quality of Food and Drink:
Several customers have complained that the expensive food and beverage costs are not justified by the great quality of the food and drinks, with some meals occasionally coming cold or flavorless. In a similar vein, the assortment of spirits and beers might not be as wide or carefully chosen as in other pubs in Edinburgh.
Problems with Services:
The Royal Mile Tavern’s service isn’t always consistent. We found the staff to give slower service and are less attentive at this bar. This can be annoying, While our visit, we had an Asian woman in our group and the bar staff were extremely rude to her and made a racist comment when she went up for a round of drinks, so we left the bar to find a better alternative. It is unfortunate that bars like the Royal Mile Tavern and Globe Bar, which are on the Royal Mile or just off treat foreigners this way in their bar when they are there to spend money and the majority of their clientele are people in the bar are foreigners and do not deserve to be treated in a disrespectful way and it only gives the bar and Edinburgh a bad name.
Better Alternatives Nearby:
There are many of great pubs in Edinburgh, some of which are conveniently located on the Royal Mile and provide a more genuine and pleasant experience. For a more authentic sense of Edinburgh’s pub culture, considering the shortcomings of The Royal Mile Tavern, it would be worthwhile to check out some of the less-visited areas of the city.
In conclusion, although though The Royal Mile Tavern might appear handy, there are definitely better options for people hoping to experience a genuine Edinburgh pub scene like the Mitre Bar next door, which is highly recommended by us.
The Canons’ Gait Pub in Edinburgh, Scotland
Situated on Edinburgh’s famed Royal Mile, a well-liked destination for both locals and visitors, is the Canons’ Gait Pub. This specific restaurant may not be the first choice for certain travelers, even with its good location.
Tourist-Focused Ambience:
The Canons’ Gait, like many other pubs on the Royal Mile, caters mostly to tourists. This emphasis may lead to a less traditional Scottish pub experience and a more marketed atmosphere. The focus on drawing tourists frequently results in increased costs for food and beverages that may not be commensurate with the quality provided. In terms of character and authenticity, The Canons’ Gait may not meet your expectations if you’re searching for a true local experience.
Noise and Crowding:
The Canons’ Gait is a popular tourist destination, therefore it gets congested at times, especially in the summer and during festivals. The bar can get noisy and chaotic due to the large number of patrons, which makes it challenging to have a calm drink or hold a conversation. For individuals wishing for a more laid-back experience, crowding can also result in lengthier wait times for service and trouble finding a seat.
Variations in the Quality of Food and Drink:
There have been complaints from certain customers over The Canons’ Gait’s variable meal and drink quality. The bar serves a variety of Scottish meals and local ales, but the food isn’t always well-executed. Sometimes, dishes arrive cold or without the flavor and freshness that one would anticipate for the price. In a similar vein, albeit respectable, the drink menu may not be particularly noteworthy when compared to other local bars.
Service Difficulties:
The caliber of service is another frequent worry. Staff overload during busy periods can result in less personalized attention and slower service. This may take away from the overall fun, particularly if you were hoping for the kind and inviting atmosphere that is usually associated with Scottish pubs.
Better Alternatives in the Area:
There are plenty of pubs in Edinburgh that have more genuine vibes, better service, and higher standards of quality. We recommend The Mitre just up the road if you are looking for a fantastic Scottish experience with good staff and pub environment on the Royal Mile.
In conclusion, The Canons’ Gait Pub offers its share of attractions, but for those looking for a true Edinburgh pub experience, it may not be the best option due to its touristy focus, crowded interior, uneven quality, and very poor service.
The Spey Lounge Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland
Some locals and tourists may find the modest, unpretentious Spey Lounge Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland, appealing due to its simplicity. But there are a few reasons not to visit this bar, particularly if you want a more pleasurable or memorable time when visiting the city.
Uninspired Atmosphere:
The Spey Lounge Bar is not known for having the warm atmosphere that many people look for in a traditional Scottish pub because of its very simple and out-of-date design. If you compare the experience to the lively and historic pubs Edinburgh is known for, you may find it lacking in character and charm. The Spey Lounge might not live up to your expectations whether you’re looking for a fun atmosphere or a comfortable place to unwind.
Limited Drink Selection:
The bar serves a limited selection of conventional lagers, spirits, and a few popular Scottish whiskies, making its drink menu somewhat simple. Should you be a sophisticated cocktail enthusiast or seeking something distinctive from the area, you may find the selection to be unsatisfactory. Other bars in Edinburgh provide a wider variety of whiskies that highlight Scotland’s rich distilling history in addition to large assortments of craft brews and regional ales.
Unreliable Service:
The Spey Lounge’s service isn’t always great; some customers have complained about unresponsive or uncaring staff. This discrepancy might take away from the whole experience, particularly because a visit to a Scottish bar is usually enhanced by the engaging and courteous service. If a kind greeting and attentive service are what you’re looking for, you may want to explore elsewhere.
Customers and Ambience:
Regular local customers frequent the pub, which occasionally gives strangers the impression that it is exclusive or unwelcoming. It could be challenging for guests to get comfortable or to enjoy their stay to the fullest because of this.
Superior Substitutes in the Area:
There are several great pubs in Edinburgh, each with its own distinct personality and charm. You may want to look at other options in the city for a more memorable experience, such places with better drink offerings, livelier ambiances, and better service.
In summary, with its uninspired décor, small drink selection, and erratic service, Edinburgh’s The Spey Lounge Bar might not provide the most delightful or stimulating experience. Explore one of the many other pubs in the city for a more fulfilling visit that better encapsulates Edinburgh’s lively pub culture.
The Marksman Pub in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Marksman Pub in Edinburgh, Scotland, is among those places that might not be the greatest option for tourists hoping to take advantage of the well-known pub culture in the city. There are a few reasons why you should think twice before visiting this specific location, even though it can be a local hangout for some people.
Negative Ambience:
The Marksman Pub’s décor is known for being exceedingly drab and boring. It lacks the homey, pleasant atmosphere that many traditional Scottish pubs provide, and the decor is simple. The whole atmosphere can feel a little gloomy. The Marksman might not live up to the rich atmosphere that tourists seeking to experience in Edinburgh’s medieval pubs hope to find.
Restricted Selection of Drinks:
The pub’s drink menu is rather short, consisting mostly of basic spirits, regular lagers, and a small assortment of whiskies. You’ll probably be dissatisfied with the selection of artisan beers, ales, and good whiskies that Scotland has to offer if that’s your goal. Numerous additional bars in Edinburgh have large drink menus that highlight regional and local specialties.
Unreliable Service:
The Marksman’s service has been known to be hit or miss; some customers have complained about rude or inattentive employees. This might take away from the whole experience, particularly if a memorable night out depends in large part on excellent service. For those used to the friendly, inviting atmosphere that characterizes many other Scottish pubs, the service here might fall short of their expectations.
Client Issues:
The pub has a reputation for drawing in a particular type of local clientele, which occasionally makes it feel uncomfortable for visitors or outsiders. For guests, especially those seeking a more welcoming atmosphere, this may make it challenging for them to relax and have a good time.
Superior Substitutes In the Area:
Edinburgh is full of pubs that provide a more genuine and fun atmosphere. There are lots of other places with nicer ambiance, more drinks, and more consistent service for people who want to really immerse themselves in the lively pub culture of the city.
In conclusion, travellers hoping to experience Edinburgh’s renowned pub scene might not have the best time at The Marksman Pub. There are other local pubs that offer a more memorable and fulfilling experience, so it’s worth checking them out given its drab environment, restricted drink selection, and erratic service.
The Mash Tun Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland
Although it’s a popular location, not every visitor will find the Mash Tun Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland, to be the ideal option. There are a few things to take into account that can cause you to reconsider going there.
Average Ambience:
The atmosphere of The Mash Tun Bar is one of the main issues. The décor lacks the personality and charm that many people look for in a Scottish pub; it is somewhat generic. For those seeking a warm, traditional, and authentic experience, The Mash Tun might not meet their expectations. The atmosphere frequently has the feel of a generic bar rather than something that truly embodies Edinburgh’s distinct character.
Restricted Choice of Drinks:
While The Mash Tun does provide a variety of cocktails, it’s not quite as wide or varied as many other Edinburgh bars. There’s a decent assortment of craft brews and local whiskies, although regular beers and spirits are usually the main attraction here and expensive compared to other pub options in the area. There might be a more interesting selection of selections at other bars in the city for individuals who want to delve deeper into Scotland’s well-known drink culture.
Variations in Food Quality:
The unevenness in the food’s quality is another cause for concern. Although the tavern serves conventional pub fare, the quality is not great. The food can be hit or miss, according to some customers, with some dishes lacking the care and flavor you might anticipate from a quality pub lunch.
Conflicting Service Reviews:
Reviews of The Mash Tun’s service have been varied. Some guests have commented and complained about delayed or unresponsive service. In a city such as Edinburgh, where good hospitality is a given, inconsistent service can be a problem.
Crowded and Noisy Environment:
Lastly, The Mash Tun may get busy and boisterous, especially on the weekends and during big sporting events. This can make it challenging to unwind and have fun, particularly if you’re hoping for a more casual and private atmosphere.
In summary, The Mash Tun Bar might not be the greatest choice for tourists hoping to take in the finest of Edinburgh’s pub culture. There are lots of other bars in the city that might provide a more fulfilling experience, but this one has a terrible environment, a small range of drinks, unpredictable food quality, and inconsistent service.
George IV Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland
Though the George IV Bar, situated on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, is a well-liked tourist attraction, there are a few reasons to steer clear of it if you’re searching for a more fulfilling pub experience.
Tourist-Oriented Ambience:
The George IV Bar’s primary flaw is its very expensive drink prices, slow service and not friendly staff. Comparing it to some the traditional pubs in Edinburgh’s, the bar may feel more commercialized. The atmosphere, which caters to a general audience, sometimes lack the genuine Scottish charm and character that many visitors want.
Expensive Menu:
The George IV Bar’s pricing are typically more than usual because of its prominent position in a popular tourist neighborhood. Food and beverages are frequently priced over average, which might be discouraging considering the quality provided. Instead of paying extra for great food or drinks, visitors might discover that they are paying more for the venue.
Poor Food Quality:
The George IV Bar’s cuisine is frequently criticized for being mediocre and uninspired. The menu features standard pub fare, but it’s not always executed well; many meals don’t have the flavor and freshness that one would anticipate for the price. There might be better options at other pubs in Edinburgh if you’re looking for a memorable lunch.
Unreliable Service:
The George IV Bar’s service isn’t always consistent. A few customers have complained about being ignored or getting poor treatment, which can ruin the whole experience.
Communal Setting:
The bar is usually busy because of its location just off the Royal Mile, especially in the summer when tourists are visiting. This may result in a busy and boisterous atmosphere that makes it challenging to unwind and have fun. Extended wait times for seating and service may also result from the congested environment.
Superior Substitutes:
Edinburgh has a great selection of pubs with better food, more authentic atmospheres, and more affordable prices. Looking at alternative options could result in a more pleasurable and genuine Scottish pub experience.
In conclusion, the George IV Bar is easily accessible due to its Royal Mile location; yet, compared to other pubs in Edinburgh, it may not be as tempting due to its tourist-centric focus, expensive menu, average food quality, rude staff, inconsistent service, and busy atmosphere.
Pilgrim Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland
Situated on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Pilgrim Bar is a popular hangout for both locals and visitors. If, however, you’re looking for a more pleasurable pub experience, there are a few reasons you might want to think again about going there.
Expensive Offerings:
The Pilgrim Bar has a reputation for charging more for meals and drinks because of its great location on the Royal Mile. Even if the location’s convenience may be alluring, you frequently have to pay more for it. Disappointment may result if the price does not correspond with the caliber of the products.
Poor Food Quality:
Many customers have found the food at the Pilgrim Bar to be, at most, average, despite the restaurant receiving mixed reviews. The menu offers standard pub fare, but it’s not always executed well; certain meals aren’t flavourful or fresh. This can be especially annoying if you’re trying to find a filling dinner.
Unreliable Service:
There have been complaints of both slow and unresponsive service at the Pilgrim Bar. The bar can get very full in the evenings and on weekends, which can result in lengthier waits and less attentive service. This may have a major effect on how you experience everything.
Tourist-Oriented Ambience:
The Pilgrim Bar occasionally feels less genuine due to its emphasis on drawing tourists. It might not have the same old-world Scottish character as other pubs in Edinburgh. It could not offer a true local experience, but rather appeal more to a passing throng.
Packed and Cacophonous:
The Pilgrim Bar can get busy and boisterous due to its placement on a popular tourist route, especially during the busiest travel seasons. This may make it challenging to locate a cozy area where you can unwind and have fun.
Better Alternatives:
There are lots of pubs in Edinburgh that have a more genuine feel, greater value, and better food and service. Investigating these options could result in a more delightful and memorable encounter.
In conclusion, the Pilgrim Bar’s Royal Mile location makes it convenient, but its pricey menu, poor food quality, erratic service, tourist-only vibe, and packed atmosphere may make it less desirable than other Edinburgh bars.
