8 Great Places to Drink Cask Ales in Edinburgh

By Captain Kurt Food & Beer Travel Tips February 4, 2025

Cask Ales Paired with Historic Charm

Edinburgh's Top Spots for Cask Ales

Edinburgh, with its cobbled streets, historic charm, and vibrant pub culture, is a haven for beer enthusiasts. The city offers a fantastic selection of venues to sample cask ales, a quintessential British beer experience that highlights the art of traditional brewing. If you're planning to explore Edinburgh’s cask ale scene, here are eight must-visit pubs where you can savor these expertly crafted brews.

1. The Bow Bar

Nestled on West Bow, The Bow Bar is a gem in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Renowned for its ever-changing selection of cask ales, this no-frills pub focuses on quality over gimmicks. The staff are knowledgeable and always ready to recommend a pint to suit your taste. With its relaxed atmosphere and an extensive whisky collection as a bonus, The Bow Bar is a staple for beer lovers.

2. The Barony

A classic Victorian pub located in the New Town, The Barony is beloved for its warm ambiance and impressive range of cask ales. With beautiful wood paneling and traditional decor, it feels like stepping back in time. The pub frequently features ales from Scottish breweries, offering a fantastic opportunity to sample local craftsmanship.

3. The Guildford Arms

Situated just a stone’s throw from Princes Street, The Guildford Arms is an iconic pub with stunning Edwardian architecture. Its grand interior, complete with stained glass and a beautiful ceiling, is matched by a superb selection of cask ales. Expect a mix of local Scottish brews and guest ales from around the UK.

4. The Wally Dug

Tucked away in the New Town, The Wally Dug is a quirky and characterful pub that is a must-visit for cask ale enthusiasts. This intimate venue offers a great selection of local and guest ales, served in a cozy setting with vintage decor and a friendly vibe. It’s a
fantastic spot for both beer aficionados and casual visitors looking to enjoy a pint in a relaxed environment.

5. The Abbotsford

Another New Town favorite, The Abbotsford is famed for its ornate Victorian interior and central island bar. This pub offers a carefully curated selection of cask ales, often showcasing unique finds alongside popular staples. The friendly staff and elegant setting make it a perfect spot to unwind with a pint.

6. Kay’s Bar

Tucked away on Jamaica Street, Kay’s Bar is a cozy, traditional pub that feels like a hidden treasure. Its intimate atmosphere, complete with a roaring fire in winter, pairs perfectly with a pint of cask ale. The rotating ale selection ensures there’s always something fresh to try.

7. Cloisters Bar

Housed in a former church, Cloisters Bar offers a unique setting to enjoy some of the best cask ales in the city. Located near the University of Edinburgh, this pub frequently features brews from local microbreweries and is a great spot to discover innovative takes on classic styles.

8. The Halfway House

As Edinburgh’s smallest pub, The Halfway House delivers a big experience despite its size. Located on a steep staircase between Waverley Station and the Royal Mile, it’s a snug and welcoming spot to enjoy a pint. Their cask ale lineup often includes lesser-known gems from Scottish brewers.

A City for Beer Lovers

Edinburgh’s rich beer culture is evident in these exceptional venues, where the craft of brewing is celebrated and enjoyed. Whether you’re a cask ale aficionado or new to the style, these pubs promise an authentic and memorable experience. Raise a pint and toast to Edinburgh, a city where history and hops come together beautifully.

There’s no better way to experience Scotland’s legendary beer culture than by visiting the pubs, breweries, and hidden gems that locals love—and that’s exactly what we do on our Heart of Scotland Epic Beer Trip.

Join the Adventure!

Join us for an unforgettable journey through historic Edinburgh, scenic countryside breweries, and exclusive meet-the-brewer events that most travelers never get to experience. You’ll sip world-class cask ales, explore iconic pubs, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow Beer Trippers—all without the hassle of planning.

Want a sneak peek? Check out our trip details, agenda, and photos from past adventures!

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