Edinburgh Pub Guide: The Albanach

The Albanach

Tha Albanach occuies a key plocation in Edinburgh's Old Town, where Cockburn Street joins the Royal Mile. Nearby Flashmarket Close leads down steeply to Waverley Station, while nearly opposite you can wander past the Tron and into Hunter Square.

Pub Sign Seen Across the Royal Mile

The Albanach used to be called the EH1 Cafe Bar, presumably named after the first half of its postcode. The change to The Albanach is clearly designed to play to the sense of heritage that comes with a Gaelic name: Albanach translates as Scottish.

Interior from the Front Door

Interior from the Rear

The Gaelic theme is carried through to the bold lettering vertically up the corner of the pub: bàr uisge-beatha. This translates as water of life and is the generally accepted origin of the word whisky.

Inside you find a bright and clean establishment with plenty of tables and seating, all in a light wood that complements the light wood of the floor.

Address: 197 High Street, EH1 1PE
Telephone: 0131 220 5277
Opening hours, normal: 11.00am to 11.00pm
Opening hours, Saturday & Sunday: 10.00am to 1.00am
Real ales: Deuchars IPA plus 2 guests
Whisky choice: A huge selection of malt whiskies is available
Cocktails: No
Hot drinks: Tea, coffees, hot choclate
Food: Freshly made food with a Scottish flavour
Food service times: 12.00 noon to 9.00pm Monday through Friday and from 10.00am to 9.00pm on Saturday and Sunday
Music: Background music
Policy on children's access: No children's license
Disabled access: This is an old style pub so disabled access is not good
Clientele: A broad range including 25+ and tourists
Outdoor seating: Tables on Royal Mile during the summer months
Other attractions: Occasional live bands
If there is anything above that needs updating, please let us know.