Edinburgh Pub Guide: Biddy Mulligans

Biddy Mulligans

Biddy Mulligans is, as the name suggests, an Irish theme pub. It is also the most easterly of the six attractive pubs that are arrayed along the north side of Edinburgh's Grassmarket.

The Whole Building Rear Area

Inside you find a large main room panelled in dark wood with another room beyond that is quieter at busy times. The island bar occupies the centre of the main room. The Irish theming is applied fairly lightly and apart from the Guinness promotions and the Irish sport on the TV, it's sometimes hard to remember you aren't in any of Edinburgh's many other Gothic pubs interiors, which is by no means a criticism.

Pub Sign

Biddy Mulligans can be very busy at times. Very popular with students during term time, its location on Grassmarket also puts it firmly on the tourist trail, and it also features on established circuits for stag and hen parties.

There are no real ales available, though many other drinks, both hot and cold, certainly are, as is food. Live Irish and folk music is often featured, and the pub can cater for parties of up to 45 people.

There are a number of "Biddy Mulligan" pubs in various places around the world. The origin of the name is a character, a Dublin widow, created by Irish comedian and music hall singer Jimmy O'Dea in the 1930s and 1940s. She is perhaps best remembered for featuring in the song Biddy Mulligan the Pride of the Coombe.

The Bar in Biddy Mulligans