Edinburgh Pub Guide: Holyrood Tavern

Holyrood Tavern

Holyrood Tavern lies at the west end of Holyrood Road, where it meets St Mary's Street. In days of old this would have placed it just outside Edinburgh's town walls: and traces of them can still be seen on the opposite side of St Mary's Street nearby.

Its location also puts it just off the trail of pubs down the Royal Mile, and a little removed from the clubs and late night activity of Cowgate, to the west. This tends to make it popular with students and locals rather than on any main tourist route.

Interior Interior from the Front Door

Inside an exterior that can seem a little dowdy (especially when covered with Edinburgh Fringe posters as in the header photo) you find a roomy and comfortable pub, proud of the fact that it is a pub and not a theme bar. The main bar extends seemingly forever through to a room used for live music at the rear of the Holyrood Tavern, while side rooms add to the variety of spaces on offer.

Pub Sign

Address: 9a Holyrood Road, EH8 8AE
Telephone: 0131 556 5044
Opening hours, normal: 12.00 midday to 1.00am
Opening hours, Sunday: 12.30pm to 1.00am
Real ales: Caledonian Deuchars IPA & 80/-; 2 guest beers
Whisky choice: A large range of malt whiskies is available
Cocktails: No
Hot drinks: Tea and coffee
Food: Vegan food is served
Food service times: Friday from 6.00pm to 10.00pm, Saturday from 8.00pm to 10.00pm and Sunday from 1.00pm to 5.00pm
Music: Plays the best rock music in Edinburgh, Live accoustic on Sunday nights
Policy on children's access: No children's license
Disabled access: Access is easy though there are no special disabled facilities
Clientele: A mix of students, locals, office workers and tourists
Outdoor seating: No
Other attractions: This is a traditional pub which is both warm and welcoming. The Holyrood Tavern is gay friendly
Features in: CAMRA's Edinburgh & SE Scotland Real Ale Guide (2004)
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