Edinburgh's Oldest Pub Crawl
Pub Crawl Info
Some of these places close early so be sure to check opening times when doing this pub crawl!
There are also some fun facts about these pubs in this guide and some drink recommendations, so have fun with it and you could even make these into drinking games! Enjoy your crawl.
Stop 1 - The Golf Tavern
Having been open since 1456 - this is a great old pub to start at. If it is still daylight when you start your pub crawl then consider renting some clubs here and participating in their short hole golf course right outside the pub!
£10 for club hire and any pint of your choice is an incredible way to start off your evening.
Stop 2 - The Doric Tavern
Heads up - this place closes at 9 so if you're starting later I would advise giving this stop a miss so you don't bug the staff by appearing at 8.55!
Built in the 17th Century and Edinburgh's oldest gastro-pub, The Doric Tavern is a strong piece of Edinburgh's pub history. Named after the Aberdeenshire dialect, this pub is a great place to find some local beers and traditional Scottish food.
Stop 3 - The Guildford Arms
Opening in 1896, The Guildford Arms has a very glamorous feel to it as soon as you walk through the door. This pub is known for its real ales and rotating beer collection that is sure to have something to suit all taste buds.
This building was built as a luxurious Scottish bar, which differs from the usual style at the time, and is one of the only bars of their style to continue standing even after all these years.
Stop 4 - The Oxford Bar
Now, this bar may not seem like much however it gets its fame from the author Sir Ian Rankin who has featured this bar in many of his books. Built in 1811 and having been a pub since 1893, this has a worthy mention on this pub crawl so you can experience just why this pub has gained its fame.
Stop 5 - Beehive Inn
If you've walked down Grassmarket you will have noticed this pub, however you may not have been aware that this pub has been here for over 400 years. Owned by the Bellhaven brewery, you know they have a good selection of beers and loads of malt whiskeys to choose from.
Stop 6 - The White Hart Inn
The White Hart Inn was founded in 1516, and due to its old age has a reputation for mysterious sounds and unexplained events happening... so maybe have an extra drink so you can convince yourself that was just the booze and not a ghost!
Edinburgh's most haunted pub is also known for Robbie Burn's having been a frequent customer and writing many of his works here. Try some local Edinburgh gin's or whiskeys here to taste the true 'spirit' of Scotland!
Stop 7 - Greyfriars Bobby
Opened shortly after the story of Greyfriars Bobby, who was a loyal dog who waited by his owners grave, from when he died in 1958, until Bobby died in 1872, Grefriars Bobby Bar opening in 1893 pays respect and helps keep the history alive.
Stop 8 - Deacon Brodies Tavern
Named after Deacon William Brodie, who was thought to be an inspiration for Jekyll and Hyde, Deacon Brodies Tavern fits the bill for old Scottish pubs with the tartan floors, good ales and decorative wooden ceiling.
Stop 9 - The World's End
The perfect place to end this pub crawl, The World's End building was created in the 16th century and the exterior wall is part of Edinburgh's Flodden Wall. Based on the Royal Mile, there are many old and classic pubs to go from here if you want to continue your night, or plenty of taxi ranks if you're defeated!!
Hope you enjoyed your pub crawl of Edinburgh's Oldest Pubs, let me know if you do it or if there are any essential places that simply must be included!
The home for unique & authentic travel
