Tucked away in an unlikely part of the New Town is this self-described "dive bar". This is hidden gem that boasts one of Edinburgh's few beer gardens, so it's an excellent place to beat the crowds on a sunny day. Inside, though, you will find a dark, rock and roll bar, complete with an excellent jukebox and table football.
The Star Bar is a unique find and feels like it has been plucked directly from American cinema. There is reputedly a clause in the lease that forbids the removal of a cursed human skull that resides in the bar, which only adds to a sense of the cinematic!
It's a lively, late night place and sometimes plays host to bands. I like to come here as an antidote to the gentile atmosphere of the New Town and be whisked away to somewhere very different. Put something lively on the jukebox and grab yourself a beer!
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"Sabzi" in Edinburgh used to be a Blockbuster video store, then it became a pop-up restaurant. Now it serves wonderful heart-warming Punjabi street food!
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"S. Luca" has been one of my favorite places in Edinburgh since I was a kid. What they're famous for is their own brand of ice cream - and I love it!
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"Green. Leith" is a refreshing and colourful addition to the well-known street in Edinburgh. They really take green plants & accessories to a new level!
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I have to confess I've walked past the spot thousands of times before I actually realised it was anything to pay attention to!
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The "Leith Victoria Swim Centre" in Edinburgh is a beautiful pool surrounded by an ornade, Baroque, cast-iron colonnade. Well worth a visit!
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"Union Brew Lab" Edinburgh is one of the original hipster coffee shops in the city. JK Rowling hasn't written a book here yet!
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"Manna House Bakery" in South Queensferry in Edinburgh has great views over the Forth Rail Bridge. Come here for the super value-for-money homemade food!
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Craiglockhart Hill is one of Edinburgh's 7 hills. In contrast to Calton Hill, Castle Hill and Arthur's Seat, even many locals can't name this one!
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The zoo is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. Next to it is "Corstorphine Hill" that's in my opinion much more interesting to explore!
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"The Hanging Bat" is craft beer lover's idea of heaven in Edinburgh. If it's quiet enough, I like to take a seat at the bar and chat with the staff...
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138 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 138 Insider Tips from our local Spotters