You just need to take a quick look at the Edinburgh spots to realise that the city loves our coffee almost as much as our beer (check the other Edinburgh coffee articles). But in a city where you can’t swing a cat without hitting a coffee shop my default option is still always Union Brew Lab.

One of the original ‘hipster’ Edinburgh coffee shops, Union Brew Lab specialises in single-origin coffees. There’s a wide range of other items on offer too though, including locally-sourced cakes, soups, sandwiches, salads, teas and hot chocolates. There are also gluten-free and vegan options.

Located near the main University of Edinburgh campus, Brew Lab seems to be a magnet for students and hipsters. Although just behind the National Museum, it’s apparently avoided the touristy crowd that flocks to other nearby coffee shops. Maybe it helps that JK Rowling hasn’t written a book here yet 😉

The atmosphere is very relaxing and, coupled with the free Wi-Fi, excellent coffee and friendly staff, this is a great place to break a day exploring the city or spend a few hours reading or writing.