Music

Best live music pubs in Edinburgh

Discover Edinburgh's most vibrant venues where live music comes alive every night. This guide takes you through traditional pubs and modern bars offering everything from Scottish folk to jazz and rock sessions. Find the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a pint while listening to talented local and international musicians. Immerse yourself in the city's rich music scene and experience unforgettable nights out.

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  1. 1

    Brewhemia (City Centre, Old Town, Edinburgh)

    95 Global Votes
    • Features live music, drag, cabaret, and DJs

      (+4)

    This Alpine-inspired venue offers a wide range of live entertainment, from cabaret and brass bands to drag shows. Its versatility makes it an ideal place for a night of dancing and diverse entertainment in the city centre.

  2. 2

    Stramash (Cowgate, Edinburgh)

    81 Global Votes
    • Brilliant live music with great energy

      (+4)

    Located in an old church, Stramash offers a unique atmosphere and live music every night without an entry fee. It's a spacious venue with a large stage and dance floor, ideal for a vibrant atmosphere.

  3. 3

    The Three Sisters (Old Town, City Centre, Edinburgh)

    81 Global Votes
    • Hosts local live music talent

      (+4)

    A lively pub in the Old Town, The Three Sisters features local talent at its 'Saturday Night Live' event and hosts a variety of burlesque and drag shows. It's an excellent option for enjoying varied music and performances in a vibrant atmosphere.

  4. 4

    Biddy Mulligans (Old Town, Edinburgh)

    59 Global Votes
    • Offers traditional live music every night

      (+4)

    This Irish pub has a solid reputation for its daily live music from 'local legends', offering a lively and authentic atmosphere. It's also a good place to watch sports on big screens, combining entertainment and tradition.

  5. 5

    Banshee Labyrinth (Market St, Edinburgh)

    52 Global Votes
    • Features live music

      (+4)

    Considered Edinburgh's most haunted pub, this 'labyrinth' of bars offers live music, open mic nights, and dance events. It's a unique experience combining music with a gothic and mysterious atmosphere.

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  7. 6

    The Jazz Bar (1a Chambers St, Edinburgh)

    44 Global Votes
    • Offers live jazz seven nights a week

      (+4)

    This bar is famous for its vibrant jazz and blues scene, offering live music regularly. It's a key spot for lovers of these genres in the city, providing a high-quality musical experience.

  8. 7

    Whistle Binkies (4-6 South Bridge, Edinburgh)

    35 Global Votes
    • Provides quality live music

      (+4)

    This pub is an Edinburgh institution, famous for its nightly live band performances seven days a week. It offers free entry and open mic nights, making it ideal for enjoying local talent.

  9. 8

    The Voodoo Rooms (West Register Street, Edinburgh)

    34 Global Votes
    • Award-winning bar and restaurant

      (+4)

    This ornate bar, with restored original features, showcases prominent Scottish folk singers. It's ideal for enjoying folk music in an elegant and visually appealing setting, offering a sophisticated experience.

  10. 9

    Bannerman's Bar (Cowgate, Edinburgh)

    28 Global Votes
    • Great rockin' atmosphere

      (+4)

    Considered a prime spot for music in Edinburgh, Bannerman's Bar offers a variety of genres from traditional folk to heavy metal. It's a destination for music lovers seeking diversity in a pub setting.

  11. 10

    Malones Edinburgh (Haymarket, West End, Edinburgh)

    27 Global Votes
    • Features live music by talented local artists Thursday - Sunday

      (+4)

    Another prominent Irish pub, Malones hosts live bands, duos, and solo artists from Thursday to Sunday, with an impressive stage and a top-notch sound system. It's perfect for those seeking an authentic Irish pub experience with live music and the best Guinness.

  12. 11

    The Royal Oak (Infirmary Street, Edinburgh)

    19 Global Votes
    • Free live music every day

      (+4)

    A historic pub over 200 years old, The Royal Oak is known for its live folk music from local musicians every night. Its intimate and cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal place for an authentic Scottish experience.

  13. 12

    The Shore Bar & Restaurant (Leith, Edinburgh)

    16 Global Votes
    • Features live jazz and folk musicians

      (+4)

    Located in an 18th-century inn, this bar and restaurant offers a touch of jazz in the air, with open fires. It's ideal for enjoying live music in a historic and cozy setting in the Leith neighborhood.

  14. 13

    Dropkick Murphys (Cowgate, Edinburgh)

    12 Global Votes
    • Live music 7 nights a week

      (+4)

    This pub is a vibrant place to enjoy live Irish music 7 days a week. It offers a lively and authentic atmosphere, ideal for those seeking an Irish pub experience with constant music.

  15. 14

    The Rat Pack Piano Bar (New Town, Edinburgh)

    12 Global Votes
    • Brilliant music

      (+4)

    This bar offers live piano and jazz music every night, with an atmosphere that evokes the 1950s. It's perfect for jazz lovers and those seeking a retro and sophisticated atmosphere in the New Town.

  16. 15

    Angels Share (Hope Street, New Town, Edinburgh)

    3 Global Votes
    • Features live music Thursday - Saturday evenings

      (+4)

    This bar and restaurant offers a contemporary and elegant atmosphere, with live music from Thursday to Sunday. It's ideal for a more sophisticated experience with live music and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh's New Town.

  17. 16

    The Wee Red Bar (Edinburgh College of Art, Edinburgh)

    3 Global Votes
    • Offers cheap drink prices

      (+4)

    This student bar offers affordable drinks and a unique sound system that attracts emerging bands. It's an excellent option for discovering new bands and enjoying live music in an alternative and youthful atmosphere.

  18. 17

    Whiski Bar & Restaurant (Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features live traditional Scottish music every night

      (+4)

    This bar and restaurant offers live traditional Scottish music every night, along with a great selection of Scottish dishes, whisky, and craft beers. It's ideal for a complete experience of food, drink, and traditional Scottish music.