Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means? It's time to make the most of those sprawling outdoor spots. Whether you're watching sports in a courtyard, enjoying a few after-work drinks while soaking up the sunshine or simply looking for a serene way to spend your lazy Sundays, our guide to Edinburgh's beer gardens promises to tick all of your boxes.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
One of the capital's most famous pubs, with traditional decor and a scrumptious menu of classic grub to boot, Golf Tavern is a total hotspot. That's especially true when the weather warms up, as people flock to its sun-soaked alfresco area where you can sink sloshing pints aplenty.
Hands down one of the prettiest beer gardens on our list, Black Ivy is a brilliant boozer. When the weather is chilly, cosy up with a plush throw wrapped around, or if you fancy a sun-soaked pint, settle in and while away.
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The best beer gardens in Edinburgh? Hector's is one of the swanky suburb's most beloved boozers. Fronting quirky interiors and a mouthwatering menu of comfort food classics, the Deanhaugh Street haunt also offers a sunny terrace that's popular on balmy Scottish evenings.
You can find Bellfield Brewery & Taproom in the Abbeyhill area of Edinburgh and only a 10-minute walk from Holyrood Palace. Not only does it boast an extensive list of guest beers as well as house brews, but it also has one of the nicest gardens to cosy up in with a beverage in hand, come rain or shine thanks to its heated booths. Gather some friends and head down to enjoy an array of drinks as well as some tasty food from vendors like Bahn Mi Brothers and DD's Fried Chicken.
If you're looking for an outdoor bar in Edinburgh's West End, Innis & Gunn is a great option. This place offers over 26 different ales on tap, which can be sipped in the sun at one of the streetside tables. Alternatively, you can also head over to the Leith pub for an alfresco pint.
Another gorgeous spot for outdoor drinking in Edinburgh is Angels Share. The luxury hangout is popular with savvy locals and tourists alike. Offering a menu of delicious tipples, sips include signature cocktails, international whiskies and wines.
Boasting one of the best beer gardens in Edinburgh city centre, this old school pub is known for its warm welcome and cracking selection of real ales. When summer rolls around, you'll find a cute outdoor terrace that's been designed with sunny pints and people-watching in mind.
Slug and Lettuce transforms in the summer months, taking over part of George Street with a beautiful garden terrace. Grab yourself a seat in the verdant outdoor area, sink a couple of pretty cocktails and feel like you've been transported to somewhere abroad.
Boasting a beautiful outdoor terrace smack bang in the city centre, there's a reason why Le Monde's summer offering is so popular. Head on over to top up your tan while you sip delicious cocktails or fresh pints. And if you get hungry? There's a mouthwatering menu of delights too.
Get a good dose of vitamin D by heading on over to Amber Rose's alfresco area. Boasting plenty of seating and parasols for when the sun's extra hot, it's a fabulous place to get stuck into classic pub grub and tasty drinks, all at affordable prices.
When we think of places to drink outside in Edinburgh, The Pear Tree immediately springs to mind. Located not far from George Square, this huge outdoor terrace always draws in crowds from across the city, with revellers flocking to indulge in great grub, perfectly poured pints and live sports.
As one of the best rooftop bars in Edinburgh city centre, Cold Town House is a real gem. These guys even brew their own beer and sling out beautiful wood-fired pizzas, so head on over to kick back with craft sips, munch on tasty Neapolitan slices and take in the awe-inspiring views of the castle.
56 North is a charming cocktail bar with a secret terrace that deserves a place on your radar. Grab a drink, search through the many doors of the venue and see if you can find the beautiful garden hiding at the back. But if you can't? There's plenty more seating out front.
