Something A Little Different in Edinburgh

Though a night out at your local is fine, it's nice to try something a little different every once in a while. Whether you're looking for a quirky cocktail bar or are instead looking for a new restaurant with a bit of extra character, these venues are all perfect for anyone looking to take a big step outside of their comfort zone. From secret speakeasies decorated as a Victorian barber shop to cocktail bars inspired by the Rio De Janeiro's street side watering holes, there's always something a little different in Edinburgh for you to try on for size. 

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 26th February 2025



Edinburgh Ghost Bus Tour

@ Edinburgh Ghost Bus Pickup Location on Various dates from Wednesday 30th April 2025

Get ready for a ghostly adventure through Edinburgh's most haunted spots with the Ghost Bus Tour. Hop aboard a vintage double-decker Routemaster and journey through the Old and New Towns while your creepy conductor tells stories of executions, grave robbers, and ghostly encounters.

Stops include iconic locations like Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirk. With a blend of supernatural tales and dark humour, this is one sightseeing experience that brings Edinburgh's chilling history to life.

YO!

If you're interested in learning how to make sushi, YO! is answering your prayers. Mosey on over to its Princes Street spot where you'll be guided by one of their expert chefs to create four different types of the Japanese cuisine, all the while sipping and nibbling refreshments.

Lucky Liquor Co

If you love your cocktails and live in Edinburgh, odds are that you've heard of the legendary team at the Lucky Liquor Co. As a sleek, sophisticated and wonderfully unusual bar in Edinburgh, its talented line up of mixologists let their imaginations run wild when it comes to creating cocktails. Think bourbon washed with mustard and fiery liqueurs made using quirky techniques, the sky's the limit when it comes to the flavours on offer at this cocktail bar. 

Pickering's Gin

A historic venue which was once a veterinary college, Pickering's Gin at Summerhall Distillery is a unique, independent distillery just south of the city centre and the first gin-exclusive distillery to open in Edinburgh in 150 years. They offer a wide range of gin-based tipples made from their small batch-distilled spirits, and weekends promise a lineup of fun events as well.

Take part in their cocktail making class to create three bespoke concoctions using their spirits, led by an expert mixologists. They also host Scottish supper clubs, where you can enjoy the very best of local produce paired with their drinks and beers from their neighbour brewery.

Panda & Sons

There's plenty more going on than first meets the eye at Panda & Sons. From the outside, it looks like your usual Victorian barber shop. But venture downstairs and you'll discover a secret speakeasy bar, decked out with old school barber chairs, vintage barber equipment, fun antiques and an unbeatable cocktail menu curated by Mr Panda himself. It's the perfect spot for anyone that's looking for a quirky new hangout.