There’s no doubt about it; our country is chock-full of charming, traditional boozers and stylishly cool haunts that serve up all manner of lagers, ales and whiskies. But which one’s are a notch above the rest? To help you figure out where to go for your next drink, we’ve put together a list of all the city’s top watering holes: from trendy Leith digs to quirky characters in Edinburgh, here are Scotland’s best pubs.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 9th May 2024
Just a short walk from many of Edinburgh's famous attractions, The Conan Doyle is one of the best country pubs in Scotland. It's as warming and welcoming as they come, plus it serves up a mouthwatering menu of traditional Scottish fare, alongside old school ales and beaut whiskies.
Fronting HD screens scattered across the venue, Black Dog is coming up trumps this for any sports season. Catch all the latest action while digging into a lip-smacking plates - think cheesy mac bites, katsu chips and mouthwatering burgers, alongside freshly brewed beer.
There's a lot to love about Drum & Monkey, and if you had to file this list down to the top 10 best pubs in Scotland? This Glasgow gem would certainly be in there. Swing by for a traditional boozer vibe, rich, real ale and perfectly prepared pies.
From international favourites to new wave trendsetters, Shilling Brewery Co.'s beers are hard to beat. Found in the centre of Glasgow, this brewpub is one of the best places in town for a seriously fresh pint, which will go down a treat with its tasty pizzas.
When it comes to the best pubs in Glasgow, The James Tassie really is up there. You'll be hard-pressed to find a boozer with a more traditional vibe, so head along to get to know the locals while digging into heart-warming British classics.
If you're visiting Edinburgh and are looking for a cosy nook to wet your whistle, The Last Drop is a traditional Scottish pub that's got it all. Harking back to the 17th century, this joint offers rustic, homely vibes, plus it dishes out hearty gastro grub throughout the week.
Decked out with botanical features and opulent, dark green furnishings, The Bothy is a well-known restaurant serving some of the finest Scottish produce around. It prides itself on a cracking roast, offering the likes of glazed pork loin (£19), rump lamb (£22) and Scotch beef (£19), as well as tempting mains to be enjoyed throughout the week. Think grilled chicken supreme (£19), confit duck leg (£25) and more, plus white chocolate cheesecake (£8) to finish.
One of the most loved boozers in town, Triplekirks Aberdeen is a bar and nightclub housed in a stunning converted Victorian church. With a massive selection of affordable beers, spirits, ciders, wines, cocktails and delicious pub grub, they've got it all. Want more? They've also got tons of HD screens showing the latest in sport, plus a weekly quiz for all your brainy pals.
Situated in Aberdeen, Foundry is one of Scotland's best pubs and with good reason. The watering hole has pool tables and live sports to keep you entertained, as well as lip-smacking scran - think piled high burgers, nachos and chicken wings.
A warm, cosy pub with unique interiors, Abbey Inn is a great spot to enjoy a wee tipple. Head on over for all kinds of delicious drinks, not to mention mouthwatering munch and epic bottomless brunches. Just in it for the sports screenings? There are plenty of huge TVs too.
Nestled on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile, The Mitre offers the perfect place to refuel after a day of sightseeing. So if you're looking for Scotland's pubs and restaurants, head here to put your feet up and enjoy haggis, neeps and tatties alongside other classics.
Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen, O'Neill's is the bustling boozer that's coming out on top. Whether you fancy a casual beer and a burger, lively evening watching the sports fixtures or night on the tiles dancing to live music, they've got you covered.
If you're looking for the best pubs in the Scottish Highlands, you'll certainly want to check out Bobbin. The Aberdeen drinking den is loved by locals and visitors alike for its colourful interiors, mega sports screenings and affordable menus.
Frankenstein Bierkeller has made a name for itself as one of the most unique pubs in Scotland. As it showcases spooky decor, such as an animatronic monster, as well as delicious pizzas and beer by the stein, you'll never have a dull night here.
The Caledonian is a popular spot in Inverness, thanks to its traditional yet vibrant decor and excellent roster of entertainment. When you're not enjoying the weekly quizzes, live music sessions and sports screenings, get stuck into delicious pub grub and tasty tipples.
Murdos Bar is a great pick of Aberdeen pubs, as the boozer not only offers classic Sky and TNT Sports across its screens, but also an amazing menu to match. Thin burgers, grill dishes, and pub classics ranging from haggis with neeps and tatties to pies or Scottish brekkies.
Waxy O'Connor's is a sprawling boozer that boasts six bars, each with its own unique decor, making it one of the most beautiful pubs in Scotland. The Glasgow favourite is also home to a hearty menu of Irish and Scottish cuisine - not to mention some of the best Guinness in the city.
Seeking out hidden gem pubs in Scotland? The Haymarket offers a truly authentic Edinburgh experience right in the city centre. Pull up a stool around the wooden panelled bar and get to know the lineup of lagers, ales and wines.
A gorgeous brewpub with bucketloads of character, WEST On The Green in Glasgow is a favourite among visiting beer buffs and locals alike. Expect artisan pints, craft selections and rustic-chic decor, in addition to a menu of German grub that features currywurst and schnitzel.
Found in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh and St Andrews, BrewDog has an impressive selection of beer taps that pour anything from the brand's own creations to international favourites. Plus, you can pair it all with burgers, loaded fries and wings.
Set inside an old church and inspired by Dracula, there's a frighteningly good time in store for all who enter Slains Castle in Aberdeen. Sit among gothic architecture and eclectic decorations while sipping on sinful sips like the blue rum-based Loki and sweet Humility which contains raspberry vodka and strawberry puree. Sink your teeth into affordable small plates and sharing platters including a foot-long mound of nachos.
The Greyfriars Bobby is found on Edinburgh's Candlemaker Row. Tucked away on the ground floor of an old Georgian house, this popular haunt serves up local cask ales and warming grub. Plus, it's also dog-friendly, so feel free to take your pup along too.
Offering quirky decor, elevated pub grub and a top-notch selection of liquid libations, Hector's is coming out on top. Open until late every day of the week, plus flaunting sun-soaked streetside tables, it's ideal for casual catch-ups with mates and cosy date nights.
Hailed as one of the oldest pubs in Scotland, The White Hart packs oodles of charm. In line with its traditional boozer stylings, this historic Edinburgh spot is well-known for its hearty menu of winter warmer classics, as well as its impressive selection of whiskies, real ales and lagers.
Something of a worldie, Cold Town House in Edinburgh is one of the country's most popular pubs. Head over to enjoy Neapolitan-style pizzas and cracking quaffs. Plus when the weather gets warmer? Move to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of the historic castle.
A place that's steeped in history, The Pot Still is often considered the best pub in Scotland. And why's that? Because the Glaswegian haunt stocks over 800 different whiskies from all over the world. And you won't be going hungry either, as there are tasty pies to devour.
Want to go where the locals are? In Glasgow, The Finnieston is buzzing every night of the week. From the stylish yet rustic decor to a menu that boasts some of the best pub food in Scotland, it's easy to understand why this place is so popular.
