Pubs by Edinburgh Christmas Market
The best Christmas pubs near Edinburgh Markets
Edinburgh is one of those cities that looks good all year round (even in sideways rain).But come December, the Scottish capital truly outdoes itself. Fairy lights cling to the cobbled streets, the Castle glows in the winter dark, and the Edinburgh Christmas Markets take over with bratwurst, crafts, and mulled everything. Add in a healthy dose of Scottish traditions and you’ve got the recipe for one unforgettable Christmas.
But here’s the thing: no trip to the markets is complete without ducking into a proper pub. And we have some of the best Christmas pubs right by the action, ready to serve up hearty food and that unmistakable Scottish warmth.
What makes Edinburgh Christmas Markets so special?
Forget hopping on a plane to Germany, Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets have it all:
- East Princes Street Gardens: Around 70 stalls selling everything from woolly hats to whisky fudge, with the LNER Big Wheel spinning you high above the Castle skyline.
- West Princes Street Funfair: Family rides, warming zones, and choir performances at the Ross Bandstand. Perfect for little ones… or big kids who want candy floss.
- George Street Ice Rink & Polar Ice Bar: Skate under the Georgian skyline, then thaw out with a hot toddy or something frostier at the capital’s “coolest” bar.
- Castle of Light: Edinburgh Castle lit up like you’ve never seen it before.
- St Andrew Square Winter Garden: Home to the UK’s largest illuminated Christmas Tree Maze. Yes, you’ll get lost. Yes, it’s worth it.
- Torchlight Procession & Hogmanay: Scots know how to end the year in style: fire, bagpipes, Vikings, and fireworks.
And when the cold sets in (and it will), the best escape is one of our Christmas pubs nearby.
Why spend Christmas with us at the pub?
Because in Scotland, the pub isn’t just a place to drink, it’s a place to gather, share stories, and celebrate. At Christmas, that spirit shines brighter than the Castle lights. Our pubs are part of Edinburgh’s fabric: centuries-old taverns where poets wrote, politicians plotted, and travellers warmed up by the fire.
With us, you’ll find:
- Hearty Scottish classics - haggis, pies, fish & chips, and puddings that’ll keep Santa smiling.
- Whisky collections - from world-famous drams to locally loved malts.
- A seat by the fire (or under the telly) - whether you’re there for live music, live sports, or just people-watching.
- Room for everyone - family-friendly, dog-friendly, history-packed, and always welcoming.
So after wandering the Edinburgh Christmas Market, warm up the Scottish way - in one of our Christmas pubs.
The Albanach
Whisky lovers, rejoice. The Albanach is home to one of the best malt selections in Edinburgh, right on the Royal Mile - perfect for a post-market warm-up.
The Advocate
Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and right in the heart of Old Town. Grab a pint, watch the world go by, and recharge at the Advocate before hitting more stalls.
The Beehive Inn
Four centuries of history and even Robbie Burns as a former customer.
With live sports, steak & ale pies, and cask ales, the Beehive Inn is one of the most buzzing pubs in the city.
The Doctors
Packed with gothic history and serving hearty pub food with cask ales, Doctors is the perfect final stop after exploring Edinburgh’s markets and light shows.
The Malt Shovel Inn
A historic hideaway from the 1800s with live music, Scottish ales, and a menu stacked with pies and indulgent desserts. Think of the Malt Shovel Inn as your reward after conquering the ice rink.
The Milnes Bar
Since 1910, Milnes has been where Edinburgh’s writers came to get inspired (whisky helps).
Today, it’s the perfect pit stop for Belhaven beers, burgers, and a cosy seat just steps from the market.
The White Hart
Founded in 1516, Edinburgh’s oldest tavern has seen Robert Burns and Oliver Cromwell pass through.
Today, The White Hart is famous for whisky, live music, and haggis worth writing poetry about.
Plan your Edinburgh Christmas
Between the market stalls, Castle of Light, torchlit parades, and Hogmanay fireworks, Christmas in Edinburgh is pure magic.But the sparkle doesn’t stop outside - it continues in the pubs, where the history is as rich as the whisky and the welcome is warmer than your woolly jumper.
So, whether you’re skating on George Street or soaking up the views from the Scott Monument, make sure your Edinburgh adventure includes a pint, a pie, and a proper story from one of the city’s best Christmas pubs. That’s the real spirit of Christmas in Scotland.