A student's guide to student pubs in Edinburgh

Starting university is a big deal, and the city you choose can make a big difference. At Belhaven, we’re continuing to take a look at some of the best student cities in the UK, and this time, we're heading to the capital of Scotland. Yep, we're off to Edinburgh and we sure have a few of the best student pubs in Edinburgh too!

Known for its prestigious universities, historic beauty, world-renowned festivals, Edinburgh is a top-rated city for students. Plus, it boasts more than its fair share of excellent pubs – and we all know that's a priority!

Edinburgh universities: the big four

There are four main universities in Edinburgh, so let's take a quick tour.

University of Edinburgh

Consistently ranked as one of the world's top universities, the University of Edinburgh is a leading institution known for its high-impact research and diverse academic offerings ranging from law and economics to philosophy and science. Nestled in the heart of the city's Old Town beside iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and George Square, this university has a rich, centuries-old heritage.

Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University is a specialist, innovative institution, known for its strong focus on career-driven degrees, such as engineering, physics, architecture and mathematical sciences. Recognised as Scotland's most international university with campuses in Edinburgh, Dubai, and Malaysia, around one-third of on-campus students at Heriot-Watt come from outside the UK.

Edinburgh Napier University

Known as the number one modern university in Scotland, Edinburgh Napier University is often praised for student satisfaction and highly rated for career prospects. It's three main campuses – Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sightill – are spread out across the city. If you're thinking of going into applied sciences, business, healthcare or creative industries, Edinburgh Napier University is a good one to consider.

Queen Margaret University (QMU)

Founded in 1875 and named after the Scottish Queen Saint Margaret (1045–1093), Queen Margaret University was originally the Edinburgh School of Cookery, focusing on working-class women's education and domestic sciences. QMU still focuses on the culinary arts, along with social sciences, healthcare and education. With high graduate employment rates, this practical, student-focused university has a commitment to equality and community support.

Life in Scotland's capital: a city of opportunities

Life in Edinburgh is vibrant and diverse, even if you're not a student! Consistently ranked as one of the best cities for quality of life, safety, healthcare and more, Edinburgh has a lot to offer, and there's certainly no shortage of things to do.

From student bars and legendary entertainment venues to history and culture aplenty, it comes as no surprise that Edinburgh is extremely popular with students and young people, many choosing to stay in the area after graduation.

Let's take a deeper dive into the reasons Edinburgh is so highly rated as a student city.

Affordable accommodation

Student accommodation can be found all across the city, but certain areas are more popular than others in terms of affordability and proximity to campuses and amenities. One thing's for sure – you won't be short of options, regardless of your budget.

Newington: This classic student hub is within walking distance of the University of Edinburgh, with plenty of bus links to the other three main universities. Well-loved for its vibrant atmosphere and nightlife, Newington boasts an excellent range of traditional pubs for quiet pints and major clubs, perfect for Freshers' Week.

Marchmont: With a nice balance of convenience and community, this sought-after area is known for its affordable accommodation options and excellent amenities. If you'd prefer to give the halls of residence a miss and go straight for a house or flat share, you'll find rows of traditional Victorian and Edwardian tenement flats and plenty of green spaces.

Tollcross: If its nightlife you're after, this is the place to be! Known as one of the liveliest student areas in the city, Tollcross is home to some of the most popular bars and clubs. With various transport options and connections to the West End and Grassmarket, this area is central and perfect for students seeking a lively social life.

Quality of student life

Edinburgh has a significant student population – over 55,000, according to UCAS – but what makes it such a top contender among UK student cities? Well, along with its exceptional academic reputation, the quality of student life has a lot to do with it.

Safety: Although Edinburgh is an urban environment, it's generally regarded as one of the safer cities in the UK, with a relatively low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, it goes without saying that precautions should always be taken – stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas and keep your valuables out of sight.

Public transport: Edinburgh has an excellent public transport system, with a bus and tram network that covers most areas of the city – make sure you check for student discounts. Night buses also run from midnight to 4:30am, so you needn't fork out a fortune for taxis after all those nights out! Walking and cycling are also popular methods of getting around in this pedestrian-friendly city.

Student employment: Living off your student maintenance loan or bursary without any extra income can be tricky. Luckily, Edinburgh has plenty of part-time employment opportunities in hospitality, retail, education and more.

Healthcare: Before you start uni, it's always a good idea to register with a local GP, of which there are plenty, all across the city. However, your chosen university may also offer health and well-being services. Furthermore, the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh is often praised for its exceptional standards of care, so you're in good hands no matter what happens!

Things to consider before choosing your university options

There’s a lot to think about when choosing where to spend your student years, and it’s not just about the course. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Your education: This has to be top of the pile. It’s important to choose a uni city with a university that offers a course you’re excited about, and that will set you up for the future and give you the qualifications you need.

Cost of living: Student life isn’t cheap, so look for a city where your money goes further. Student discounts, affordable rent, and reasonably priced nights out all make a big difference.

• Accommodation: Your student digs need to be affordable. But you also want a city that has dedicated student areas, where you can meet new people, go out and have fun with your new friends.
• Access to part-time work: Earning while you study can really help. Whether it’s pulling pints, working retail or getting experience in your chosen field, make sure the city has plenty of opportunities.
• Local transport: A decent bus or tram network is a must, especially for getting to early lectures or home after a night out. Bonus points for good train links if you’re planning regular trips home.
• Proximity to family: Some people want to get as far away as possible from their home town. Others want to be close, so they can nip home whenever they want. It’s up you.
• Health services: You’ll want to be able to register with a local GP and visit the hospital if you need to in an emergency.
• Things to do: Finally, it’s important to choose a city that has different options for fun outside of uni, whether that’s enjoying a night out with friends, going to an art gallery, catching a gig, watching a sports match, or just enjoying an afternoon in the pub.

H2: Where history and culture meet modern energy: things we love about Edinburgh

Fascinating history

It's no secret that Edinburgh is a city steeped in history. Its dark, dramatic and colourful past is part of the reason it receives roughly five million visitors each year. From the cobbled streets of the Old Town to Edinburgh Castle, which sits perched on an extinct volcano that erupted about 340-350 million years ago, there's a lot to discover. You can learn more about Edinburgh's history by visiting the numerous museums and galleries, many of which offer free entry or student discounts.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

We can't talk about Edinburgh without mentioning the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival! As the world's largest open-access arts festival, it's a pretty big deal, especially for local pubs and bars who host a wide range of events covering everything from music and theatre to drag and stand-up comedy. Seen as a rite of passage for many artists, both amateur and professional, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is not to be missed out on – even better when you're living in the thick of it!

Bars and pubs

Edinburgh is home to hundreds of bars and pubs with something for every occasion, from quiet pints to raucous celebrations. And that's not all – if they're ringing last orders and you're still not ready to go home, you'll be happy to know that Edinburgh has an excellent clubbing scene, particularly in areas like Cowgate, New Town and Haymarket. Just make sure you're up for that 9am lecture tomorrow.