Nightlife in the Scottish Capital

Edinburgh is perhaps one of the most alive places in the world. By day, walk along the castle walls and you can enjoy the city that is steeped in, sometimes rather gruesome, history, or walk along the shops on Princess Street and be overtaken by a soundtrack of the iconic bagpipes.

Daytime sights are plentiful and there is no shortage of articles detailing the must see sights and events.  But for a night or two perhaps take a nap and stay up late so you can explore the city in the evening.

Because it’s at night that the city kicks into action. Famed for its events such as the Fringe, Hogmanay and the tattoo, even on a weeknight you will be enthralled by what the Scottish capital has to offer.

Bars
The city, which dates back to the 7th century, has some of the oldest, and liveliest, bars in the UK. Covering everything from the traditional pub to stylish and sophisticated cocktail bars, Edinburgh has it all. The Last Drop in Grassmarket is a favoured watering hole in one of the city’s biggest drinking areas. Whilst famed for its whisky, Edinburgh has some the best bars in the country including Whisky Rooms which can be found on North Bank Street.

Ghost Walks
Equally famous for its spooky goings on, the city offers a number of frightening tours in the Old Town. With many on offer, visiting some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful buildings, a ghost walk is the perfect way to kick off an evening, and will probably leave you sleeping with the lights on.

Theatres
If all the drama of a ghost tour isn’t enough, Theatreland is as exciting in Scotland as it is in London. With both the Lion King and Wicked on their way north in the next year, it’s an exciting time at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Set in a former cinema, the Playhouse dates back to 1929 and is modelled on the Roxy in New York. Now showcasing musicals fit for Broadway, a night at the theatre is a must.

Casinos
While a night at the theatre is thrilling in Auld Reekie, so is the feel of the green felt. It’s unsurprising that two of the country’s top casinos are based in the capital. With all the regular chains, Edinburgh is also home to a somewhat smaller and cosier affair called the Maybury Casino. This has some great slots and around a dozen tables, which makes for a buzzy atmosphere. Play poker, blackjack and roulette or Texas hold ‘em poker here.

Comedy
If it’s a little light relief you’re looking for however, then you can’t go wrong in the comedy capital of the world. Visit during the Fringe and you can’t move for great comedy, but outside the festival period, the Stand always has great names that will keep you laughing into the night. With the likes of Jo Caulfield, Alex Horne and numerous up-and-coming acts playing in the next couple of months, you’ll not only be itching to go back the The Stand, but also the fabulous city of Edinburgh.


So what do you think?  Will you stay up late and take in what the Edinburgh nightlife has to offer?