13 Best Nightlife in New Town, Edinburgh and the Lothians

Famed for its atmospheric Victorian interiors—think ornate stucco, etched mirrors, tiled murals, stained glass, and leather booths—the Cafe Royal Circle Bar has been drawing a cast of Edinburgh characters since it opened in 1863. Regulars and newcomers alike pack in for the drinks (a host of real ales and malt whiskies) and tasty bar food (everything from bar snacks and sandwiches to elaborate seafood platters).

Like the Café Royal Circle Bar on the other corner of the same Victorian block, the Guildford Arms has a spectacular interior of intricate plasterwork, elaborate cornices, and wood paneling. The ornate ceiling alone is worth the visit. Stay for the range of excellent Scottish ales on tap.

Situated right opposite Edinburgh Waverley Station, Juniper cultivates an air of glamorous fun with its plant-filled interior and postcard-worthy views of the city and the castle. The wine list is good (if a little pricey), but it's the imaginative cocktails that really make this place, from Smoke on the Water (a combo of peaty whisky and peach iced tea) to Late Night Tough Guy Colada (a mix of pineapple rum, coconut, and white chocolate liqueur).

The very definition of a hidden gem, this Prohibition-style speakeasy is cunningly tucked away behind a barbershop exterior. Venture inside and downstairs to discover a quirky bar serving some seriously refined cocktails. And yes, we're baffled by the fictional bar-owning panda, too.

This easily walked-by basement bar on Queen Street—take the stairs down to a clothing-alteration shop and you'll see a small sign—is one of Edinburgh's great hidden gems. Expect superb cocktails, eclectic music (DJs spin most nights), young crowds, and lots of nooks and crannies.

A spacious, traditional pub on trendy Broughton Street, the Cask and Barrel serves hand-pulled ales from a horseshoe-shaped bar, ringed by a collection of brewery mirrors. There is a second Cask and Barrel in Southside.

Modern and colorful, CC Blooms is a club spread over two levels, playing a mix of musical styles and with regular cabaret nights. Open nightly, it's been a mainstay on the gay scene since the early '90s, and can now count several other gay-friendly bars and clubs as neighbors.

One of eight Swedish bars and restaurants in Edinburgh owned by the Boda group, Joseph Pearce's has a distinctly northern European feel, despite its solidly Edwardian origins. Scandi-themed cocktails are popular here, as are the meatballs, open sandwiches, and other Swedish dishes. There's a children's corner with toys to keep the little ones occupied, and a sunny outdoor space in summer.

Housed in a former Georgian coach house, this diminutive but friendly spot serves 50 single-malt whiskies, a range of guest ales, and decent bottled beers. Check out the cute little wood-paneled library room, with its tiny fireplace and shelves full of books.

Billing itself as "the best real ale gay pub in Edinburgh," this popular drinking hole at the far east end of the New Town is warm, homey, and welcoming—and it's dog-friendly, too. As advertised, the real ales selection is great.

This funky, cheerful bar has something of the 1950s jet-setter vibe—which might explain its happy-go-lucky mash-up of cocktails, Mexican food, and Hawaiian-shirted bar staff.

Laugh until your sides split at The Stand, a legendary basement comedy club that hosts both famous names and up-and-coming acts all throughout the year, though it's particularly popular during the Fringe. Most, but not all, shows are 18+.

This stylish basement bar has bouncy stools, comfy sofas, and a long list of superb, throwback cocktails. Resident DJs play Thursday through Sunday.