One of the most world’s famous capitals, Edinburgh is known for its cobbled streets and historic landmarks but despite the weather there a few rooftop bars that offer a unique perspective of this enchanting city. These bars can elevate your drinking experiences beyond the traditional pub setting. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply in search of breath-taking views, here is three of Edinburgh’s best rooftop bars.
Cold Town House
Best for: 🥂🍹🥗🍕
Location: Right under Edinburgh castle
View: Edinburgh Castle
Vibe: Quirky and chill
Prosecco price: 🍾🍾
Food available? Yes
Booking available? Yes
Smoking allowed? No
Last visited /photos taken: 2023
Warm/dry weather only? Yes
Rooftop review roundup: Set up on the top floor of this quirky and fun bar. Different floors have different themes – one being a Prosecco bar should it be raining on the rooftop! But the rooftop bar is the jewel in the crown! Fun areas to pose in, a burger van, pretty floral areas and of course the castle as it’s backdrop. Whilst on a rooftop you are usually looking down or across to a landmark where this bar is set means the castle towers over you. Plus teenagers were welcome – perfect for a lunch stop whilst exploring this historical city.
Website: Click here
Harvey Nichols Forth Floor Brasserie and Bar
Best for: 🥂☕️
Location: On top of Harvey Nichols department store
View: Over to Fife and the square below
Vibe: Ladies what lunch!
Prosecco price: 🍾🍾🍾
Food available? Yes
Booking available? Yes
Smoking allowed? No
Last visited /photos taken: 2033
Warm/dry weather only? Yes, inside there’s a floor to ceiling window so you can still enjoy the view whilst being dry and warm. It is Scotland after all!
Rooftop review roundup: This is more a rooftop terrace that wraps round the forth floor restaurant bar. It’s perfect for alfresco drinking or dining after some serious shopping. And the USP is on a clear day you have spectacular views right over to Fife.
Website: Click here
1820 at Jonnie Walker
Best for: Views of Edinburgh castle 🏰 🥂🍹☕️
Location: On top of the Jonnie Walker shop
View: Edinburgh castle
Vibe: Brasserie by day, date night by sunset, party by night
Prosecco price: 🍾🍾🍾
Food available? Yes
Booking available? Yes
Smoking allowed? No
Last visited /photos taken: 2023
Warm/dry weather only? Yes
Rooftop review roundup: This rooftop bar feels more exclusive than most. We were pre booked down stairs as we entered the shop and then escorted up in the elevator and warmly welcomed. As it was a windy weather day with sporadic showers we sat inside but popped out when a glimmer of sun appeared. Yes there is sunshine in Scotland! The terrace has large outdoor sofas to laze on or high stools to perch on depending on the company you are with. What makes this rooftop bar in Edinburgh so special is the castle views. It is the perfect place to pose with Edinburgh castle in the background. However there is just one small area for this insta pic. It should be named the selfie spot! Despite this – it is a must if you are in Edinburgh.
Website: Click here
