Our favourite hangout spots in Edinburgh

23 Oct 2023

If you’re lacking inspiration for your next hangout in Edinburgh, we’ve got you covered. This article will explore our favourite spots to unwind after a long day at work or a busy week. 

Brunch — who’s in?

Urban Angel 

Why you’ll love it: All-day brunch with carefully sourced ingredients.

Are you an Eggs Benedict fan or a French toast lover? Operating for almost 15 years in Edinburgh’s city centre, Urban Angel offers a variety of choices for a delicious all-day brunch with carefully sourced ingredients. 

Check their Instagram for a sneak peek — you might not be able to resist!

121 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DJ

The Edinburgh Larder

Why you’ll love it: An award-winning café with veggie options. 

Several-time award-winning café The Edinburgh Larder doesn’t disappoint. Their menu offers a large variety of options, including a veggie breakfast. 

They have two locations, including The Little Larder, which works on a walk-in basis — the perfect choice if you want to keep your schedule free.

Edinburgh Larder: 15 Blackfriars Street, EH1 1NB

Little Larder: 11 Blackfriars Street, EH1 1NB

Laila 

Why you’ll love it: Delicious Middle Eastern-influenced brunch with beautiful decor. 

Located in the heart of The Old Town’s Royal Mile, Laila offers Middle Eastern-influenced brunch and lunch against a backdrop of pink, glittery decor and flowers. Don’t miss their Oreo French toast, delicious churros, or popcorn pancakes. 

Depending on where you are, you can also test their specialities in New Town, as they have a second location near Waverley Train Station and St James Shopping Centre. Make sure to book in advance, as space is limited. 

Laila Old Town: 63 Cockburn Street, EH1 1BS 

Laila New Town: 1 Antigua Street, EH1 3NH 

Bring your A-game to quiz night

Break up the week by attending one of Edinburgh’s popular pub quiz nights. 

Candy Bar & Diner

Why you’ll love it: All-day hangout spot with delicious cocktails 

Offering all-day casual, tasty, and affordable food and cocktails, you will have plenty of options to choose from at Candy Bar & Diner.

And what’s more, they host the Candy Pub Quiz every Tuesday at 7 p.m. There’s no need to book and no entry fees — just walk in and take part on the night with up to 6 people.

113-115 George Street,  EH2 4JN

Candy Bar & Diner
Picture of Candy Bar & Diner (Instagram)

Pilgrim Bar 

Why you’ll love it: Quirky atmosphere and £100 up for grabs.

Located in the vibrant street of Cowgate, Pilgrim offers a unique atmosphere. Why? 90% of their items are recycled. Don’t miss their island bar (built from a barn door and old suitcases), 1930s cinema seats, or denim jean sofa area. 

Pilgrim hosts fun pub quizzes every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., with different weekly themes. It’s free to play, and you get free nachos. Winners can win up to £100. 

Make sure to bring ID as this is an 18+ venue. 

3 Robertson’s Close, Edinburgh EH1 1LY 

The Fountain Bar

Why you’ll love it: A great pub atmosphere and dog friendly! 

The Fountain is the perfect place for a drink after work or meeting friends throughout the week. Don’t miss their famous Sunday quiz every week at 8 p.m.

131 Dundee Street  EH11 1AX 

Rainy day and running out of ideas?

Don’t let the weather get you down. Try one of those activities! 

NQ64 Retro Games Pub

Why you’ll love it: Craft beer and retro games with colourful neon lights 

Go back in time and immerse yourself in the 80s at NQ64! Space Invaders, Tekken or Pac-Man — there are plenty of classic consoles to have a crack at. If you’re after a bit of nostalgia, this place is for you. 

25 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH1 2DJ

The Chocolatarium 

Why you’ll love it: Immersive chocolate experience in the heart of Edinburgh 

According to science, eating chocolate tastes good and can make you happy. So it’s time to release some dopamine, and Edinburgh has the perfect place! 

The Chocolatarium offers a range of activities related to chocolate. Immerse yourself in the factory, join a class, or try a wine or whiskey chocolate pairing session. 

3-5 Cranston Street. Edinburgh, EH8 8BE

The Chocolatarium

National Galleries Scotland 

Why you’ll love it: Art for everyone 

There’s so much to discover; one day probably isn’t enough. Home to one of the greatest art collections in the world, the Scottish National Gallery has plenty to offer. With four galleries and multiple events every month, there’s an exhibition for all tastes.

Check out their latest exhibitions and modern art collections here

The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL

Ready to head out?

We hope you now have some options to have fun or relax in Edinburgh. And if you need a ride to get there, choose Bolt! To download the Bolt app, just tap here.

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