Pub with live music in Edinburgh: folk, jazz, and rock
Music in pubs is the soul of the city
Organizeholidays in Edinburghand not entering a pub with live music is like going to New Orleans and not listening to jazz. The tradition of Scottish pubs is rich with folk sessions (often improvised), Celtic bands, and also jazz and rock. This guide takes you to the best venues where music is the star, with hours, prices, and atmosphere.
Folk and traditional Scottish music
Sandy Bell's (Forrest Road)
The most authentic folk pub in Edinburgh. Small, no stage (musicians sit in a corner). Spontaneous sessions almost every night from 9:00 PM. Instruments: violin, bagpipes, guitar, flute. Draft beer (Belhaven Best, £5). No cover charge. Arrive early (8:30 PM) to find a seat.
The Royal Oak (Infirmary Street)
Tiny pub (maybe 20 seats). Live folk music every night (from 9:00 PM). No microphone, all acoustic. Great for chatting with musicians during breaks. Beer: Caledonian Best (£4.50). Closed on Sundays.
The Captain's Bar (South College Street)
University pub with folk music every night (from 8:30 PM). More spacious than the Royal Oak, with a small stage. On Sunday afternoons (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) there is an open "folk session" for anyone who wants to play. Beer: Tennent's (£4).
The Scottish Malt Whisky Society (Queen Street)
It is not a pub open to the public (membership required), but if you are a member or get invited, there is live folk music on Friday nights in an elegant room. Exceptional whisky (from £5 to £20 per glass).
Jazz and blues
The Jazz Bar (Chambers Street)
Underground venue, professional. Jazz music every night (from 9:00 PM, often two sets). Internationally renowned bands. Cover charge: £5-10 (paid at the entrance). Beer £5, cocktails £8. Arrive early (8:30 PM) for the first set.
The Voodoo Rooms (West Register Street)
Art deco venue with two rooms: one for jazz/swing, one for DJs. Jazz on Thursdays and Sundays (entry £8). Creative cocktails (£10). Elegant atmosphere, over 25.
The Caves (Cowgate)
Pub in ancient cellars (former storage). Jazz music on Sunday afternoons (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, free). In the evening, often rock or indie (paid).
Rock, indie, and alternative
The Banshee Labyrinth (Niddry Street)
Underground pub in a former prison. Rock/metal and folk music. Multiple rooms, including one with a cinema that screens horror films. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays (from 9:00 PM, free). Beer £4. Gothic atmosphere.
Opium (Cowgate)
Alternative rock pub with emerging bands. Small stage, powerful sound. Entry often free (£5 for more well-known bands). Open until 3:00 AM. Beer £4.
Sneaky Pete's (Cowgate)
Tiny venue (capacity 80 people) dedicated to indie rock and punk. New bands and DJ sets. Entry £5-10. Very crowded, arrive early.
Pub with live music every day (no surprises)
The Three Sisters (Cowgate):large pub with an outdoor stage (in summer) and indoor. Music from 8:00 PM (cover bands, rock, pop). Free entry. Beer £5. Touristy but fun.
The Grassmarket Pub (Grassmarket):live music every night (folk and acoustic rock). Outdoor tables with heaters. Beer £4.50.
Whistlebinkies (South Bridge):three-story pub with different bands on each floor. Rock on the ground floor, folk on the first, DJ in the basement. Open until 3:00 AM. Free entry.
General hours
Folk:from 9:00 PM to midnight/1:00 AM.
Jazz:from 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM (first set), then 11:30 PM-1:00 AM (second).
Rock:from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
Sunday afternoon:folk sessions (Sandy Bell's, Captain's Bar) from 3:00 PM.
How much does it cost
Entry: £0-10 (folk pubs are almost always free, jazz clubs charge).
Beer: £4-6.
Whiskey: £5-15.
Cocktails: £8-12.
Practical tips
Arrive early(8:30 PM) for small pubs (Royal Oak, Sandy Bell's) – they fill up in 10 minutes.
Bring cash:some small pubs do not accept cards for purchases (but do for entry).
Do not ask for Ed Sheeran cover bands, folk musicians play traditional, not pop.
If you want to play, ask the bartender: folk sessions are open to musicians (bring your instrument).
FAQ
What is the most authentic pub for folk music?
Sandy Bell's and The Royal Oak. Both are small, without microphones, frequented by local musicians.
Do I need to book a table?
No, you don't book in pubs. Arrive early.
Can children enter?
Yes, in pubs until 8:00 PM (accompanied). After 8:00 PM, many pubs become adult-only. Ask first.
What do you drink in a folk music pub?
Beer (Belhaven, Caledonian, Deuchars), whisky (Glenmorangie, Talisker), or a "half & half" (light and dark beer).
Are there pubs with live music in the afternoon?
Yes, on Sunday afternoons: Captain's Bar (folk), The Caves (jazz).
What is the cheapest pub?
The Three Sisters (£4 beer) and The Banshee Labyrinth (£4).
Can I eat while listening to music?
Yes, but most serve only snacks (chips, nuts, sandwiches). For dinner, eat first (7:00 PM) and then go to the pub.
You will find a welcoming and genuine atmosphere.
Theholidays in Edinburghare filled with notes in the evening, when the pubs fill with violins, guitars, and voices telling ancient stories. You don't need to be a folk expert: just a glass of beer and the desire to be carried away. From intimate venues like Sandy Bell's to professional jazz clubs like The Jazz Bar, you will find a welcoming and genuine atmosphere. Remember: the best show is often the improvised one, when two musicians meet and start playing together.
For a complete overview of periods, itineraries, budgets, and transport in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to holidays in Edinburgh.