The popularity of whisky in Scotland continues to surge with new distilleries opening up from the Borders to the Outer Hebrides, and new exciting bottles appearing at a rapid rate. And, should you be looking to enjoy Scotland's national spirit in the capital, you have a plethora of great options.
But which are the best to try and where should you go if you want to find the biggest range of whiskies – including blends, single malts and single grains – at the best value? With so many options out there, you'll also want to speak to the most knowledgeable and friendly staff who will be able to help you navigate the intriguing world of whisky to find the best drinks to suit your palate.
With that in mind, we've looked across the city to see which modern whisky bars and traditional historic pubs you should check out next time you fancy the uisge beatha.
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The Athletic Arms (The Diggers), Angle Park Terrace
Not only is the Diggers a true hidden gem of a pub in the city's west end, but it's also home to over 500 whiskies at great prices (possibly the best on this list). This old-school pub is the kind of pub everyone will love, with a friendly atmosphere and a range of award-winning pies which are ideal for soaking up the alcohol. The staff are knowledgeable, welcoming, and more than happy to chat you through what amazing whiskies they have on their packed gantry.
Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar, Queen Street
The Scottish Malt Whisky Society is one of the world's most renowned whisky clubs and for good reason, their green bottles are filled only with the very best quality liquid that comes in at cask strength, 50-60%.
Their renovated Queen Street premises houses an exciting bar, which opened to the public in 2017, and here is the fun part, offers a range of 200 single malt whiskies which focus on flavour rather than the age or the distillery, making catering for all types of whisky fan a forte.
Teuchter’s Landing, Dock Place
The ever-popular Shores of Leith is home to one of the best-known bars around, beloved by locals and visitors alike, the Teuchter's Landing is renowned for great pub grub, alongside an excellent range of whisky and beers.
Be warned it gets busy in the summertime and on rugby match days so you best get in quick if you want a plum seat at this exciting waterside pub.
The Canny Man’s, Morningside Rd
Dating all the way back to 1871, the Canny Man's is the most eccentric entry on this list and offers a one of the most distinctive interiors you'll probably come across in a capital pub. Described by chef Rick Stein as "the best pub in the world", you'll find its bright red shelves filled with over 250 whiskies and friendly staff who'll not only take you through them but tell you all about this wonderful pub while they are at it. A real bar with character.
The Bow Bar, West Bow
Found close to both the Castle and the Grassmarket, this a true Edinburgh institution that everyone should visit at least once. A truly traditional bar, the gantry is packed with hundreds of whiskies and a great selection of real ales to enjoy along side them.
Scotch at the Balmoral Hotel
Another hidden gem, this time squirrelled away within one of Edinburgh's most famous luxury hotels, the Balmoral, Scotch is a whisky geek's paradise. Serving both hotel guests and the public alike, the kilt sporting expert staff are on hand to take you on a journey through their nearly 500 whiskies within the intimate and cosy setting of their bar. Drinks fans will also find their top range of cocktails much to their liking.
Devil’s Advocate, Advocate's Close
Hidden just off the Royal Mile down one of the famous street's many closes lies Devil's Advocate, which lies on the trendier side of the scale when it comes to whisky bars in Edinburgh. Housed in an atmospheric old Victorian pump house, it's also one of the best looking with many candlelit nooks and crannies to enjoy its over 300 whiskies and delicious Scottish dishes.
The Black Cat, Rose Street
Effortlessly cool, the Black Cat on Rose Street is one of the best places in the city to go for a more relaxed vibe when it comes to enjoying whisky. This independent bar offers an incredible range of whiskies (a veritable wall of bottles behind the bar), flights to help take the fuss out of choosing and live traditional folk music to enjoy while you drink.
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