Edinburgh
Leith is Edinburgh's old port, and its drinking has caught up with its restaurants. The Water of Leith and the basin now hold a World's 50 Best cocktail room, a run of waterfront pubs and two of the city's best natural wine bars. Save this neighbourhood guide before your next night in Edinburgh.
Duke Street, Leith · $$
Iain McPherson's Scottish first cocktail bar at 142 Duke Street, a World's 50 Best Discovery pick poured under antique chandeliers.
The Shore, Leith · $$
A historic bar and seafood restaurant on the Water of Leith, with an 1884 panelled bar, regular live jazz and Scottish whisky.
The Shore, Leith · $$$
A date night bar in a restored 15th century building on The Shore, pairing Scottish plates with a careful drinks list.
Dock Place, Leith · $$
A waterfront bar with moored pontoon seating off Dock Place, pouring craft ales and Scotch beside the basin.
Sandport Place, Leith · $$
A quirky bar cafe famous for pot tails served in vintage teapots, with real ales and all day bistro food.
The Shore, Leith · $$
A natural wine cafe on The Shore pouring biodynamic and organic bottles alongside craft beer and all day food.
Leith rewards a slow night by the water. Start with a cocktail on Duke Street, walk down to the basin for a pint on a pontoon, and finish over natural wine on The Shore without ever leaving the old port.
The order is a working ranking rather than gospel. Read the notes, pick the room that fits the night you are planning, and book the waterfront tables ahead in summer.
Every recommendation below is independent, and barsforKings does not take payment for editorial placement, ever.