Dalry and Haymarket are an easy walk from Caledonian Apartments and well connected to McDonald Road by tram. This compact neighbourhood has some of Edinburgh’s most characterful pubs, from historic whisky bars to relaxed places for food, sport and cocktails.

Getting There

Guests staying with Ben Cruachan can reach the Dalry and Haymarket pubs easily from both accommodation locations.

From Ben Cruachan Guest House and Ben Cruachan Rooms & Studios, 17 and 21 McDonald Road: Walk to McDonald Road tram stop and take a westbound tram to Haymarket. Ryrie & Co. and The Jolly Botanist are close to the station. For The Caley Sample Room and Athletic Arms, continue west on foot through Dalry towards Angle Park Terrace.

From Caledonian Apartments, Caledonian Crescent: Every pub in this guide is within walking distance. Head north towards Haymarket for Ryrie & Co. and The Jolly Botanist, or west along Dalry Road and Angle Park Terrace for The Caley Sample Room and Athletic Arms.

Pubs & Bars

Athletic Arms, known locally as Diggers: A proper Edinburgh pub with a traditional interior, cask ales, 22 taps, more than 700 whiskies and a simple food menu that includes locally made butcher’s pies.

The Caley Sample Room: A modern Scottish pub and kitchen combining up to eight real ales with food prepared on site, live sport, music and regular quiz nights.

Ryrie & Co.: A carefully restored public house beside Haymarket Station, with an oak bar, panelled interior, stained glass, Scottish beer, whisky and straightforward pub food.

The Jolly Botanist: A specialist gin bar and restaurant near Haymarket, known for its Victorian-inspired interior and extensive choice of gin serves and cocktails.

Opening hours, menus and events can change, so check each venue’s website before making a special journey.

Image credits: Ryrie’s at Haymarket by Stinglehammer, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Diggers by Richard Webb, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Both images have been resized.