History

Walking in through the saloon doors for the first time, you may be forgiven for thinking that you had taken a step back in time to a long-lost era…

Over the centuries, many legendary figures have walked the Royal Mile’s hallowed cobbles; from romantic figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie to the sinister Burke & Hare and Deacon Brodie. The famous politician and republican leader James Connolly was a street sweeper here on the Royal Mile; whilst the reformist minister John Knox was a preacher at the High Kirk of St Giles, just a few yards up the road. The world’s first skyscrapers were built here with tenements soaring high above the Royal Mile and even higher from the adjacent Cockburn St. Much of the street is built on top of older streets and closes; some of which have been recently opened up for visitors to explore. The whole area is referred to as the “Old Town”.

Built next to the site of an ancient monastery, the Royal Mile Tavern is a traditional Scottish pub steeped in history, and is the only place to visit for those wanting to experience a true taste of the Royal Mile. The classic surroundings invoke a feeling of total comfort and luxury whilst retaining a traditional Edinburgh pub feel.