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Tolbooth

4.7
·303 reviews·, United Kingdom

A 16th-century former prison and courthouse on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, now a historic pub, art gallery, and intimate music venue.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Live music and pub atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Tolbooth - Image 1

Tolbooth

Best Time

Evenings

Live music and pub atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 16th-century former prison and courthouse on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, now a historic pub, art gallery, and intimate music venue.

4.7
(303 reviews)

"Feel the centuries of stories within its walls, from prison to pub."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Conquer the Stairs

Be ready for a climb! The modern staircase offers a workout with great views.

📅 Check Event Listings

See what's on! Live music and art shows make this historic spot even more special.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Tolbooth Tavern

Historic Tolbooth Tavern

Royal Mile, Edinburgh

A 16th-century building that's been a prison, courthouse, and now a cozy pub. Feel the centuries of stories within its walls.

Instagram+1
Canongate's Former Hub

Canongate's Former Hub

Canongate, Edinburgh

Once the center of the separate burgh of Canongate, this building boasts a distinctive clock tower and rich historical significance.

Instagram
Modern Art Gallery

Modern Art Gallery

Second Floor

Discover local art exhibitions in a serene gallery space, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate local talent.

Reddit
Intimate Music Venue

Intimate Music Venue

Main Hall

Experience live music in a unique, intimate setting. From country rock to folk, enjoy talented artists in a historic atmosphere.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History (and Stairs!)

The Tolbooth Tavern is steeped in history, dating back to 1591. Be prepared for stairs, as many visitors mention the climb, which can be a workout! TikTokReddit

Check Event Schedules

This historic building now serves as a vibrant music venue and gallery. Check their schedule for live performances and art exhibitions to make the most of your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Live music and pub atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Art gallery and cafe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wallace Monument has 246 stairs. I was unaware until we started climbing it 😭 #castle #stirling #glasgow #edinburgh #traveltips #traveltiktok #travel #traveltok #travellife #viralvideo #unitedkingdom #travelscotland
@curtisclan_
49.5K likes • 285.3K views

👟 Conquer the Stairs

Be ready for a climb! The modern staircase offers a workout with great views. TikTokReddit

📅 Check Event Listings

See what's on! Live music and art shows make this historic spot even more special. Reddit

#fyp #icantsee #windowtint#tollbooth #westvirginia
@littlepp420
37.7K likes • 1.2M views
Tolbooth Tavern ville vi besöka i Edinburgh och plötsligt stod vi utanför. Deras första kunder för dagen 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿❤️‍🔥 Det har varit pub här sen 1820 men byggnaden har funnits där sen 1591 och har varit fängelse, domstol och mycket annat. Mycket historia i de här väggarna det kändes. ⚔️🙏🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 www.alexurban.se #tolboothtavern #tolbooth #scotland #edinburgh #urbanstories
alex_urban_stories
29 likes • 325 views

☕ Cozy Cafe Experience

The cafe offers a serene escape with thoughtful music and delicious soup & toastie combos. Reddit

👻 Haunted History

Rumored to be haunted by former prisoners, embrace the spooky tales! Instagram

Tolbooth Tavern, Edinburgh, Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 #tolboothtavern #edinburghpubs #historicpubs #edinburghscotland #edinburghtravel #visitedinburgh #historylovers #historytravel #scotlandtravel
travellinghistory
16.6K likes • 412.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Conquer the Stairs

Be ready for a climb! The modern staircase offers a workout with great views. TikTokReddit

📅 Check Event Listings

See what's on! Live music and art shows make this historic spot even more special. Reddit

☕ Cozy Cafe Experience

The cafe offers a serene escape with thoughtful music and delicious soup & toastie combos. Reddit

👻 Haunted History

Rumored to be haunted by former prisoners, embrace the spooky tales! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(303 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Tolbooth Tavern for its incredible history, friendly staff, and vibrant atmosphere. It's lauded as a unique venue for live music and a cozy spot for a meal or drink, though some note the unexpected stair climb. TikTokReddit+1

"1st time at the venue and had a great night. Staff were great and Nati and her band were absolutely amazing. The support act Ili was great and had a fantastic voice. The Bar staff were very friendly and we will definitely be coming back for future events."

Barry Finlay

"Great venue with an amazing history.
The hill climb was unexpected and a great workout.
Nice intimate modern venue.
We seen a 3 piece country rock band."

Non Specified

"Another gig at the Tolbooth. A good show and great staff. A real shame that the council has stopped the £1 deposit on the plastic "glasses" from the bar though."

Duncan Hutchison

What People Like

Historic atmosphere
Friendly staff
Great live music

What People Dislike

Unexpected stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Tolbooth Tavern is conveniently located on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, making it easily accessible by foot from many city center attractions. Several bus routes also stop nearby along the Royal Mile. Instagram+1

Parking in Edinburgh's city center can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or walk if possible. Nearest car parks include Waverley Station or Holyrood Road. Instagram

While the ground floor cafe and bar are generally accessible, some visitors mention a modern staircase leading to upper levels. Staff have been noted for their helpfulness with mobility concerns. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the pub and cafe is generally free. However, for specific live music events or art exhibitions, tickets may be required. Check the Tolbooth's official schedule for details. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for the pub, cafe, and gallery. It's best to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening times for each area. Instagram

The art gallery often features local exhibitions, and while some may have a small entry fee, many are free to browse. It's advisable to confirm on the day of your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a drink at the historic pub, dine at the cozy cafe, explore art exhibitions in the gallery, or catch live music performances in the venue. Reddit+2

Absolutely! It's a historic pub with a great atmosphere, known for friendly staff and a unique setting. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Instagram+2

Yes, the Tolbooth often hosts art exhibitions in its gallery space, showcasing local artists. It's a great way to experience the cultural side of Edinburgh. Reddit

Yes, it's a well-regarded intimate music venue that hosts a variety of genres, from folk to rock. Many visitors praise the quality of the performances and the sound. Reddit+1

Originally built in 1591, it served as a prison, courthouse, and council chamber for the separate burgh of Canongate. It's one of Edinburgh's oldest buildings with a fascinating past. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and simple, delicious offerings. The soup and toastie combo is highly recommended, described as 'celestial'. Reddit

Yes, the cafe is often described as a serene and peaceful space, perfect for a quiet meal away from the city's hustle and bustle. Reddit

As a historic pub, you can expect a range of beers, spirits, and other beverages. They also serve coffee and other non-alcoholic options in the cafe. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior, especially the clock tower, is very photogenic. Inside, the modern staircase and historic pub interior offer unique shots. InstagramReddit

Yes, you are generally welcome to take photos inside, especially of the architecture and art. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific venue rules during events. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Tolbooth is primarily known for its pub and music venue, the cafe and art gallery can be family-friendly during the day. The cafe offers a peaceful spot for a snack, and the art exhibitions might engage older children. Be mindful that the historic nature means stairs are present, and the pub atmosphere might be more suited for adults. Reddit

If visiting with children, consider a daytime visit to explore the art gallery or enjoy a quiet meal at the cafe. The staff have been noted for their helpfulness, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed, especially with navigating the building. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Tolbooth offers several budget-friendly options. Visiting the pub for a drink or enjoying the cafe's affordable soup and toastie combo are great ways to experience the atmosphere without breaking the bank. Reddit

While live music events may have ticket prices, many art exhibitions are free or have a nominal fee. Walking to the Tolbooth along the Royal Mile also saves on transportation costs, making it an accessible attraction for budget-conscious explorers. Reddit+1

🏛️ History Buffs

This is a must-visit! The Tolbooth Tavern is a genuine piece of Edinburgh's history, dating back to 1591. Explore its past as a former prison, courthouse, and council chamber for the burgh of Canongate. Instagram+1

Immerse yourself in the stories of this ancient building. The architecture, including the clock tower, and the very atmosphere of the place transport you back in time. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with Edinburgh's rich heritage. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Edinburgh's Past

The Tolbooth Tavern is more than just a pub; it's a living piece of Edinburgh's history. Originally constructed in 1591, it served as the administrative and judicial heart of the then-separate burgh of Canongate. Its walls have witnessed centuries of legal proceedings, council meetings, and even served as a prison. The distinctive clock tower is a landmark that speaks to its former importance. Instagram+1

Today, this historic structure has been beautifully repurposed. While retaining its historical charm, it now functions as a vibrant hub for culture and entertainment. Visitors can step back in time by enjoying a drink in the pub, appreciating art in the gallery, or experiencing live music. The blend of its storied past with its modern use makes it a unique destination for any visitor to Edinburgh. Reddit+1

Many visitors are struck by the building's age and the stories it holds. The fact that it was once a prison adds a layer of intrigue, with some even suggesting it's haunted by former inmates. This historical depth is a significant draw for those interested in the rich tapestry of Edinburgh's heritage. Instagram

Experiencing Live Music and Art

The Tolbooth has carved out a niche as an intimate and highly regarded music venue. Audiences consistently praise the quality of the sound and the close proximity to the performers, creating a truly engaging experience. Whether it's a local folk band or a touring country-rock group, the atmosphere is often described as electric and memorable. Reddit+1

Beyond the music, the Tolbooth also serves as a platform for local artists. The gallery space provides a serene environment to view a rotating collection of artwork. This dual role as a cultural center means visitors can often enjoy a full day or evening of artistic and musical immersion. Reddit

Tips for attending events include checking the schedule in advance, as popular gigs can sell out. The intimate setting means you're always close to the action, making it a fantastic spot for discovering new talent or enjoying established artists in a unique historical backdrop. Reddit

The Tolbooth Cafe: A Serene Escape

For those seeking a quieter experience, the Tolbooth cafe offers a delightful respite. Described as 'cosy and serene,' it provides a peaceful atmosphere away from the usual tourist crowds. The thoughtful selection of indie and folk music playing in the background further enhances the tranquil ambiance. Reddit

The cafe is particularly noted for its simple yet exceptional food. The soup and toastie combination is a standout, earning rave reviews for its deliciousness. It's the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and soak in the unique character of the building. Reddit

This cafe is ideal for a leisurely lunch or a coffee break, offering a chance to appreciate the building's history from a more relaxed perspective. The friendly and generous nature of the staff, like cook Chloe, adds to the welcoming and calming experience. Reddit

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