This post has been sponsored by A&O hostels, and my stay/drinks at Bar 50 were complimentary, but all words and opinions are my own.

Edinburgh is a city soaked in culture, history and even a few surprises. From its iconic castle to the lively pubs and clubs, there’s so much to explore and discover.

I make no secret of the fact I’m a big cocktail lover, and having recently stayed at the a&o Hostel Edinburgh City, I made sure to visit some fun cocktail spots nearby. So, if you’re looking for a unique cocktail experience, here are some quirky spots you might wanna check out… (and you won’t even have to pay for taxis!)

Panda and Sons

📍 79 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF
👣 23 minute walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City

Potentially one of the coolest bars in the city, Panda and Sons is a modern speakeasy bar that looks like a barbershop from the outside, but soon becomes a charming place to drink, complete with authentic taxidermy and secret doors (what more could you want?!!). They serve up incredibly innovative cocktails that are sure to impress any cocktail-lover and make for the perfect Instagram pics.

Department of Magic

📍 9 Blair St, Edinburgh EH1 1QR
👣 3 minute walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City

From the outside, Department of Magic looks like a tiny shop that passers by would probably not notice. Don’t be fooled though… this charming pub promises a cosy atmosphere and a selection of magical shots and cocktails. The best part? You get to brew the magical cocktail potions yourself! You’ll be presented with vials, spirits, dry ice, and instructions. The rest is up to you. Whip up a tasty potion and get supping!

Frankenstein & Bier Keller

📍 26 George Iv Bridge, Old Town, Edinburgh EH1 1EN
👣 7 minute walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City

If you’re looking for a spooky evening out, this is the place for you! Named after the famous horror novel, Frankenstein pub is located in a 150 year old church, full of gothic decor and horror themed decorations… You might even get lucky and witness a ghoulish show or catch a glimpse of the monster himself. They have an extensive list of cocktails for you to sup on through the night, and you can even throw some shapes on their dance floor if you fancy a boogie with your drink!

Hoot the Redeemer

📍 7 Hanover Street, Edinburgh EH2 2DL
👣 13 minute walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City

Step back in time and embrace vintage funfair surroundings at Hoot the Redeemer. This quirky bar is found underground and offers an array of cocktails that are sure to satisfy anybody’s taste buds. It makes for the perfect place to sit back and chill out with good friends and music. You’re in for an extra treat if you have a sweet tooth… they even offer alcoholic ice cream!

The Cauldron

📍 57A Frederick Street, Edinburgh EH2 1LH
👣 19 minute walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City

Decked out with all sorts of whimsical decorations, cauldrons, and potion bottles, The Cauldron is a unique bar offering a magical experience, and is a Potterhead’s dream! They serve up a range of cocktails inspired by the wizarding world, and even offer potion making classes, complete with cloaks, wands, and magical instructions.

Bar 50

📍 50 Blackfriars Street, Edinburgh EH1 1NE
👣 30 second walk from a&o Hostel Edinburgh City!

Nestled beneath the hostel itself, Bar 50 is a friendly bar offering an eclectic mix of shots, spirits, beers, and – of course – cocktail pitchers! They constantly have a good mix of events, offers and deals to keep things fresh, and you’ll be sure to have  hell of a good night on a small budget… sounds like a dream, right?!! To top things off, they have a fab food selection to go alongside your drinks, pool tables for those of you who want to get competitive, and a team of warm and friendly staff to serve you.

Which one will you be visiting first?