What makes it 83% Solo-Friendly: Nightly free or low-cost rock gigs, karaoke and open-mic give a solo traveler lively entertainment and easy socializing, and bar staff happily advise on affordable whiskies.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to enjoy live music, try a whisky dram, join karaoke or play pool without rushing.
Live Music Nights:
Attend free local band sets in the intimate cellar space six nights a week.
Tip: Check the online schedule to know which nights require a ticket (£10–£13) and which are free entry.
Karaoke Tuesdays:
Sign up for complimentary karaoke to perform on stage.
Tip: Arrive early to reserve your song slot and meet fellow solo singers.
Open Mic Sundays:
Watch or join local singers and performers at the weekly open mic.
Tip: Bring a small donation to support artists and spark conversations afterward.
Whisky Chat:
Sample regional malts and special bottlings from the bar’s whisky list.
Tip: Ask the bartender for a sampler flight or their top recommendation based on your taste.
Pool Table Hire:
Play pool in the relaxed lounge area.
Tip: Use a game as an icebreaker to chat with locals; tables cost around £3 per hour.

Martin McCue
This is a live music institution! Such a cool spot. Friendly bartenders and staff! If in Edinburgh and a music fan, stop here. You can even swing by for a pint if music isn’t your thing! No food served, just good times!
Kyle Harris
I found my way to this great little bar on my trip to Edinburgh. As soon as I walked through the door I was greeted with great music, warmth and good beer. The locals really made the place welcoming to a "southerner" like me (southern by Edinburgh standards, being from Yorkshire and all). I even managed to meet The Stoaters who were a good bunch and I fully intend to have gander at your music. Ba...
Aodhán R
Genuinely a nice place with good people inside the bar, plenty of rockers. There’s a great little space out the back for small gigs. One of the bartenders, a shorter man with a bald head and a piercing, was extremely rude (random and unprovoked) for reasons I couldn’t quite understand – if you’re having a bad day, it’s best not to project that onto your customers. If you don't enjoy working, then ...
Daniel Kuschny
great rock&metal bar with live music, great selection of beers. no food tough. Two days ago (on my birthday) I was in the other two popular metal&rock bars around here and was a bit disapointed (wednesday might ;_ the reason), this place definitely made it all up. 10/10, will come again. +live movies on Tv (Predator with Arnie, another plus as I am from Austria 🤣🤪)
stan mooney
Didn't get food, was there to see Hawklords, with the added bonus of Marley Davidson. They were both fantastic and the venue was great, it is a small cellar room with an arched cobblestone roof, the sound was very good, vocals could have been a bit louder ( or god forbid the instruments a bit lower) it was a great gig. The two negative aspects were. Firstly the gents toilet was stinking, it was cl...
During the Edinburgh Festival in August, shows book out fast and some gigs switch to paid entry. Check ticket requirements and arrive early to avoid queues.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pint of real ale | GBP 4.5 |
| Whisky dram | GBP 6 |
| Pool table hire (1 hour) | GBP 3 |
| Ticketed gig | GBP 12 |
| Snack (burger or sandwich) | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 30.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Address: 212 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1NQ, UK
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Bannerman's Bar (Edinburgh)?
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 556 325410 BEST nearby Activities
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities