Reviews of Sandy Bell's. (Pub) in Edinburgh (Edinburgh).

Sandy Bell's

0 Reviews

388 Comments

Pub

Live music bar

25 Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QH, United Kingdom

Description

Information of Sandy Bell's, Pub in Edinburgh (Edinburgh)

On this page you’ll find the address, open hours, more popular times, the contact, photos and real reviews of this business.

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Map

Open hours of Sandy Bell's

Popular times

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Monday

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Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Reviews of Sandy Bell's

K. P.

Me and my friend had a fantastic time at this pub, where the style represents the city of Edinburgh! This includes the frames, arch and the counter's layout, where we were served by lovely staff. They were a bit delayed due to a heavy crowd but understandable and I enjoyed the Edinburgh Gin, situated comfortably at a clean table!

R. H.

Sandy bells is an Edinburgh institution! Most nights there are traditional music sessions, which combine with a great atmosphere to provide a welcoming and relaxing bar. Great range of Scottish whiskies and beer/ale/cider. Friendly bar staff are just one of the reasons this pub should not be missed if you are visiting Edinburgh!

G. D.

Great live folk music, great real life folk too. You can be sure of a warm welcome

D. D.

The typical Scottish pub in Edinburgh. You can drink here and listen to typical Scottish music. A wonderful place not far from the centre. Very nice owner. Really suggested!

N. K.

A famous Edinburgh institution and one of a dying breed of pubs where people from every walk of life mix. Has great music but be careful not to take pictures or film the musicians without asking. Many are professional and don't necessarily want to be recorded when relaxing and not playing to performance stage standard.

D. H.

Fantastic atmosphere and friendly staff and locals, we had a great night listening to live music. We will be back!

E. B.

A fantastic selection of whiskies, wonderful atmosphere, and a great crowd. To top it off, the live music is ethereal. I'll be returning to Sandy Bell's, and so should you.

B. I. S.

A local gem, a the singer and a "crowd" of 8 younger people were super drunk at 19:30 on a thursday, when we stepped in. The vibe was great and very funny, the drinks were good, feels like a unique local bar that got a little too famous for a long time but it´s still worth a try.

D. O.

Cosy little pub with music sessions. Little bit on dear side regarding price of drinks. Bar staff friendly. Big let down was the manager in waistcoat who was smoking electronic cigarettes, drinking beer and spending most of his time on smartphone, while pretending to work behind the counter. Did not give good impression at all.

P. H.

Another visit to this pub, love it, good beer and good crack from the regulars. Some good singers/band's to listen too aswell, and it's dog friendly. Worth checking it out.

C. B.

Great place for live music and a cold nice beer

M. W.

Just adding a bit of a reference point to balance the comments about masks. Also in a busy bar with only one member of staff working they may not look directly at you when explaining something to you as they may also be serving 3 people at once

c. S.

Tenants rating.. Plus the overall Bar Overall pint 9.5 Overall taste 8.9 Tidelines 9.5 never even managed to catch a photo they where nearly spot on. Venue 10/10 folk music playing and singing Well reccomend hidden jem ;)

A. E. B.

Very nice and cozy pub close to the city centre. They have live irish music and a good selection of beers and gins. Totally recommended

D. V.

We really enjoyed our time here! I found a recommendation for Sandy's Bell on an Edinburgh Things To Do blog and I'm so glad we stopped in. The live music was lovely, and the people were so friendly. We planned to go for an hour, and ended up staying all evening!

R. G.

Busy, noisy, crowded but great music and a friendly mixed crowd. The musicians wandered in and out at will. All acoustic with more the feel of a kitchen jam session than an organised performance - which was great. The bass player/fiddler was great - so versatile and inventive! The lady on the fiddle was an obvious talent and at times I found myself holding my breath. Kind of overwhelmed the mandolin player. I would have liked to hear more of his contribution but that may have been partly due to where I was sitting. Truly enjoyable!

S. N.

Had a lovely time. They were playing instruments in the back tables. Hard to hear until you get right to the back. Not much room for dancing but the drinks are good.

J. D.

Went by chance on a Friday night and was able to hear a relaxed folk music session. Lovely atmosphere, friendly staff and good beer!

K. S.

Sandy bells is a small wee bar off the meadows! Great place for a quick pint or on certain a days you can catch some traditional music being played! Definitely worth a visit! Look out for the friendly white dog !

A. N.

Authentic nice pub. Great feel and mood. Superb selections of whiskys, and Beers. Nice and helpful staff. Daily folk music by local people.

L. W.

Beautiful pub with super accommodating staff, definitely recommend. The kind of charm that brings out the best conversation !

M. H.

Nice live music of local artist. Just walking in and starting to play. Met nice people here and had a very good time. Also the Guiness here is great, so is the steak pie.

A. P. A.

The staff is so friendly and helpful. There's live traditional music, and it looks like it's a local go-to place. Loved it.

T. H.

This is a nice traditional looking pub, plenty of dark wood, and a good selection of beers. When I visited there was a fiddle session going on in the back room, perfect for a relaxing afternoon drink.

G. M.

If you want to go to a place where you can really have evenings that worth it, you better go to Sandy's Bell. It's not just a bar, is a place where people actually live. Prices are good, whiskey of the house is awesome. And even if I live far, I'm coming back soon.

S. R. H.

If you want to see real folk musicians go there. Nice environment. Try to arrive before the show begins as the place is small and gets crowded

G. F.

Excellent no nonsense pub, £3.55 a pint of Caledonian best reasonable price, but the winner for me was the minced lamb curry pie with spinach, it was the business. I will definitely be back.

P. H.

Lovely people, wonderful music, cosy wood burning stove, good drinks, tasty pies, dog friendly ...

F.

Fantastic traditional pub serving a brilliant selection of whisky and pies.

D. H.

Good mix of locals and tourists. OK beer selection. If you're not into random musicians starting up a few songs this isn't the place for you.

T. S.

Absolutely cracking place. Good beer, great tunes and live music every night. Only downside: barstaff surprisingly unwilling to give personal dances. Was asked to leave quite abruptly.

S. N.

Fabulous wee pub, quite central location, and got amazing collection of whisky's. This is the 1000th review I think - woohoo!!

M. C.

This is a great pub but is not over sized so not a lot of seats

A. S.

Went in to have a drink of whisky. I have never seen such a large selection, but we are in Scotland. The customers were so nice and helped us to learn how to drink a proper whisky.

P. D. L. N.

As usual for a Saturday night, there was a trio of folk musicians that enhanced the atmosphere, which was pretty good and welcoming. The barman service was almost non existent (no eye contact, no acknowledging the punters ...basically no service unless you wave in front of his face)

K. O.

The craic is good. Small pub with daily live folk music and an awesome whisky selection.

E. M.

Very nice little pub with a good selection of whiskey. Authentic feel with sporadic live music. Super service and good atmosphere.

V. C.

Found it to be great for a quiet pint. Made to feel welcome with good choice of beers and spirits. Covid19 safety adhered too

S. R.

Famous bar for music. Great atmosphere and friendly staff. Usually busy. But if you get a seat you will be there all night.

C. J.

Excellent place! Courteous and helpful bar staff, great choice of drinks, and traditional Scottish music. Wonderful evening had by all

A. K. R.

Great value for money. Great folk music and nice drinks. And you know they are not smooching off of you. A 35cl drink here is 35cl only. Can be more but not less

M. C.

Should have 6 stars. Great range of whiskys, barmaid friendly and helpful. The music is fabulous... live folk music at its best.

A. F.

A good choice or beers and live music most nights, friendly staff as well.

C.

all week Scotish music and variety of drinks

H. T.

One of the best places to hear Trad music. Bartenders are nice. One of the lady bartenders though can come across tough. Ignored us for a bit and finally got our order taken by the guy behind the bar. No harm, no foul. We've visited twice a few years apart and the same white dog showed up both times. He is super friendly and so cute. I will definitely go back next time im in town.

M. M.

great traditional music, but the pub is tiny and usually busy, so dont expect a seat. Also has good selection of real ales

K. C.

Sandy bells will always have a place in my heart! So fantastic! The music is amazing and when the beer flows its a great time. Love from canada

S.

Small folk pub with great character; no juke box, no fruit machines, just live folk music and conversation. Generally a great vibe from this place and well worth the trip out of the city centre.

M. W.

Perfect cosy place to enjoy a beer with a great atmosphere.music some evenings..🥃

L.

Lovely pub with traditional folk music every night from around 9 or 9:30pm. Contrary to some of the other reviews, they do serve soup and a sandwich, but that's all the food there is.

L. S.

Just as advertised: people playing music together in a pub including a singer with a beautiful voice. Thank you, madam! Highlight of the day for this pair of American tourists.

D. H.

Unfortunately, Edinburghs iconic trad folk pub is a tad unwelcoming. Staff usually ok but resting on laurels. Musicians like their clique and often dismissive of other pub users.

K. M. C.

An off season gem! This place is genuinely the home of folk and is part of legend. However it’s unpleasantly hoaching with people during mad season so I’d recommend a daytime or midweek visit, or to go off-season.

A. A.

The best scotish pub in Edinburgh if you likento have a scotish beer or whiskey with Scot music😍😍😍 scotish folk music played here everyday! 5min walk from the city centre!

A. B.

a very cute place with some good (and fairly original) live music👍🏼

J. V.

Lovely pub, no music during the day, that starts at aroun 18:30 Very friendly staff who will help with your exploration of whiskey and whiskey. Their rum selection is great as is the gin. The pies are home made and superb, both the pasty and the filling. The gravy is heavenly.

G. W.

Essential Edinburgh bar for anyone into traditional Scottish music. Friendly service and a good range of beers and whiskies.

A. J.

Great little place with live folk music and extensive selection of drinks. Crowded, but with civilised, middle aged folks enjoying a drink with their music.

D. G.

A finer boozer's boozer you'll be unlikely to find. Authentic and traditional pub for allcomers. Usually live trad and folk music being played session style through the back.

S. C.

Great traditional pub. Excellent selection of beers and local scottish lagers. Noticed loads of whisky too (if that's your thing)

N. S.

Brilliant atmosphere, great friendly crowd, good drinks and prices. Terrific live music.

A. K.

Fantastic local pub, excellent customer service and they even have an occasional bar dog, Kilo! I very much enjoyed it, and would come back in the future.

I. B.

A small, friendly combination between a local and an attraction for the folk music. Good, cheap ales, great selection of whiskeys and kind people make for a great establishment

R. M.

Super, atmospheric establishment, friendly staff, excellent beer and a wheelchair accessible loo. Brilliant.

M. T.

Great pub for music. Love it. Friendly inclusive high quality sessions. Different genres and styles at different times. Check the website.

A. B.

Cheap whiskey and live music from this iconic little bar. It's a little pokey, but excellent if you want to have a proper Scottish night out.

A. D.

It’s a tiny little bar with wonderful & best friendly staff in whole Edinburgh They have a huge huge drinks list at a very very reasonable price If you get confused or ant sure what you want to have the team will not only help you out but also give you an insight of the drink; they are very very knowledgable It is called as the folk music hub Please please visit them if you are in Edinburgh They really need our love & support to continue the beautiful Scottish Folk music heritage

M. S.

A great bar, with regular live folk music. It can get a bit cramped and sweaty when busy, but it's friendly and fun!

J. C.

A bar you could walk into without hassle walkins encouraged staff brilliant .Great pub

E. A.

Was a great local pub but we went for the folk music on a Saturday night; there were a few players in the back room but could barely hear them in the bar area

P. L.

Classic spot. Good beer. Good crowd, and the laid back live folk music was brilliant. There's even a dog by the fire.

M. A.

Sandy Bell's manages to attract music-loving tourists while not putting off the locals. Great vibe, plus no complaints about the selection of spirits!

L. K.

The music was great and there was an adorable bulldog

G. K.

Cozy pub, great craft beers, live music.

D. W.

Couple decent beers, good service, nice range of whiskies and usually some music. Always worth popping in.

P. W.

Excellent place with no tourists (for now anyway), keep suppoting your local pubs.

F. W.

Me and my friend were looking for a place to play an instrument- ended up having my first shot of a double bass and playing with some great musicians, great pub

G. B.

The best bar i have ever been. Amazing live folk Schotch music and very tasty food and drink.

C. S.

Lovely spot, fab live music but service a bit slow and lacking the charm of yore. Perhaps it was an off night. Would definitely return though. Prices reasonable too.

A. F.

Classic old town Edinburgh pub a favourite for locals and tourists alike. Great place to meet new people and have interesting conversations.

K. K.

Nice pub a local recommended to us with live folk music every day. Not very big but awesome.

A. D.

Managed to snag a table and listen to some music. Not a bad price for beer, and the music is great. Make sure to get a table early though it fills up quick.

D. M.

This is where I learned to love cask beer. Sandy’s Bell was the perfect place to explore a new genre. Atmosphere is great with a local crowd.

L. P.

Great wee bar with pleasant staff. Toilets could do with a spruce up though.

A. R.

Want to taste the edinburgh life? Order your beer, take a seat and enjoy the traditional scottish music in this small great pub

l. l.

Excellent traditional music and very warm Scottish atmosphere. I would definitely recommend this place for locals and tourists!

W. T.

Great Music, great atmosphere, quality cider at a good price. Lovely afternoon catching up with friends

T. M.

Always a good time at Sandy Bell's. Also the home of the best home made pie in Edinburgh ;)

N. L.

Fantastic authentic pub with a genuine atmosphere. Bar staff going the extra mile. Highly recommended.

Y. F.

Friendly pub with relaxed local music talent

M. C.

A real Edinburgh pub. No food, no gimmicks, no tourists. Keep it up. We don't need any more places to eat.

C. C.

The Edinburgh Session pub. Always good music especially if you are a musician too. Can be too full to move at busy times.

M. A.

Great beer, great gin, live music and amazing interior, we felt very much at home! (and the cheese and garlic toast is great)

G. H.

Really enjoyed this place. They have music daily at 9 :30 pm but get there early if you want a seat.

A. B.

Superb Guinness. Great folk music from 9pm

P. G.

Delightful pub with a long history, dedicated to folk music. Good taps, dog friendly and very friendly.

S. D. P.

Amazing beers! Fantastic traditional atmosphere with folk Scottish live music! Highly recommended!!!

M. B.

Amazing atmosphere, people and staff. Really natural, proper pub as pubs should be. Edinburgh favourite no1

z.

Must go to have a nice whiskey! Especially on Friday and Saturday some musicians may play some folk tunes and you ll enjoy a lot!

J. O.

Great pub with brilliant live music after 9pm

E. z.

Amazing music and the staff are very friendly and chatty even to whiskey noobs like myself! Had a great time.

S. A. G.

I lived a fantastic experience in this Pub. I was drinking a paint and some guys came and started playing Folk. they were two good hours of my life.

A. B.

Fantastic, very friendly staff, made you feel very much at home We returned after our show for the music. superb. Defo a return.

J. D.

A fabulous local bar in the heart of the city . Great staff and service good drinks and pies, very friendly crowd.

J. T.

Great environment and music. I enjoyed the traditional local environment.

M. M.

Great pub to mix with locals & enjoy live folk musicians. Well worth a visit

S. S.

Doctor's is better if you want a less cramped space and Malone's is better if you want to watch matches but they're all fun really.

N. M.

Bit of music, bit of craic. Friendly bar. Good way to spend an afternoon

T. D. M.

Great pub. Very welcoming staff, great beer and top live music

j. b.

When you go to Edinburgh, Scotland Sandy Bells is a must go to pub. Folk music every day, no cover charge. A slice of old Edinburgh.

F. A.

Great place for drinks and listen to local music

L. Č.

It was our first visit in Edinburgh so we were looking for a pub with traditional look. Sandy bell’s was a best choice. We got some beer and many kinds of scotch whisky. Live folk music created a great atmosphere. I would like to repeat it.

E. M. (. L.

Awesome quirky live music bar, superb selection of whiskies and the staff know their stuff.

S. J.

Nice little place with live music, full of locals, friendly bartenders, got lots of Whiskey knowledge!

G. W. M.

Excellent music fantastic staff great prices for drink not like other bars in the area

D. R.

Nice friendly pub good selection of beers and spirits

I. J. M.

There is a dog, he said "hello, and a-welcome to my little corner of Edinburrrgh, choose a whisky - we have many, have a pie, drink WOOF be merry! Pass down your scraps, sit back, relax, and listen to our folky tracks"

N. P.

Lovely atmosphere, great folk music and the selection of beer is good too

S. C.

Great pub. You gotta catch the music here. A must visit if you’re in Edinburg

D. P.

Love it! Great whisky and beer selection. Best thing the live music

M. J.

Nice little pub in general. Went to listen to some live music there. Was severely let down by how overcrowded it got.

J. O.

Excellent beers & whiskies with attentive staff but in a quite small venue.

J. T.

What a great bar, this place has it all! I would highly recommend coming here if you need a drink

D. M. (. M. L.

An institution in the world of traditional music sessions. Lovely wee pub as well.

L. M.

One of the best traditional music pubs in Edinburgh...and the beer is good too 🍺

N. C.

Fantastic establishment. Live music, good folk, and a quality selection of drink.

J. G. (.

Nice pub nice staff and friendly locals, spent many lunch breaks getting a swift one here and it never disappoints.

M. F.

Fun experience! Salt of the earth pub with soulful musicians.

M. M.

Not too big, can be quite crowded, there is a nice atmosphere and some nice live concerts

L. E.

Great atmosphere, kind and helpful people behind the bar. Live music was great

D. W.

Great beer, friendly, no booking required.

J. S.

Just an old fashioned pub with a great ambiance...

T. G.

Great pub to have a pint and listen to traditional folk music!

M. G.

We were there on Thursday afternoon. The place and music were amazing, but the best was the bartender, she (I forget to ask her name) treated us very well, and was super kind. She explained me a couple of things about the whisky and the beers, and give us some recommendations. I hope to return the favour if you come to the south of Spain!

A. M.

Great wee bar. Good whisky selection and some great folk music.

S. S.

Quintessential Scottish pub. Good music at night. And the pies are tasty.

S. C.

Wednesday night is the best night for music from Adam and co. playing great music and Chris Miles singing

X. D.

Very warm atmosphere. Loved the Scottish fiddlers.

B. B.

Good beer. Great atmosphere. Live music. What is there not to like?

K. B.

Traditional live music, in a classic pub with reasonable prices and kind and nice bar tenders

I. n.

Great atmosphere good range of real ales tasty steak pies. Live music. And the banter...

R. R.

Amazing traditional venue, great beers and live music for wonderful moments

I. B.

Traditional nice pub with live celtique people playing live music in the evenings, sometimes acompaigned of joreign traditional musicians

m. t.

If you are wondering how a real Scottish pub is, this is the place you are looking for. Most of nights you can find live folk music. A must visit.

b. a.

Quaint little place. Not much to offer on terms of food. But you go there for the atmosphere. Every evening there is a folk band playing local music. And good selection of beer and drinks. a definite for music lovers.

k. o.

Nice and friendly had a good talk with the team behind the bar. Well done.

D. E.

Legendary folk pub with good beers and great selection of whisky 🥃

S. D.

Excellent as always. Sandy Bells is an Edinburgh institution. A must visit. Great bar staff.

N.

Nice pub food, great range of drinks, relaxed but can get very loud!

B. W.

So friendly and knowledgeable about all of their beers and whiskeys. I wish I was a local so I could come more often!

A. C.

Great place! We have fun and drink whisky ! We really enjoy that

S. S.

Pub xlose to main attractions and National Museum of Scotland. Need to come back when there is music on because was a bit disappointed.

R. M.

Fine traditional music every night and one of the best pints of Deuchars IPA to be had.

M. M.

Brilliant pub with live folk music and a great selection of drinks.

S. G.

A real pub with fantastic people, drinks and atmosphere. Not for everyone but that's just fine!

B. B.

Brilliant pub with great music , staff and Guinness. Even do hot pies ! Must visit in Edinburgh

D. S.

Great little pub, for sure a hidden gem. And the prices are very reasonable.

K. D. M.

I've visited this pub many many years ago and was part of its regular clientelle, and to come back and find myself warmly greeted by the new friendly bar staff, amazed me ...

K. B.

Very cosy and authentic Scottish pub. Love coming here with friends for a pint

D. H.

Folk music pub with a great atmosphere and a wide and varied clientele.

a. c. s.

Good staff, beer n music

T. B.

Good welcoming pub , was a little disappointed in advertised music on offer

B. M.

Great pint and good music....

J. W.

Traditional old pub, when the musicians gather atmosphere superb.

G.

Pub filled with locals! It's as well a venue for concerts. Large choice of beers and whiskey. Friendly staff.

E. F.

Best traditional pub in town. It hasn't changed in last 20 years

M. v. R.

Lovely folks! Great music! Small bar but worth it!! My favorite place for a pint in Edinburgh!!

N. B.

I love this place, nice people and folk music, very original, it's a must go in Edinburgh

s. r.

Great music and conversation. Can get crowded quickly in such a wee pub though.

I. M.

Music pub with great staff. Can get very busy.

s. d.

Fun night out good service when you can get to the bar. Local and students mix.

K. C.

Quaint oldy worldly pub. Lovely friendly landlord

E. Y.

Best informal music sessions in city.

R. I.

Great evening in this small pub, listening to traditional folk music and drinking whisky from all over Scotland.

C. S.

Great place to go the evening for Scottish folk music. Friendly pub

P. B.

Lovely traditional pub with friendly staff and customers

E. W.

Great traditional pub with incredible whiskey and trad music.

S. S.

Great little pub with friendly staff and patrons.

A. C.

Would definitely go again. Good beers and whiskeys galore

L. F.

Nice beers. Great traditional music. A fantastic discovery for us french people.

J. S.

Very local and typical pub. Great place for traditional folk music

F. M.

Small pub, with live music. Sometimes it gets too crowded, but it is surely one of my favourite pubs in Edinburgh!

L. v. d. B.

Lovely local pub. Very small but full of character.

a. j.

The pub was super crowded and dogs all over. Was not very good experience. Music wasn’t mound enough for all to hear.

P. M.

If you want a proper pub in Edinburgh this is the place to go. Great craic.

j. m.

Really good place, it's really friendly and really good live music :D

C. S.

Best traditional old pub in Edinburgh. Sessions make that place very special.

Z.

Great traditional music, comfortable upscale pub environment.

p. j. O.

Really nice place if you like Scottish Whisky and folk music. A wide selection and generous portions of whisky. Live Scottish music session every Sunday at four.

S. B.

Amazing place if you want a taste of traditional folkmusic in edinburgh.

M. S.

Very friendly people, multiple cask ales, draught, and bottles. Scotch whiskey selection and other spirits. Bring cash.

s. m.

Always pop in there when I'm in Edinburgh. Good atmosphere and great music...

P. C.

The only food they do is pies, but they are very good. Good range of beers, friendly staff and locals.

J. P.

Great atmosphere and live music. A must go to for a great night out.

C. M.

Fun folk and blues experience for a traveling American. Small but cozy and good vibes.

C. M.

Live music can't be beat, gets a little crowded but you can usually find a space

e. r.

Historical folk music pub, best music players from all over the world pops in to perform spontaneous by chance

E. D.

Live folk music every night and a fantastic selection of whisky. What could be better?

C.

Great atmosphere, traditional Scottish pub and Ales.

C. L.

The staff are brilliant, taking the time to find the whiskey that's more suited to my tastes. Atmosphere was great, the music is fun and lively - who doesn't love an accordion!!

A. C.

Traditional Scottish music and lovely atmosphere. Close to city centre. N

M. R.

Nice and quiet during the day, not been in at night, been told quite busy when music on.

W. K.

Nice place, nice live music but way too little space

D.

One of the best with live music and a broad Variety of whiskies. Maybe a bit crammed often

V. W.

An Edinburgh institution - good beer and traditional music!

E. B.

Brilliant value, fun and intimate place with good ale and Whisky

J. B.

Great authentic music. Reasonable drink prices.

V. S.

Small, nice pub, good whisky choice for reasonable prices

a. C.

Great selection of whisky, historical bar great service and staff

B. O.

Great Live music! Great selection of beer and lovely homemade pies

F. T.

A place I will never forget! The better place in Edingurgh to listen to live traditionnal music. They have a great choice of scotch whisky and the staff his very friendly.

M. M.

Cosy little bar with a great range of ales and splendid music.

P. P.

Had a wonderful evening at sandy bells, very friendly people and really enjoyed the live folk music

M. D.

Great Pub, good soup for lunch too. A word of warning, this pub only accepts cash.

J. A.

Fabulous place! Don't really want to give a good review incase it gets too busy!

T. G.

Loved the wee place, music alive, nice cider and pie, lovely people!

G. S.

Good live music and drinks. Excellent on a weekend

H. M.

Typical pub with live music. Go listen, have a beer and enjoy

J. Á. E.

Good live music and nice whiskey selection!

D. D.

Wonderful music, good beer & great friendly service.

Z. M.

Quant little bar, 4 or 5 casks on. Live music at 9pm every night. Takes cards

D. C.

We enjoyed the pub. We Went before any music acts, but enjoyed chatting with a regular and the bartender. Treated kindly. It is small so not a lot of sitting area and they do not serve food so eat before you go.

T. M.

A great pub with friendly people! I went to many pubs while visiting Edinburgh, probably around 20, all highly rated. This is the spot that really gave the full experience. Quick service, friendly patrons, musicians and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect spot to duck into when the rain starts and enjoy a pint.

M. H.

Love it! Great live music

E. P.

Smelly and old fashioned pub. Lot of character in the middle of the old town in Edinburgh.

S. F.

Brilliant real ale pub serving quality Scottish craft beer

M.

Lovely little pub. Cask ale and scrumpy cider.

R. B.

Great traditional pub with live folk music

J. C.

Loved it. Great beer, whisky and music. What more could a man want.

I. C. L.

Historical pub. One of the best folk music pubs in Scotland

B. B.

Local pub where musicians gather for traditional music jam session. The real deal in Edinburgh.

m. h.

Good music, good whisky

a. n.

A very cozy place, with welcoming staff and the atmosphere is really special.

T. C.

Lovely little local pub, friendly people, big selection of whiskeys. Nice live folk music as well, would deffo recommend for a pint.

K. A. A.

Good place. every evening folk music is played by people

P. P.

Great drinks, friendly, music every night.

L.

Interesting! They play folk music on the back but it is impossible to listen. Ambience is too loud...

D. C.

Great music, tasty pies and beer, friendly staff

P. A.

Great range of ales and friendly staff. Check it out

O. B.

Really cosy pub with live music. Very local feeling

T. K.

Cool little pub with live music and friendly people.

K. I.

Great music and creative place

K. M.

Great pub, traditional music a must do in Edinburgh

T. A.

Great pint at reasonable prices.A bit quiet on the day I visited but worth a visit

V. K.

Wonderful little place with big heart and great real live music

D. M.

Great traditional Edinburgh pub. Fantastic range of beers

P. B.

Interesting little pub apparently lots of history.

D. D.

Modest space with friendly staff and good live music.

B. M.

Great Guinness and great music

J. M.

Well known for folk music, but was so busy we couldn't hear it!

V. P.

It's a pub....it doesn't try to be anything else. It's a great place

A. M.

Proper friendly, traditional pub with folk in the corner.

L. K.

Nice place, good music, great atmosphere :)

A. D.

Good folk music but too crowded to properly appreciate.

M. N.

Excellent atmosphere, drink selection and service

B. J. R.

Honestly such a lovely local whiskey bar, me & my partner loved the place, locals were so friendly, plenty of whiskeys to sample and live folk music... a absolute must in my eyes if you ever visit Edinburgh

B. L.

Great friendly pub and friendly staff 👍

J. W.

Lovely staff and very cheap drinks!

A. W.

Warm, cozy place for whiskey, veer ans goos music and times.

D.

Great wee pub in town with plenty of good trad sessions

g. m.

Traditional old style pub with live folk music sessions.

j.

Loved it. Live music and good ale.

K.

Great place to have drink and folk music.

C.

Lovely folk pub with great drink selection

O. P.

Live folk music and nice people. Recommended!

G. C.

It was a lovely place with a welcoming atmosphere. I'll definitely come back.

H. M. M.

Nice folk pub for a bit of music and a beer. Crowded but cosy, the bar staff are nice and the drinks are reasonable.

G. N.

Best Guinness in Edinburgh and great live music

S. T. M. W.

One of the best and authentic folk venues in the world.

J. C.

Lovely pub. Mark was a legend!

G. G.

Small pub full of lovers of beer, whisky and folk music

L. M.

Great music. The best in Edinburgh. XXX

M. Z.

Great place for a drink any time of day.

N. C.

Great traditional boozer with a good mixed clientele and great staff.

V. G.

This should be a mandatory stop in Edinburgh

E. M.

Folk traditional Scottish jam session every night. What's not to love?

D. R.

Music great service brilliant however men's toilets a disgrace.

O. G.

Very nice place, a cozy wee little bar with extraordinary folk music and friendly people. Good price on drinks. The best place with live music that we found.

A. H.

Really nice place with authentic scotisch music.

N. M.

Lovely friendly wee bar with good music

L. S.

Local folk music, friendly atmosphere

M. H.

One of the most revered folk music pubs in the world

B. H.

Love this place. A bit tricky getting a spot near the music.

B.

Brilliant place! Great live music

J. P.

Good selection of whiskey +live music

H. B.

Great pub good time had by all

D. K. R.

Nice cost place to spend a couple of hours and you might catch a tune or two

P. M.

Great selection of ales and the music was also great

e. h.

A clearly historic and well-loved pub. We had a walking tour with Mountebank Walking Tours and Daniel highly recommended this place. Unfortunately we didn’t get to see any live music when we were there (if you, like us, really wanted to see this, it might be best ringing ahead and finding out what time they have bands playing). However, the staff were very friendly and it was great to relax and have a drink!

m. w.

Great atmosphere, great entertainment and great beer.

T. K.

Nice pub!

J. H.

A pub with a history. Live folk music, beer and whisky. Can't get much better.

J. M.

Lovely beer. Lovely music. Lovely bar

P. H.

Very busy standing room only on a Saturday night. Wouldn't rush back

f. k.

Lovely pub, live local music

G. S.

Quaint place, crowded, but difficult to see or hear musicians.

I. M.

Friendly staff but dour place.

T. H.

Great cosy place for evening chat and beer.

R. O.

Decent little pub with live music

H. T.

Music is great, decor is great, atmosphere is great, staff are great! And they have a dog! Such a great place to visit - absolutely brilliant!

M. H.

All round great bar, truly a global reputation

S. “. F.

great traditional atmosphere here and friendly staff

K. M.

Very cosy with great live music

J. P.

Best place for Guiness. Good atmosphere.

a. b.

Normally packed, if you can get to the back then listen for the music.

c. h.

great live folk and whiskey selection

J. V. L.

Fun gathering place great improve music

I. N.

A wee pub with live music. At times it get really congested.

G. L.

Very nice music and friendly place.

R. K.

First class staff! Be sound and be treated sound

E. B.

We love this place! Excellent staff, friendly and knowledgeable about whisky, gin and more. The music is wonderful. Not too loud to still have a conversation. We met some characters here.

V. V. G.

Great local establishment. A great point o Guinness

J. E.

Brilliant whiskey selection.

A. F.

Best spot for real ales and highland tunes.

G. R.

Good pub for a relaxing beer.

D. H.

Very good pies best a have had and staff are amazing

M. B.

Music was very silent, it was hard to hear anything in the crowd.

M. R.

Awesome Scottish traditional live music

P. G.

Bells is always a good blast of goodness and interesting encounters

R. R.

Known as one of the main folk pubs in Edinburgh, I'd always found the place a bit clique-y. But this year I was invited in several times and made to feel very welcome. The music is great.

R. S.

Well we went here after our friend spotted they do live music. So after an amazing meal at Fishers in the city we headed over. The first thing you notice is that the bar staff are keen to play by the rules and ensure mask wearing is kept on at the appropriate time. Seating is recommended. It's strange times though, so we must comply. Well done staff. Anyway the bar is narrow but stretches back and allows plenty of customers to enjoy the bar and music. With an excellent selection of drinks available it is clear the bar specialises in whiskey. They are all located in a logical order for the officiando to browse, Speyside together, Islay's together etc etc. An amazing choice and not too expensive unless you are after an 18 year old whiskey then the price rise naturally. The charm and wit of the bar staff really made our evening when we visited. Sarah added value to our night and looked after the 4 of us, ensuring we always had a drink in hand. The live music kept us entertained as subtle background music and added to the evening atmosphere. Would I go back here of course, good beer, whiskey and interaction with the bar staff made for a long and enjoyable night.

R. F.

A must when your in Edinburgh. Classic old school vibe complete with little fire and usually a dog lying next to it. Good whisky selection, yummy scotch eggs to nibble, and usually nightly trad session. A great stop off after exploring Greyfriars cemetery

N. K.

Went there for the music. It was ok, more american/country+pop than folk. It was quite busy, not enough seating, people were sitting on the floor or perched on stools. Dog friendly place Unfortunately not the cleanest place.

E. H.

A fine pub, but we wanted to hear the live music and couldn’t because there were so many people there!

r.

Walked in last night to a pub that was like it was in the good old days before March 2020. Heaving, crowded, busy and a breath of fresh air from the majority of city centre pubs that seem to make up their overly safe and scared rules. Then wonder why they arent busy.

J. M.

Great pint of Guinness and really friendly staff!

T. P.

Are you even in Edinburgh if you’re not in Sandy Bells? Live music as it should be, communal, casual and inclusive. Great drinks selection.

T. N.

A special Pub. A Lil corner of scottish traditions, is a full immersion of atmosphere and Live music with traditional instruments ( when i was there at the least)

J. H.

Nice pub, nice beer, good music. However very small. Hard to get close enough to hear the music. They play deep inside the pub close to the toilets. Do constant stream of traffic to them, leaving a gap, and it's mainly standing room only. Disappointing since it has promise of been really good. I suppose locals know when the best times are to go.

O. W.

Really cool, small folk bar. They often have fiddle jam sessions which are really cool to see. One of my favourite parts though is the pub dog. I think the dog belongs to a regular, but he's absolutely adorable and can often be found lying outside or walking around inside. The bar has a great selection of beers and ciders on tap. Their whiskey collection is also quite good.

P. P.

Great live folk music seven nights a week and afternoon sessions on some days as well. Stupendous home made pies and fantastic 35mm malt whisky selection with a £3.75 malt of the month available as well as cask ales and craft beers. Intimate and cosy bar with wood fire in the wintertime and dog friendly.

J. L.

Terrific spot, with great Real Ales and live music. The landlady has a viper's tongue which gives you the feeling you're back in the pub again, rather than a weird table served covid nightmare!

M. L.

Small Scottish bar with an excellent selection of whisky. We enjoyed the atmosphere and live piano music.

K. F.

Fantastic local music bar. Good beer selection, everyone is very friendly and the music is unmatchable

A. C.

We love the atmosphere! The staff are friendly and take as much time over you as they can. They learn details of many of the drinks offered and can describe well the whiskies on offer. The live music sounds even better after a few wee drams

A. G.

Great Scottish pub. The barman was very friendly and helpful. He was patient and let us sample several different beers before making our choice since we were unfamiliar with the selection. Would definitley recommend!

E. G.

Arguably the home of the Scottish folk scene (although I'd also include The Royal Oak and Captain's Bar in that). It's a friendly, airy, well lit pub and everything a pub should be. No-one ever sits silent on their own for long. It's a great place to relax, make friend, enjoy a drink and listen to talented musicians that you would never have heard of before.

P. M.

Really good pub on a pleasant, leafy street. Good beers and nice whisky selection. Lots of character (and characters)

L. M.

Best Guinness in Scotland replete with a great traditional atmosphere and regular session music.

J. U.

Nice atmosphere. Attentive staff. Folk musicians come and go. Very laid back and pleasant.

P. B.

Great little place. The drink selection is great if you're into your craft beers and ale (and whisky too). We went because we fancied some live folk music - but be warned, it isn't like there's a stage and a live show put on - it was a group of people dropping in and out and playing tunes together, in a small room at the back, almost like a rehearsal space or jamming session. Despite it getting *really* cramped later on, I enjoyed every minute!

V. M.

Extremely cosy and most genuine pub in town! Live folk music on sunday from 4pm.

H.

Another reviewer said the staff doesn't like tourists, but both staff and patrons were delightful to us. The bartender gave me a great scotch recommendation, and the two of us sat at a table for four, so when another couple didn't have a seat, we asked them to join us. The music was delightful. A real gem!

P. D.

A great pub and super friendly! I had a great time talking with the locals sitting at the bar, listening to the live music and stroking Kilo the Staffy dog. Excellent selection of drinks and will definitely visit again!

L. M.

Such a wonderful vibe to this place, with a super friendly bar staff and musicians that come by to jam together. Not touristy, at least when I was there (in the winter). Probably different every night, but imagine being in a tiny pub with a cellist, violinist, guitarist all freestyle jamming together. Very soothing 😆

D. W.

Still a great pub in the centre of Edinburgh. All the best things about being Scottish. Nae telly, great live music, huge selection of single malt whisky, fine ales, best staff and a place where conversation matters. Love it. D

P. P.

Really great atmosphere. The best pub in Edinburgh!

S. H.

Simply the best establishment in Edinburgh for live folk music, attentive bar staff and authentic atmosphere!

T. B.

We were looking for a place that was a little out of the way and really hoping to enjoy some traditional music. This place has both, great selection of beer on tap and so many malts to try. Ended up being joined by two local guys and did a little tour of a few scotch malts. Couldn't have asked for a better last night in Edinburgh.

J. C. R.

Great place to enjoy Scottish and Celtic live music and share drinks and chats with the local folks. The musicians gather at the back of the pub and enjoy playing for themselves while people watch and listen, rather than making a formal presentation. Do not miss this place!

R. L.

I met my husband at this pub! So I'm a bit biased. It's a classic watering hole with a genuine, satisfyingly old look and feel, and the live music is something everyone living in or passing through the city should take a moment to enjoy. 10/10 great place to grab a relaxed pint with mates. Bonus: there's a pub dog.

C. T.

The bar was good until we were really rudely told to move by a member of the folk committee as they needed our table for commitee business. Given I have a disability, we had arrived early so we would be there for the folk session and paid handsomely for whisky. Really spoilt a nice evening.

R. W.

A Solid choice for the evening. Look this place turns up in all the your books. An typically that is my reason for avoiding it. But to be honest it's a good find. The Bartenders are kind and the drinks friendly. You'll find your large dose of toursits here, But that doesn't stop locals for diving right in beside you. Go ahead show off your Scotch chops they got more than a few to wet your tongue with. A fine choice any time.

D. A.

An excellent place to listen to live music drinking a pint

M. C.

One of my favorite pubs after several visits to this lovely city. Friendly bartender, perfect place for a Lia Fail or any Craigmill beer. This was my last stop this time in Edinburgh, and what a great place to end on it was.

N. B.

Good drinks, great atmosphere and even better music. Sandy Bell's is an Edinburgh institution and always well worth a visit. Just be sure to go when there's music playing. Although that's a spontaneous happening. Anyone is free to turn up and join in. It's normally a selection of folk and traditional reels but all sorts are welcome.

S. C.

Great little pub with a nice barman. Live music but it gets very crowded. Sadly the music was in a small back section - all the locals gathered round so even though we were sat just 5 meters away we could not hear anything. If you do go for the music I suggest going early and sitting right by the band. We left after 30 minutes as we could not hear anything. Shame - it could have been great. Some microphones or moving the band would really help.

D. C.

This is my kind of pub. Good beer, a wonderful selection of whiskies served by friendly staff and all topped off with live folk music. What's not to like? Get there early though, as it does get busy.

I.

This place is good for drinking a pint or pre party. They play folk music almost all the time except when the bar closes. You can find hard drinks like coffee. Good for families with adopted child. Thanks for your attention. See you again soon.

E. B.

Fantastic bar recommended to us by locals when we were there for Hogmanay, and we stopped in here after hiking Arthur's Seat and before going to the Torchlight Procession. Their pies were fantastic, with a no-fuss short list of pie options. Plenty of locals were also there hanging around listening to the live music being performed in the back. It was a tight squeeze, but we all found places to sit and warm up while we drank our beers and visited with friends. If you're in Edinburgh for a short amount of time, make sure you stop here!

N. S.

Small and intimate with live folk music! I'm literally writing this review in the pub at 00:02...brilliant service from friendly bar staff and equally friendly punters! Full of locals and tourists like myself! I'm here with the wife and we had a great time.

C. G.

This pub was also known as the Forest Hill. I was formerly a regular but I am not a lover of "Folk" so I won't be going back after lockdown however I remember that the beer was always good and the customers were friendly.

J. R.

Good music and, beers and whiskies. Not to be missed if you're in town for folk music. But please be sure to speak quietly (or not at all) while the musicians are playing: they're unamplified and they deserve to be heard by everyone present.

m. R.

good music and atmosphere. Very good service and a wide variety of beers.

K. S.

Most sexy and assertive and intulectual and aesthetically pleasing staff I have ever met in my life... Best spirit selection that is always expanding...well kept beers that are both classic and interesting. Good gin... Excellent whisky and rum that both regulars and staff are super stoked to talk about... It's a real pub A real GREAT pub In every aspect. (Get to know the dude in the barstool to your left ;) )

J. C.

Nice pub to take cover from the wind and rain! They have a small fireplace which makes you feel warmer than it should and all I can say is that I appreciated it after being out walking the whole morning. Good selection of scotches for aficionados as with most pubs in Edinburgh. They even have a piano for aspiring musicians which is reserved for such talents from 830pm

R. T.

Wonderful pub with live music! Friendly people and good drinks.

G. T.

Great pub, great pint obviously look after there celler great atmosphere, live music. What's not to like. 👍

P. S.

A small basic but friendly pub popular with locals, tourists and students alike - probably because of its proximity to Edinburgh University. It is located in an especially historic part of the 'Old Town' and is popular with amateur folk musicians who are encouraged just to gather and play informally. Easily accessible from the city centre by foot or public transport and well worth a visit to soak up the character of Edinburgh.

A. A.

An absolute delight! Fantastic atmosphere with superb music every night. I stumbled upon this little gem last month and enjoyed it so much that I returned the next night, dragging along the people I was with! The pies are simply divine as well!

M. M.

Looks like acute bar. Old man’s pub style. We arrived at 11pm the music had finished, so arrive earlier.

S. B.

Lively and unassuming, my go-to-place for Scottish music and a super friendly atmosphere in Edinburgh. My friend and I went on Wednesday night (every night has a different theme) and we lucked out with a fantastic performance from a band of oldie-but-goodie guys and singer (woman). Everything they played was delightful and we were hard pressed to not break into a jig right there. The flow and turnover in the place is healthy so even if you get there late you will probably get a seat within thirty minutes.

t. l.

It doesn't get any better than the Sandy Bell, and no visit to the city is complete without stopping by. Pick up jam sessions of traditional music in the evening, fire place and wood floors, nothing pretentious, fine cask ales and whiskies, and friendly regulars welcoming to visitors. Edinburgh at its finest.

J. R.

Great spot for a drink to meet other travelers, locals, listen to live music -- Sandy Bell's has it all. :)

S. G.

My favourite pub in Edinburgh. Unspoilt Victorian interior, small, friendly with a great range of real beer and whiskies.

L.

Old traditional pub. Small, loud, and cozy. There's a resident dog who loves being petted. No food once whatever was made that day is gone. Nightly music is traditional by good local musicians who love to play. This isn't a performance. They sit facing each other. Listeners get to sit or stand where there's room. If you must photograph them, ask first and don't use a flash.They may yell at you for that. Oh and they'll smile at you if you pay for a round of drinks. Raise your glass for a toast and say Slangevar!

J. S.

Nice informal place where local musicians can just show up for an open-mic-style jam session every night. This means there’s a lot of different music styles and there might not always be a band playing all the time. The whisky selection is impressive, the prices are good value, and the staff is quick and friendly.

H. H.

Amazing live music bar! They have traditional Scottish music every night played by local professional or amateur musicians. Go there on Thursday, you will have the highest standard performance. Grab a pint of beer and enjoy FREE live folk music with local musicians every night~~~!!!

B. M.

One of Edinburgh s finest pubs. Great beers, or an amazing range of whisky's if you prefer, great service and steak pies to die for! What more can you ask! And if you come in the evening, music that will make your foot tap !

J. K.

Nice folksy bar. Often has live traditional Scottish music on, and has a good range of beers and ales. Not one for the trendy croud looking for the latest big thing, but a nice place to grab a pint.

S. M.

Every encounter I've had in the Sandy Bells has always been jovial. This bar exudes character from every surface and every regular ready to regale you with tall tales from their life. Dogs are as important as the beautiful wooden interior design, and enjoy howling along with the live music. It's a small pub, unfortunately, and one that has shot up in prices in the last 8 years. Still, it carries itself well and remains one of the most historical pubs in the Old Town.

N. I.

Touristy historic pub with folk music. Some good ales and whisky. The barman was very happy to chat about the whisky range. Worth a visit if you're a tourist.

J. R.

Traditional wee Scottish pub with excellent choice of beer. Some improvised music during the day (Festival time) and in the evening. Snack food available. Gets crowded quickly.

I. W.

Good pub for a bit of proper live Scottish music. Slightly over priced but a good place overall

L. S.

Lovely quiet place you can relax with a drink. Good whiskey selection if you like that sort of thing. I imagine it can get quite lively if they have live folk music.

V. S.

Grotty little folk music pub! Toilets need an overhaul but otherwise a nice wee place that hasn't been gentrified by Edinburgh eejits yet!

a. h.

The hidden gem in Edinburgh. The pub has a wide variety of ale and whiskey accompanied by the live folk music every night. Undoubtedly, this place gives a true feeling of Scotland. I enjoyed every minute there!

N.

Live folk music starts at 9PM. Wonderful pub, very authentic with live music. A Scottish experience to say the least!

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