Reviews of The Royal Oak. (Pub) in Edinburgh (Edinburgh).

The Royal Oak

893 Reviews

367 Comments

Pub

Live music bar

1 Infirmary St, Edinburgh EH1 1LT, United Kingdom

Description

Information of The Royal Oak, 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.

This business has received very good reviews from their customers, so probably it’s a place you should try if you are looking for this kind of services.

Map

Open hours of The Royal Oak

Popular times

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Reviews of The Royal Oak

T. K.

Awesome atmosphere with music from the moment we entered, with all the artists inviting others to perform if they wanted. Great mix of locals and tourists alike. The bar staff were extra lovely and didn’t hold back on taking the piss out of me 🥰

R. B.

Dead fun but you only get a seat if you're a guitar.... Or playing one. Fair play tiny pub, fair play 😂

m. p.

Strange place, but did enjoy it. They start spouting poetry and folk songs and tell you to shut the f**k up if you talk during it.will go again.

T.

So cool place, probably the best pub in Scotland. But be aware, it's very small :)

I.

I went there on Burns night. There was a singer, everybody was singing along like one big family. Very nice atmosphere.

P. P.

Great live music venue but spoiled by dead eyed staff with no people skills, you might have to apologise for interrupting their cosy chats, oh and make sure to count your change when you get it back.

D. M.

We wondered in for a pre-dinner drinks. Great local atmosphere and beer selection. A nice way to unwind after the rigors of touring.

L. M.

The best music and atmosphere I've experienced at a pub in Scotland or anywhere in the world. Great place

B. F.

Such a brilliant night here. Tiny packed bar with different musicians turning up through the night to keep us entertained!

P. C.

Little gem in the heart of Edinburgh. Tiny but fabulous little music pub that is an absolute must for anyone that likes traditional music.

T. M.

Small bar with great local folk music, Mcewans soup on tap but keep you chatter down and listen to the acoustic or rightly get told off!

P. A.

Great bar, no room to swing a cat fantastic atmosphere and good live music. Don't forget to buy the musicians a drink

r. f.

Possibly the last of the original Edinburgh bars, brilliant banter and great atmosphere, a must visit while in Edinburgh.

S. R.

Good pub with music inside, the people is free to arrive with their instruments and play music and sing... Really nice!

V.

Great open mic and live music sessions. The price of alcohol is a bit steep however.

C. H.

Amazing place, wonderful staff, lovely atmosphere... Beautiful live music. 5 stars

T. K.

Very nice Pub with Live Music

J. D.

brilliant beers terrific tunes cracking company 11/10

G. G.

Great place, mobbed but always fun! Never quite know what to expect but it's generally pretty good! And open all hours 😉

K. W.

Great folk music pub. Very friendly.

o.

A great place for drink & music but if you mainly wanna chat with your mates go elsewhere as you’ll be told off.

n. s.

Very wholesome but great choice of drinks and live music at all times. Very professional staff

L. o.

A brilliant and authentic pub, with brilliant and authentic bartenders, Kirsty and Linsey, who served us with warmth and good humour as well as fine ale. I'll definitely be returning when I'm next up in EH1.

T. “. D. D.

Small traditional pub, in the city but away from mass tourism, Witherspoon Nice music, very good place

C. P.

The perfect place to spend your time in. There always are a musicians playing and singing and the atmosphere is great.

A. “. A.

Good beer, cozy little spot, a fireplace, solid wifi, and really good folk tunes as I walked in. 😍

D. L.

Our type of place. Small, basic and full of friendly locals with good service and a decent selection of beer and spirits.

m.

Cosy pub with great music.

A. E.

Has a grungy folk rock feel, with some live music. Not the best pub per se,and cramped

L. C.

Traditional scottish pub with live music, they have two floors and live music un both. Interesting place to visit.

M. P.

Friebdlt staff. Fantastic live music. Grestvrwsl ale😀

M. Z.

Great live folk music, cozy little pub. Zero tourists.

b. t.

Great small pub where you can listen to live music by local musicians!

M. D.

Great place for folk music lovers. Folk music is performed here pretty much all the time. Anybody can join in and play if they want. Even if you don't have you instruments, one of the musician will most likely lend you their own. They have decent beers selection both draft and bottled.

D. D.

Was there during the fringe. They had folk music on. It was like being part of a Guinness advert. Only in Scotland

A. M.

Cosy wee pub with efficient, friendly service and a good live singer in the corner. Very enjoyable.

N.

A nice small place with live music and reasonable priced drinks. Bartenders are hilarious.

S. F.

A really great place to feel old Edinburgh music!! Improve local freestyle and good beers

R. F.

Atmospheric littlr bar upstairs with live folk music. Cash only bar. Be quiet while the music is on!

M. T.

Had a blast! Great music, atmosphere and local crowd, definitely returning.

D. M.

Good place for a singsong. Place full of tourists,barman doesn't like tourists and is a bit deef.

M. S.

Live folk every night. Cramped but brilliant atmosphere! One of Scotland's finest folk venues.

T. R.

Lovely little old school pub

R. G.

One of those places where you might well find some quality live trad music.

A. T.

I fell off the train and into the Royal Oak - the preceding moments leading to our fumbly arrival at this shoebox wonderland of local, folk-al, simply colloquial, modest watering hole had sunk into the cholera city beneath the city. A true threshold crossing. If it weren't for my bags and growing appetite, our Royal Oak sejour would have extended into the early hours of the evening where intriguing locals would have filled the small, unusually basic space (a humble reminder that less is more) with musical joviality and metronomic merridom. This quick dram-filled visit was a healthy dose of Edinburgh's authentic undercurrent of staple culture.

K. N.

Great place for casual Scottish folk music, mostly local crowd.

D. M.

Great traditional music, friendly staff, and good beer.

S. H.

little known place but downstairs is the wee bar with a busker great ambience barman/woman not sure about

S. M.

An unmissable Edinburgh gem. Live folk music every night and a great atmosphere.

V. S.

Fantastic place, excellent live music and a lovely cosyand friendly ambience! Must visit if in Edinburgh.

N. M.

Traditional pub with folk live music, great atmosphere

A. C.

Nice place to hear some good live and acoustic music and to have a beer

B. W.

Great place to grab a beer and listen to some traditional music.

P. J.

Cramped, but some of the best live music I've ever heard, and very reasonable prices. An excellent experience.

N. B.

Really nice place with live music, (small cozy original perl in the town)

D. M.

Old Pub fantastic atmosphere and welcome, musicians bring their instruments and sing and play, Brilliant 👏👏👏👏

M. M.

Nice cosy bar, friendly staff, live folk music and proper ales

T. N.

Amazing live music venue for open mic and local folk artists.

m. c.

Great night - music fantastic. Everyone friendly and made us feel at home

M. L.

Fantastic bar with local folk music. Friendly staff and patrons.

L. H.

Very nice either wee pub had Irish music playing for festival

S. M.

Brilliant staff and an excellent place to go for live Scottish folk music!

F. G. d. l. V.

The most Scottish pub you'll find, the music is wonderful, the people even better

N. B.

This is a super cozy small bar where musician goes and play, super good experience

j. a.

Best place to enjoy real night in Edinburgh! Good live music and good people!

M. M.

Traditional pub with good music but wee measures .

P. W.

After going to Mother India, next door we called in to the Royal Oak for one drink and stayed for the rest of the evening. What a cracking little place, while we were in someone was singing and playing the guitar,the two young ladies got up and played the 🎸 and sang. Later the piano was also in use. This was last Tuesday the 7th of June. The two lovely ladies behind the bar were very welcoming, we felt very comfortable, it did get rammed but it was brilliant. Kind regards Melanie, C and myself Paul xx

A.

wow. if you want to get some non tourist experience, and accessible taste of the area, make sure to hear the artists sing and play folk music here.

D. M.

Meh bands

W. T.

Great music, excellent staff and eccentric locals, what's not to like!?

D. B.

Loads of character, good music, good beer but a little on the small side.

A. H.

Great local and friendly pub in the centre, with occasional great music.

J. D.

Friendly wee pub went for music enjoyed our visit

J. E.

Great service fantastic live folk music friendly atmosphere

M. R.

Nice wee (and I mean wee) pub that has excellent live music

s. d.

Great live music venue, always a good night

a. c.

Good, friendly pub with traditional Scottish music.

A. H.

This bar is intimate to say the least but there's live music most times, great whisky and you'll be that close to others you'll make new friends!!

A. S.

Great wee old fashioned friendly customer and Josh the bar man was a fantastic host

W. S.

Highly recommended for live music and drink specials. Friendly crowd!

R. P.

Had a wonderful time at the Thursday season. Great cosy pub

R. R.

Friendly staff, friendly locals, and good music! GREAT ATMOSPHERE DURING THE FRINDGE!

A. D. (.

Do you want traditional, scottish, folk, all three? Good beer? A local's local. This is where you want to go :)

D. M.

Good music sessions if you can get in the door. Very popular

B. D.

Lovely little place. Great music, great service and great times!

D. F.

Folk music daily, great beer (try the 60/)

I. D.

The live music was something special, very warm and friendly.

H. D.

A gem!

R. v. R.

My favorite pub in Edinburgh! Small but so cosy. Artists perform regularly, and they are a big supporter of folk music.

A. W.

Small and cozy, with reasonable prices and fantastic live music!

E. R. M.

Cosy pub upstairs, more room downstairs, and plenty of music!

P. O.

Open Late but not as late as pre pandemic yet.Upstairs only part open this far

K. N.

Great music. Lovely small pub.

D. A.

A small place. The music was not the greatest. Too many regulars and somehow limited choice of drinks.

J. B.

A great wee pub with fantastic music and atmosphere

E. Y.

Always music, arranged or casual. Two ales always available.

J. H.

There was a dog and live folk music and good beer

S. H.

Overcrowded but friendly. Performance rather than a folk session. Enjoyed it though.

L. F.

Tiny pub, epic music from the folks jamming, everyone having a wee sing, lush 😎

P. B.

Absolutely awesome tiny spot for a non-pretentious, friendly session (trad music), decent ale, reasonable prices and the staff are fabulous.

A. B.

Tiny pub but the beer and atmosphere are great.

A. M.

Authentic Scottish Pub. A local took me there. Great music and friendly people

G. R.

Very good moment ! A little place with local musician

В. А.

Some great music in an unofficial non-touristy atmosphere

C. S.

Fantastic venue. Great service and great music.

s. m.

Nice small pub in Edinburgh with Folk musicians. 😎

M. R.

Small, friendly. Good atmosphere. Good beer!

L. F.

Traditional. Very small. Good music. A great evening.

C. G.

Great folk music and drink on tap!

T. W.

Great music and staff, especially Lins and Daniel

S.

Good beer and great music, but very small even by intimate venue standards. When I was there, the space quickly became jammed, with few places to stand, never mind sit. Saw a lot of people enter then immediately turn around and leave, almost certainly because they saw how rammed it was. My advice is to arrive early before the music starts, if you want to snag a table and chairs.

M. I.

Absolutely fantastic pub. I came to make friends on a Monday night and I made friends the moment I walked in. The music was lively and communal, and everyone was involved and having a great time. Once I knew a place this special existed, I had to come back the next night, too. The musicians are so kind and diversely talented, and although it’s a very tiny room, it makes for the perfect environment to meet people and feel at home.

L. H.

Traditional music, sing along no tourist sappy.

P. M. L.

Great atmosphere

a.

Always a pleasure, some awesome live folk music

C. R.

Great atmosphere and lovely old fashioned pub

T. D.

Lovely pub, should have Tennents on tap though

M.

one of the most authentic pubs I’ve visited in town

A. B.

Great night out with free/self provided entertainment.

P. R.

Good beer, good whiskey, great service and music!

D. K. R.

Best evening I have had in a long time. Downstairs in this pub.

N. K.

Fantastic live music over a pint.

I. H.

Decent pub with good banter from the bar staff. Just don't talk when people are playing, they don't like that :)

C. C.

Love the place people playing on there guitar and banjos amazing

J. O.

Live music ... Good beer and some history in their walls

V. S.

Fun times with live music, great experience!

C.

Excellent place for folk music and drinks

A. S.

Fab place, friendly staff and fantastic music.

n. p.

Nice place. Very good music

O. A.

Genuine Scottish place. Great live music

D. L. (.

This place was great! Live music was on fire!

M.

I miss that place, where music often is played at highest levels, political correctness is still accepted, and anyone is welcome.

M. S.

One of the cheapest pubs in the area well used by locals.

J. V.

Good pub, cosy atmosphere and friendly staff. Decent selection of beers, good selection of spirits.

g. m.

Very down to earth. Interesting characters. Good beer

B. D.

Nice wee pub. Great music.

n. (.

The best restaurant, with local food. The haggis was perfect 🤙

R. M.

Good people, good tunes, good drinks, great staff.

A. E.

Amazing place, amazing people, marvellous music!

R. M.

Brilliant venue with fantastic music.

C. H.

Nice traditon pub, with random folk music.

J. M.

Live music every night, nice, cosy etc

N. C.

Amazing beer and an amazing folk session.

D. M.

Friendly pub , mixed customers , next to Mother India cafe .

M. R.

Lovely authentic old fashioned pub with great folk music. A delight.

S. B.

My favourite pub in the whole world

T. H.

A locals pub amidst the tourism. Friendly and genuine

J. S.

Fantastic service, great folk music!!!

R. A. S.

Great music and nice ambience!

L. R. S.

Great atmosphere and music!

I. N.

Love it especially live folk music

K. H.

Guess I need to try this one out again when the music is on. During the daytime the local crew is just scary.

D. M.

Really divey pub with live music.

J. M. N. M.

Small cosi and graet live music

N. S.

Great music and friendly locals

S. E.

This (The Royal Oak) is the real deal. If you're like me and you adore Scottish/Gaelic/British folk music, this is the place to be. It's a small, cramped space but the atmosphere is genuine/ sincere and the unstinting dedication to folk music is palpable. You will definitely find yourself singing along or even performing if you have the chops. The Royal Oak is a welcome respite from the cheesy commercialization of folk music in Ireland (<CRINGE>). The Royal Oak is a place where REAL performers come to share the love of their craft, not because they're just shilling for tourists. If ANY traveler wants to have a true taste of the heartwarming, earthy timelessness of British Isles folk, the Royal Oak is one of the only places left. Help keep the music alive - PATRONISE THIS ESTABLISHMENT.

M. S.

Tiny bit good beer and friendly

T. L.

Great little bar

C.

Cozy and really nice live music!

D. C.

Great place for listening to live music

M. B.

The BEST bar staff throughout Edinburgh

D. S.

Great wee pub for music and beer

R. S. V.

Great music and atmosphere.

A. P.

Nice pub. Friendly staff.

Y. K.

Proper pub with a unique atmosphere

K. T.

Plenty music.good place

h. d.

Been coming here for years love the atmosphere in this small pub good local beers and spirits great prices and very good music

J. K.

Nice and cosy pub with a soul :)

C.

Nice spot with music on fridays.

R. D. P.

Nice music, nice little pub

S. P.

Friendly and great music!

S. T. M. W.

Great folk music place !!

E. V.

Very local and unique pub👍

L. M.

Always a good time! Laughter, singing,

B. B.

Great place and good atmosphere!

S. C.

Great afternoon will be back here very soon

J. W.

Nice pub with good beer

M. R.

Awesome music, awesome place, great people!

C. S.

Smashing pub, welcoming environment!

J. P.

The more you drink, the better it gets!

B. K.

Very Schottish, there was a jamsession.

R. H.

Great local Pub!

E. M.

Classic.

k. d.

The greatest atmosphere with the greatest of people. 😊

A. I.

Nice place live music

K. Ó.

Good pub great staff

N. P.

Great music and people!

C. H.

Greatest little bar in Edinburgh

C. F.

Great local bar, live music, fantastic staff and the Guinness isn't half bad. When I'm back in Edinburgh I shall pop in. Cheers

s. d.

Local folk music pub

E. P.

Great old school Edinburgh Pup.

T. W.

Great pub

M. I.

Authentic experience, lovely crowd

K. F.

Great pub

D. M.

Rather quait. Hasn't changed in 60yrs.

d. r.

Fantastic interesting pub

M. W.

Fantastic live music

A. B.

Nice and cozy!

G. K.

Awesome Celtic music

A. H.

A great small bar with a live music! We got on a show which had amazing and kind kf intimate atmosphere. Just like a grouo of friends would gather!

T. W.

Tiny pub, usually rammed.

M. H.

Great place. Nice and tame.

I. W.

Good backstreet pub in Edinburgh

A. F.

Always lively in the evening

S. C.

Cosy little music pub.

C. M.

Where everybody knows your name.

A. D.

McEwans 80/- , yay!

K. H.

Very nice sessions

G. T.

Excellent!!!

H. T.

Great music!

a.

A wee surprise tiny bar a bit squashed but ok for a drink or two.

m.

Constant good buzz.

t. g.

Live music and Guinness.

J. R.

Great jam in the basement

C. D.

Wonderful music!

A. “. S.

Nice Cody pub

J. S.

Loved it

E. L.

Little pub, was nice

S.

Cosy with amazing atmosphere

H. P.

Our kind of pub

T. D.

Good

T. S.

Quiet, staff are nice and music is good Get in early to get a seat

M. M.

One of the best pubs in Scotland. A hole in the wall that's easy to miss but the best spot in downtown for live folk Scottish music. Show up early if you want a seat. Locals and tourists alike enjoy. Awesome staff that should not be underestimated. Treat them with respect and they'll treat you right. Lots of good stories come through here, this sleeper icon.

G.

Great wee pub

J. h.

Live local music

S. C.

Love this place!💖💖💖💖👍🎶🎵🎻🎹

j. c.

small and awesome

V. P.

Three real deal.

C. M.

Awesome experience

S. M.

Class

A. A.

The best jams

i. t.

Alive and kicking.

D. B.

Just guid!

S.

Great small pub with good ale, great for folk music. Not on the super busy royal mile, we really enjoyed it!

C. G.

Live music!

C. D.

Awesome place

M. A. s.

Cool place..

D. A.

The folk at the Oak!

g. l.

Great place

S. R.

Traditional

G. E.

Deliverance

J. O.

Great pub with live music.

R. C. X.

(Translated) A pub where the locals often visit. If I'm not mistaken every day there is live music where people go to watch and silence during the presentation is required. The place is not very big, so if you want to watch the singers from the 'cabin', arrive early. super worth the visit (Original) Um pub onde os locais costumam visitar. Se não me engano todos os dias tem música ao vivo onde as pessoas vão para assistir e o silêncio durante a apresentação é requerido. O lugar não é muito grande então se quiser assistir os cantores de 'camarote' chegue cedo. Super vale a visita

T. T.

(Translated) Pub full of atmosphere, different musicians pass and each plays with his style... (Original) Pub plein d'ambiance, de différents musiciens passent et chacun joue avec son style...

C. C.

A little pub just about there, is a little local to me. If you wish to receive a warm welcome and listen to opinions expressed via song, rythum and guitar 🎸 it's a yes. Also has cold Guinness.

R. H.

Diesesurtümliche Musiklokal hat Etwas an sich. Hier treffen sich Musiker und machen zusammen Musik, das ist spannend. Wahrscheinlich wird es später- wir waren gegen 10.30 p..m. dort - noch spannender. Die Luft war drückend, aber Bier und Whisky flossen in gemäßigten Strömen. Meine Liebe gilt solchen Kneipen nicht so sehr. (Translated) There's something about this primal music venue. Musicians meet here and make music together, it's exciting. It will probably be later - we were there around 10.30 p.m. there - even more exciting. The air was oppressive, but beer and whiskey flowed in measured streams. I don't love pubs like that so much.

A. S.

Tagsüber eher langweilige Atmosphäre, aber sobald die abendliche Livemusik beginnt ist es der Hammer !!! Der kleine Pub wird auch stark von Einheimischen frequentiert, alleine das zeugt von der Qualtät. Vorsicht die Abende können lang werden 😉 (Translated) Rather boring atmosphere during the day, but as soon as the live music begins in the evening, it's awesome! The small pub is also heavily frequented by locals, which alone testifies to the quality. Be careful, the evenings can get long 😉

J.

(Translated) A very nice little pub that has a lot of character. A wide choice of whiskey, local beers and a super nice boss who can taste before deciding. Really to do. (Original) Un tout petit pub bien sympa qui a énormément de cachet. Un large choix de whisky, des bières locales et un patron super sympa qui peut faire goûter avant de se décider. Vraiment à faire.

d. c.

(Translated) I loved this pub, the atmosphere is right, the beer too and the music enchanted me, it was an evening of experience, it enriched me a lot. Highly recommended (Original) Ho amato questo pub, l'atmosfera è giusta, la birra anche e la musica mi ha incantata, è stata una serata di esperienza, mi ha arricchita molto. Consigliatissimo

C. G.

(Translated) We happened upon an evening when by chance there were some boys singing and playing Scottish music. A show!! Too bad the place is tiny. (Original) Siamo capitati una sera in cui per caso c erano dei ragazzi che cantavano e suonavano musiche scozzesi. Uno spettacolo!! Peccato il posto sia minuscolo.

T. J.

(Translated) Typical Scottish pub with live music in the afternoon. Very small but very cosy (Original) Typische Schotse pub met ''s middags live muziek. Erg klein maar enorm gezellig opgezet

G. G.

(Translated) The true experience of a Scottish pub with live music good service and very nice people (Original) La verdadera experiencia de un pub escocés con musica en directo buen servicio y gente muy agradable

M. M.

(Translated) Beautiful small but cozy place. Good beer. Every evening there are musical groups that take turns. They play celtic music. Very nice atmosphere and engaging forgiveness (Original) Locale stupendo piccolo ma accogliente. Buona birra. Ogni sera ci sono gruppi musicali che si alternano. Suonano musica celtica. Molto bella l'atmosfera e perdono coinvolgenti

S. B.

Einer meiner Lieblingspubs. Täglich Live-Musik. Einmal wurde es so voll, daß ich auf der Fußbodenleiste stehen musste. Die Getränke und das Geld wurde über mehrere wildfremde Gäste durchgereicht, während einige Musiker sind Stehen spielen mussten. Alles war am mitsingen, eine Wahnsinns Stimmung! Nicht vergessen: Im Keller ist noch eine Bar! (Translated) One of my favorite pubs. Daily live music. Once it got so crowded that I had to stand on the skirting board. The drinks and money were passed through several strangers, while some musicians had to stand. Everything was singing along, an awesome mood! Do not forget: There is another bar in the cellar!

C. M.

(Translated) Allows you to see the local culture, a superb atmosphere with amateur concerts. Nice place to immerse yourself in the local culture (Original) Permet de voir la culture local, une superbe ambiance avec des concerts amateur. Endroit agréable pour s'immerger dans la culture local

R. C.

Great night at Festival Folk at the Oak. Folk pub in main and basement bar

T. E.

Kleiner ,Pub, Old halt. Aber prima Livemusik. Stehen ist üblich. (Translated) Small, pub, just old. But great live music. Standing is common.

O. W.

Großartiger kleiner Pub mit täglich Live-Musik. Dabei geht es weniger um gute Qualität, sondern um Emotionen und Leidenschaft. Am Abend spielen mehrere Musiker, man hat das Gefühl, jeder darf mal. Zwischendurch schwingt sich ein durchaus angetrunkener Stammgast auf und singt voller Inbrunst ein schottisches Freiheitslied oder trägt ein Gedicht vor. The Royal Oak ist ein Ort von Begegnungen, vielen skurrilen Typen, immer voll und eins der wenigen Pubs (nicht Bars!!), die länger als halb 11 Uhr ( bis 2 Uhr) aufhaben. Leckere Biere und Whisky. (Translated) Great little pub with live music every day. It's less about good quality and more about emotions and passion. Several musicians play in the evening, you have the feeling that everyone is allowed to. In between, a well-drunk regular swings up and fervently sings a Scottish freedom song or reads a poem. The Royal Oak is a place of encounters, lots of bizarre types, always full and one of the few pubs (not bars !!) that open after half past 11 a.m. (until 2 a.m.). Delicious beers and whiskey.

L.

(Translated) Intimate pub frequented by locals. Magnificent, small musical group that plays a variety of music. The owner also plays and the customers sing if they wish each in turn. Go there it's atypical you will not be disappointed. (Original) Pub intimiste fréquenté par des locaux. Magnifique, petit groupe musical qui diffuse une musique variée. La patronne joue également et les clients chantent si ils le souhaitent chacun leur tour. Allez y c'est atypique vous n'allez pas être déçu.

M. E. Q.

(Translated) I lived in Edinburgh for 3 months and this pub was my home. Beautiful people, but above all quality live music. I also purchased their beautiful shirt. (Original) Ho vissuto 3 mesi ad Edimburgo e questo pub è stata la mia casa. Gente bellissima, ma soprattutto musica live di qualità. Ho anche acquistato la loro bellissima maglietta.

V. S.

(Translated) A small pub in the center of Edinburgh, a simple and fun atmosphere, there is always someone playing live, the guitar is available for those who want to share their talent with others. Yummy beer and cider, with a wide choice and the staff are nice and friendly, go there !! (Original) Un piccolo pub al centro di Edimburgo, atmosfera semplice e divertente, c'è sempre qualcuno che suona dal vivo, la chitarra è a disposizione di chi vuole condividere il suo talento con gli altri. Birra e sidro buonissimi, con una vasta scelta e il personale è gentile e cordiale, andateci!!

L. P. C.

(Translated) Ideal to go listen to live music; a small, cozy, intimate place. There is a great atmosphere, the people are very nice and it is easy to start a conversation. To listen to typical Scottish songs is ideal. The women who wear it are very friendly. I consider it a must on a visit to Edinburgh. (Original) Ideal para ir a escuchar música en vivo; un sitio pequeño, acogedor, íntimo. Hay un ambiente estupendo, la gente es muy simpática y es fácil entablar conversación. Para escuchar canciones típicas escocesas es ideal. Las mujeres que lo llevan son muy amables. Lo considero un imprescindible en una visita a Edimburgo.

S. P.

Ein altes, kleines Pub mit Folks-Musikern. Jedoch darf auch jeder andere der singen oder Gitarre spielen kann mitspielen. Die Künstler waren sehr freundlich und die Stimmung entspannt. (Translated) An old, small pub with folk musicians. However, anyone who can sing or play the guitar can also play. The artists were very friendly and the atmosphere relaxed.

P. “. C.

(Translated) In this tiny pub (which remains open much later than the others) you will be able to listen to musicians seated most simply around a table to resume famous tunes of Scottish folk. Notice to the musicians, do not hesitate to announce you because it is with pleasure that you will be welcomed to participate in the show (Original) Dans ce minuscule pub (qui reste ouvert bien plus tard que les autres) vous pourrez écouter des musiciens assis le plus simplement autour d'une table reprendre de célèbres airs de folk écossaise. Avis aux musiciens, n'hésitez pas à vous signaler car c'est avec plaisir que vous serez accueilli pour participer au spectacle

A. K.

(Translated) Cozy establishment. With a huge selection of beers. In the evening you can catch a live performance. So after 9 pm, skipping another mug is not bad at all. (Original) Уютное заведение. С огромным выбором пива. Вечером можно застать живое выступление. Так что после 9 вечера пропустить кружку другую очень не плохо.

A. F.

(Translated) A rare pub still in its juice, not tourist, between pirates and folk music, it's worth the detour. It does not look like it's very small but here you are in another universe, the time stops the time of a song ... Thank you (Original) Un rare pub encore dans son jus, non touristique, entre pirates et musique folklorique, ça vaut le détour. Ça ne paye pas de mine, c'est tout petit mais te voici dans un autre univers, le temps s'arrête le temps d'une chanson... Merci

A. I.

Lovely sing a long in the bar, the bartender even sang

P. J. T.

(Translated) Live music. Rich beer. Central. The prices are similar to the rest of the city. The only bad thing is that the waitress was edge, but nothing that is not solved when you put the beer in front of you. (Original) Música en directo. Cerveza rica. Céntrico. Los precios son similares al resto de la ciudad. Lo único malo es que la camarera era borde, pero nada que no se solucione cuando te pone la cerveza delante.

P. D. V.

(Translated) The atmosphere in this bar is incredible. Live folk music, in a small venue. Ideal for a break surrounded by local public. (Original) Increíble el ambiente de este bar. Música folk en vivo, en un pequeño recinto. Ideal para una pausa rodeados de público local.

F. l. g.

(Translated) We came by at 5:30 p.m. and it was already playing some really good local music. Small but there is room and with a good beer ... Leave a tip and a + for everyone's pleasure. (Original) Nous sommes passés à 17h30 et ça joué déjà de la très bonne musik local. Petit mais y a de la place et avec une bonne bière... Laisser un tips et un + pour le plaisir de Tous.

L. L.

(Translated) Popular and delightful bistro! (Original) 人氣很旺、令人愉悅的小酒館！

S. R.

Immer wieder ein Highlight in Edin. Eine kleine, gemütliche Kneipe in der sich als um Livemusik dreht. Wenn die Musiker Pause machen, spielen und singen die Gäste weiter. Absolut empfehlenswert 👍 (Translated) Always a highlight in Edin. A small, cozy pub that revolves around live music. When the musicians take a break, the guests continue to play and sing. Absolutely recommendable 👍

C. C.

(Translated) Pub with the best live music of the band Reekie String Band that put the whole wave! Place to have a drink and have a great time. Good atmosphere. (Original) Pub con la mejor musica en vivo de la banda Reekie String Band que le meten toda la onda ! Lugar para tomar algo y pasarlo muy bien. Buen ambiente.

D. s.

(Translated) A small but very picturesque place. There are people playing it depends when you go. Great variety of beers and not very expensive .. (Original) Un lugar pequeño pero muy pintoresco. Hay gente tocando depende cuado vayas. Gran variedad de cervezas y no muy caro..

R. E.

Authentisches Pub mit Livemusik.Leider bei unserem Besuch nicht (Translated) Authentic pub with live music. Unfortunately not during our visit

E.

(Translated) Small pub with live music, small in size but with an unforgettable atmosphere. Good place for a pint! (Original) Pequeño pub con música en directo de pequeñas dimensiones pero con un ambiente inolvidable. Buen lugar para tomar una pinta!

r. m.

(Translated) A pint, live music and good company. A pleasure. (Original) Una pinta, música en directo y buena compañía. Un placer.

G. S.

small and concentrated ... but it is worth attending ... traditional live music ... sweet Scottish melodies q guitar, violin and other instruments ... excellent whiskey and beer ... engaging atmosphere that generates brotherhood between the patrons! 👍😜

P. A.

(Translated) Very authentic Live Music Pub where everyone can pick up the guitar and play. Super nice ☺☺☺☺ (Original) Très authentique Pub Live Music où tout le monde peut prendre la guitare et jouer. Hyper sympa ☺☺☺☺

T. T.

(Translated) Perfect ! An intimate bar in the basement for small open music sessions that are fun;) (Original) Parfait ! Un bar en sous sol intimiste pour petites open sessions de musiques qui font plaisir ;)

M. P.

(Translated) A little small, but very cute and perfect for listening to live local musicians. (Original) Un po' piccolo, ma molto grazioso e perfetto per ascoltare musicisti locali dal vivo.

A. M.

(Translated) Mythical place in Edinburgh, a must for a delicious pint. With amazing live music. (Original) Lugar mítico de Edimburgo , visita obligada para tomar una rica pinta. Con música increíble en directo.

W. T. G.

Ein echtes Pub, wie ich es mir vorstelle. Sofort ist man mit den Locals im Gespräch und geniesst sein Pint mit feinwürzigem Ale. Wunderbar! (Translated) A real pub, as I imagine. You immediately start talking to the locals and enjoy your pint with fine-flavored ale. Wonderful!

M. G.

(Translated) Great site with live music to drink good beer and good atmosphere (Original) Estupendo sitio con música en directo para tomar buena cerveza y buen ambiente

V. Á.

(Translated) The best bar in Edinburgh! Live music and an authentic atmosphere, every time I go it happens. (Original) El mejor bar de Edimburgo! Música en directo y ambiente auténtico, siempre que voy me paso.

J. M. M. M.

(Translated) typical scottish pub (Original) Típico pub escocés

R. C.

(Translated) Amazing place. Small but genuinely popular. Quality music and fantastic welcome (Original) Posto fantastico. Piccolo ma autenticamente popolare. Musica di qualità e accoglienza fantastica

j. p.

(Translated) Small typical Scottish bar. It's really a great atmosphere for those who like to live in the same way as the Scottish. (Original) Petit bar typique écossais. C est vraiment une chouette ambiance pour ceux qui aiment vivre de la meme façon que les écossais.

H. S.

Popped in here for a local experience and wasn't disappointed. Pleasant small pub feel with often with live music. The lady behind the bar was very warm and welcoming, discussing drink choices and having a friendly joke. Cheap round and nice atmosphere, be prepared for standing room only though! 🍻

L.

(Translated) Tiny but cozy, good atmosphere and good local music. The waiter a little crazy! (Original) Pequeñito pero acogedor, buen ambiente y buena música local. El camarero un poco loco!

F. B.

(Translated) Typical place. Must go if you are in Edinburgh. Maybe you can attend a small improvised concert (Original) Endroit typique. Il faut y aller si vous passez à Edinbourg. Peut être pourrez vous assister à un petit concert improvisé

N.

(Translated) Cozy pub in Edinburgh to listen to live music and with affordable prices. I recommend going there. (Original) Acogedor pub en edimburgo para escuchar musica en vivo y con precios asequibles. Recomiendo pasarse por alli.

A. B. J.

(Translated) Super! (Original) Súper!

I. L.

Kleiner uriger Pub mit Folk-Live-Musik. Große Malt- Auswahl. (Translated) Small quaint pub with live folk music. Large malt selection.

J.

Tolle Stimmung, tolle Musik! Sehr klein und eng, aber sehr empfehlenswert! (Translated) Great vibe, great music! Very small and cramped but highly recommended!

S. S.

Der Pub für Folkmusic in Edinburgh. Jeden Aben ab 21 Uhr Musik. (Translated) The pub for folk music in Edinburgh. Music every evening from 9 p.m.

R. S.

A very traditional pub, a place where the local people go for playing guitar, singing and reciting poetry. The pub is quite small and just 30 people is enough to make it crowed, but the atmosphere is really amazing. If you want to have an experience about being in good place, with good people and good beer, this is the place. I will be back there when I come back to Edinburgh.

D. D.

Cozy pub filled with a lively spirit of camaraderie and even home-brew music played right at the tables if you're lucky.

N. S.

Me and my wife visited this on our last night in Edinburgh and we loved it. Its probably one of the smallest pubs I have ever been to, but it does have two floors. It's so small that as soon as you walk in everyone will be looking at you, but fear not and hit the bar.... Which is only a few steps aways and get a drink. We went there for the live folk music and we were not disappointed. Started off with a great singer with his guitar, with a guy and his banjo turning up a couple of hours later to join in......the a young lady and her violin and not to mention a a fairly drunk guy and his flute. It was like an impromptu open mic, however it was excellent and made the evening better. Fortunately we management to get a seat after a while which kept us there until 0130 in the morning and we were supposed to have an early night. We went on a Saturday evening and it was busy but not too bad. I can't account for how busy downstairs was but there was live music there too. One thing to mention is they didn't take Card which took us back a little, but luckily we had cash on us.

A. R.

I always love going to this place when I'm in Edinburgh. It's a small but very cozy pub. There's live music every evening; usually the same musicians are playing, but sometimes there are also visitors singing or playing or both. You can get a large variety of drinks at a very decent price. The staff is friendly and welcoming to everyone. You can even purchase T-shirts with the Royal Oak logo here.

I. B.

Popped in for a pint with my daughter at about 5pm on Sunday. Only about six other customers and a guy singing along to his guitar. Good enough imitation of a southern states singing voice. Absolutely foul mouthed Scots in between songs. Another guy started playing the piano ( very well ) after a while and guy 1 accompanied him. Much better. Too late for us though as by now I had seen the notification on my phone that showed that I'd been charged £9.50 for two pints. No wonder the barperson ( careful ) looked happy. Obviously she was distracted by the act and accidentally overcharged. That's the first time in a long time that I've checked out the Royal Oak. Guess what? The visit to the Captain's Bar across the road had lower prices, great musicians and a friendly vibe. What a lovely contrast for future visits to that part of the town.

A. S.

Nice bar with great live music. You will meet awesome guys playing live music. It's a nice comfy place. It remains open till 1-1:30 am. You can spend good time with your friends enjoying some good music.

T. R.

This place is truly the epicenter for traditional folk musicians ... both professionals and amateurs ... from all corners of the world. If you can play , sing or just tell a story ... the floor is yours. There are 2 rooms, both with a bar and with music playing and songs being sung all night ... Guitars, banjos, ukalals, fiddles, violins and sometimes the piano. You will meet people from every corner of the world ... plus of course the regular customers. The bar staff are wonderful, and eccentric all rolled up together. It stays open until 2am ... when the bar manageress asks you to leave in a well understood way ... which is an experience that will stay with you forever. Please ... if you come ... The players and singers are not paid. So Please show your appreciation with a donation.

J. P.

This bar is a hidden gem if any tourists drop by. The beers were less than 5£ and the music was magnificent. It shifted from hauntingly beautiful songs that just reverberated with generations of meaning to jaunts played by the younger musicians that included violins, banjos, and acoustic guitars. This singular night would've made my trip worthwhile.

B. W.

Small, tight knit pub with a selection of local beers and real ales. Live folk music demands a quiet crowd. Great place for a quiet pint but not a large group. Can't help but feel a little bit at home here.

D.

Amazing pub with a really nice atmosphere and lovely people

K. B.

Super small pub recommended by friends and family. Live musicians playing guitars when we arrived.

c. m. b. d.

Great for local talent playing what they like Get along for old school pub and drinks

C. S.

Known for its music. Adored for crush. The atmosphere is brilliant, the music sublime and the beer spot on. Nevermind the countless bottles of whiskey. Would recommend to anyone looking for live folk, great laughs and the guarantee of making friends.

E. G.

The heart and soul of Edinburgh's folk scene, in my opinion. We were up for the weekend a the evening here was our favourite part of the trip. I've always enjoyed coming into the Royal Oak for the beer and for listening to a musician I've never heard of before. It's not a big place, upstairs or down, and can get busy on a weekend evening, so get in early, relax, make new friends, and enjoy.

A. P.

If you like a tiny pub, this is the place for you! Cosy feel and friendly atmosphere. Haven't been here when they've had live music on but I believe it's worth visiting when it's on.

M. W.

I just left Scotland after a two-week tour and capped it off with two late-night experiences in this beautiful pub. The talented musicians and songwriters who perform here made the memories of my time in Scotland so sad and beautiful that I prayed time would stop so I wouldn't have to leave. I'm convinced I had to leave a part of my heart behind just to make the bus to the airport, but that's a small price to pay for having such a wonderful experience with the treasured new-found friends I made along the way. The Royal Oak has a special place in my heart, and may be my favorite place in all of Scotland.

C. B.

The Royal Oak is a small pub in the middle of Edinburgh. Whenever I have been in, there has been some form of acoustic musical entertainment on. There is a room downstairs, but I have never seen it open. To clarify, I am an infrequent traveller to Edinburgh but have always enjoyed the atmosphere of the place. Those who are regulars will be able to speak more knowledgeably about downstairs! I would recommend this pub for small groups, but if you are travelling in numbers, expect it to be very cosy!

W. S.

The music was great though a bit quirky :) The performers alternated between comic and tragic ballads. All jammed off each other and wove a nice progression throughout the piece. A more fun than serious ballads.

T. L.

I first went to the Royal Oak with high expectations for a fun pub with great folk music. While I did enjoy the fact that this pub is all about music, it was hard that it is so tiny with so many people squished inside it. I was standing with my boyfriend next to his parents who were lucky enough to get seats, but I kept being jostled around as people kept trying to push by en route between the door and the bar. The beer selection was ok and the whisky selection was much larger. Overall I was a tad disappointed because of the old man pub atmosphere.

M. D.

Wonderful cozy spot for folk music - Super friendly staff

C. C.

Great Pub. Don't let it's small demeanor fool you. Great place for a pint and conversation

P. K.

Great night of music and drink

A. B.

Always worth a visit for the music

F. M.

A small cosy pub in the hearth of the city, with traditional folk music on every night. During weekends or busy periods, they also open the floor downstairs. Great selection of beers and whisky.

P. R.

Always loved this pub, changed days during covid, no music and only 9 allowed in at 1 time. Staff excellent as ever and good banter.

J. G.

Arguably one of the best pubs for a nights Craic in Edinburgh. If you like a bit of trad and folk music this is the bar for you. With a bit of a sing-a-long on the cards too. Highly recommended

A. W.

If you love folk & live music you'll love this pub. It's a respectful place, filled with joy and charm. Good selection of beers, some interesting Whisky's too. My home from home in Edinburgh.

F. T.

Great place to listen to music and mingle with locals. Great vibe. Clientele and bar staff will join and play music as well Of course the beer and whiskey is excellent and not as high prices as others in the area

F. M.

Magical experience.....the music and people were amazing!!!!

K. S.

Quite small place, on the first evening the guy behind the bar seemed like a fun fellow, but on our second evening there was another guy from who we got the feeling that he didn't like us being there. Otherwise a decent pub, very small though.

S.

Like the folk music but it's tiny and with 2 dogs sleeping on the floor (which I don't mind) you don't have a lot of room to manoeuvre from bar to a table with drinks in hand. It needs a good clean/scrub and a lick of paint...

A. E. B.

Very nice and cozy pub. Live music and good musicians, you can ask them to play any song that you like. Good selection od beers and whiskys

A. O.

Tidy little pub with some live music, would definitely revisit

A. K.

Go there!!!

W. S.

It's a small pleasant bar that's great if you don't come with a large group. Drinks are quite cheap compared to other bars in the area. There's another bar downstairs at the basement, not sure if they're the same bar or not.

J. M.

Usually very crowded, but the live music is always worth it. There is additional seating downstairs sometimes. Best pint of Guinness in the area!

P. L.

Nice small local pub with live music. The bar was so small and often crowded. Get there early if you don't want to stand

M. C.

Spectacular place. Both bartenders were super nice and helpful with choosing type of whiskey you want. Live music and not too much space created an amazing experience.

G. S.

Small and lovely pub with people playing traditional (mainly) music

T. S.

Good old fashion with beers that I not seen in years ,and they where good pints ,music was good too

C. E.

Little pub down a side street. We called for a half as weather was bad. Very quite during the afty but bet it's a different kettle of fish on an evening when they have live music. Love the resident dog.

J. D.

A lovely place to sit/stand/sway and enjoy quality folk music whilst sipping on yer favourite whiskey. If you're looking to have a big loud conversation with your friends perhaps this is not the place for you though

Z. P.

If I had to choose one word to describe The Royal Oak, it would be lively! Around midnight on Saturday, a friend suggested we go here for a dram, so far, so relaxed sounding. We step through the doors into a room so packed that we barely make it past the doorway... the whole pub is shoulder to shoulder, listening, and singing along, to three folk singers in the corner. There were some Irish tunes, some Scottish ballads and a surprising rendition of The Pogues' Fairytale of New York. (Surprising for just how emotional it was... and because it was February.) There was also an awful lot of laughter, good natured banter and random people hugging each other. Add in the whisky, and it was like Hogmanay all over again!

F. M.

Tiny Traditional pub with helpful staff and lots of locals hanging around. Great selection of whiskey too. Highly recommended for a drink or too.

E. M.

Very small place, with a nice atmosphere. The live music is in the basement which is even a smaller room than upstairs. Nice and cozy though!

M. G.

Great small place. Everyday life music. There is a quite talented musician/bartender in the bar downstairs who sometimes abandoned his bar to play a song. Loved it

D. D.

if it wasn't for the service the drinks the smell the customers the music and the musicians, if I could ignore the smell the iron taste of the beer the extortionate prices and the horrid decor id find this an acceptable public bathroom. as it is is rather drop my arse than go in. 5 stars would recommend.

C. W.

Great little pub some and onlu some of the bar staff can appear a little grumpy at times but its only a facade which soon cracks. Good beer and great music.

L. A.

Excellent pub. One of Scotlands smallest but best venues. Seen lots of brilliant folk acts in here. The beer on offer is diverse.

V. C.

Really tiny place, service is fine, the idea of being close to live music was also nice but you feel totally out of the picture... This is some kind of "we are regulars" club and if you are not you just won't fit in. I left the place after 30 min, music wasn't great and that kinda "regular selection and etiquette" didn't make me feel comfortable.

K. C.

Words can't describe how great this place is. So many amazing memories of listening to local scottish folk. Have met so many great people and had great moments. Thank you royal oak.

D. M.

Great local pub close to town and far enough out to be real. Great live music. Great beer. Great place

T. R.

A-ma-zing. Social, fun and very vibrant! All walks of life.

A. N.

Small, authentic sort of place. Quite often there's live music (organised and impromptu). Prices very reasonable. Gets extremely busy.

S. C. (.

Best pub in town for live local music where the locals hang out. If you want something touristy, head to the Grass Market. If you want something local and authentic, this is the spot!

M. R.

This tiny authentic bar was in full singing swing when we got in. Crowded but great atmosphere - a slice of Edinburgh personality.

M. R.

This is both a great live folk music pub and a place, even after soft drinks, you come out feeling better than when you went in.

D. B.

Very cosy setting and friendly staff, there was a live band playing when we visited which made the place seem very authentic. Pop in for a pint.

G. P.

Good music, good selection of drink and good atmosphere. If in area its a must. You won't be disappointed

A. A. R.

One of the best pub in Edinburgh. It's always frequent by amazing folk and ambient with live music. If you haven't been yet, you shoul try once.

D. U.

Live music, and not over priced beer. Apart fron that I even got a sort of poetry poetry night, when I visited it. My streotype thoughts about Scotland were sufficiently fullfilled :)

C. K.

Amazing live session music all night downstairs. One of the best pubs I’ve ever been to.

T. M.

Excellent little pub near the surgery museum. Live traditional Scottish in a comfortable cozy pub with a friendly dog. A great visit.

V. C.

Place was a bit busy but the service was fast and friendly ,the music was good.

A. L. G.

A small intimate pub with a great music and friendly staff. It feels like being involved with a jamming session with very very good musicians.

I. L.

Great music great atmosphere. Where the locals and the visitors meet for laughs and a good time. If you want authentic Edinburgh head here

K. P.

Not as many people as we thought. A shame.

J.

A very nice pub. It's very Scottish and there is live music. Good beer and good company.

S. F.

Proper cosy local boozer with an emphasis on local musicians doing a set to earn their pint 👌

K. B.

Great live music and friendly staff but the gents toilets are disgusting.

R. O.

You cannot missed the chance to visit the Oak if you come to Edinburgh!

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