Where to go for drinks this month
It's time to brave the elements, pray for sun and enjoy a few drinks al fresco. This year, there are plenty of new places that'll put your local beer garden in the shade
From 12 July, the gardens at St Andrew Square, will be filled with outdoor drinking destinations including a Tanqueray Gin bar, Kettle One Vodka bar and coffee unit selling espresso martinis in the evening. On George Square from 01 August, there will be another amazing transformation featuring the return of the Treehouse bar as well as a one-off (ticketed) Hendricks Experience Bar and the Lagunitas bar, promising some of the best brews in town.
For something a little more refined, pay a visit to the Rose Street Garden, a pretty little space behind The Dome, where giant umbrellas, heaters and blankets provided by partner Bombay Sapphire keep you cosy and comfy whatever the weather. Or if the sun’s out, the terrace at The Forth Floor Restaurant at Harvey Nichols has had a country garden style makeover courtesy of Nyetimber. If you’re more of a gin lover, head over to the Caorunn Gin Garden in Hotel Du Vin’s pretty courtyard.
If it’s Friday night and you have a head for heights and fizz, The Tower Rooftop on Chambers Street is where you’ll want to be. From 4pm-10pm each week, they’re offering a bottle of Prosecco and nibbles to share for £25 (the views come gratis). Another must-visit roof terrace to enjoy in the Old Town is the Cold Town House in the Grassmarket which boasts uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle and drinks served from a quirky vintage Citroen van. Or you could try Nor’ Loft, the 7th floor rooftop Champagne lounge that opens at Market Street Hotel this month.
While out of town, the garden worth travelling for can be found at Tom Kitchin’s new joint Bonnie Badger in Gullane where an outdoor fireplace, bar and kitchen ensure you’ll stay warm and well fed while you imbibe.
For a rather luxury experience head down to the Port of Leith and board Fingal, a plush floating hotel harboured at Alexandra docks. Cocktails ordered in The Lighthouse Bar are best enjoyed out on deck (weather permitting) accompanied with stunning views of the port.
Last but not least, it’s also worth noting that plans are underway for the Shore to be pedestrianised this summer, meaning there could be much more space for outdoor drinking when the sun shines on Leith.