The Cow Shed

The Cow Shed is a snug, wood-paneled whisky bar tucked away within the historic Scotsman Hotel on North Bridge. The atmosphere is warm and clubby, with leather armchairs, low lighting, and shelves lined with bottles from distilleries across Scotland. It's a favorite spot for both hotel guests and locals seeking a quiet dram away from the city's busier pubs. The bar specializes in single malt whiskies, with knowledgeable staff happy to guide you through regional variations, from smoky Islays to fruity Speysides. You'll also find a small but thoughtful selection of craft beers and wines. The Cow Shed's name nods to the hotel's former life as a newspaper office (the 'cow shed' was slang for the reporters' room), adding a layer of local lore to your visit. It's an ideal place for a relaxed evening conversation or a solo tasting session, especially if you want to sample whiskies you won't find in every Edinburgh bar.

Don't miss

• Browse a curated selection of over 100 single malt whiskies from across Scotland
• Try a whisky flight to compare different regions or distilleries
• Relax in leather armchairs by the fireplace on cooler evenings
• Chat with the bartenders for personalized recommendations based on your taste preferences
• Enjoy the quiet, intimate atmosphere away from Edinburgh's crowded pubs

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Cow Shed

Cheapest way inOld Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh4.9★ · 2,284 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →Most bookedThe World Famous Underground Ghost Tour4.6★ · 10,226 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →Top ratedGlenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel Tour from Edinburgh5★ · 189 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$94 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• The bar is open daily from late afternoon to midnight; check the hotel website for exact hours as they may vary seasonally.
• Whisky prices range from around £8 for a standard dram to £30+ for rare bottlings. Ask for a price list before ordering.
• Smart casual dress is fine; no strict dress code, but the atmosphere is refined.
• Light snacks like cheese boards and bar bites are available if you need a nibble with your drink.

A bit of history

The Scotsman Hotel occupies the former headquarters of The Scotsman newspaper, built in 1905. The Cow Shed bar takes its name from the newspaper's newsroom, which was colloquially called 'the cow shed' by journalists. The building was converted into a hotel in 2001, preserving many original architectural features.