We recommend some top bars for the Fringe

This month is a busy time of year for the Scottish capital, as wide-eyed and open-mouthed tourists descend on the capital for the world famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

In fact, the city’s population doubles in size, so that’s twice as many people looking for a decent drink.

The drinks trend has now developed similar aspects to that of the ‘foodie trend’; guests now really care about the ingredients that go into their drink.

The trend of drinking less, but drinking better is surging across Edinburgh’s nightlife.

Here’s some tips on where to get a top quality drink served by a professional bartender.

Bramble:  Venture down the Queen Street venue’s mysterious but welcoming staircase to experience quality liquor like you’ve never experienced before…

16A Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JE

The Kaleidoscope Bar, part of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society

Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar:  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society may seem like a special member’s club, which it is, but one of the most special things about this club is that anyone can visit their wonderful ground floor bar. Now in its 35th year, the SMWS must be doing something right with their exceptional array of the finest single cask whiskies money can buy. Oh, and their whisky cocktails aren’t half bad either. Check out their fantastic selection of whiskies at the SMWS Fringe pop-up at George Square where you can receive £15 off membership.

28 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 1JX

Panda & Sons:  The magnificent Panda… anyone who knows the Edinburgh drink scene will vouch for this local favourite. Disguised as an old school barbershop as an exterior, you then proceed through a bookcase (you heard me) to enter the venue, where you’ll be greeted by charming staff and some of the most imaginative drinks in the world…

79 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF

The Permit Room:  A fantastic late-night cocktail bar with seriously good drinks hidden beneath the kitchen of Dishoom Edinburgh, open until 3am.

3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD

The Bon Vivant: Tucked away from the crowds on the hidden gem that is Thistle Street, The Bon V serves expertly made cocktails that will keep you coming back for more.

51 Thistle Street, Edinburgh EH2 1DY

The Devil’s Advocate:  Visit if you want a great drink in a unique venue. Consistently flawless cocktails.

9 Advocate’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1ND