The Jolly Judge Pub in Edinburgh, City of

Cracker wee spot just out of the way enough to not bustle like the other tourist traps! Great beer selection! Could do with some snacks but that from a boozy muncher lol! Staff super engaging and knowledgeable!

Semi-hidden pub worth visiting. Quiet atmosphere, wide choice of draft and canned beers, not to mention the whisky... The internal space is small, around 10 tables for around twenty people, but it also has tables outside (if it's not too cold). They don't do food...here you just drink!! The right choice for drinking in company at very honest prices (for beers about 1-1.5 pounds less than other pubs). Advised!!

Typical local pub. Old and nice. Drinks only! Probably one of the most peculiar, due to its location and age.

Nice and cozy Pub perfect quiet place close to the noisy street that go to Edimburgh Castle No food only drink

Very dog friendly and people ,had a relaxing irn bru n a wee Adams wine for Meg...we will be back...

The best pub to take a break from the crowded royal mile, wide choice of beers on tap, in cans or bottles and above all whiskey. If the boy serving at the counter sees you in difficulty, he will help you choose by patiently explaining and letting you taste a few sips of beer, all at honest prices in a warm and familiar environment. For us a mandatory daily stop.

It is the most traditional and non-touristy we have seen. Underground shop. We tried whiskey and beers

We have been here in 2004 and again now. Nothing has changed 😁 Delicious

Great choice of ales. Also WiFi available.

Cask beers to take a break from the madness of the Royal Mile

Super cozy pub with lots of local drinks (beer, cider, whiskey). Very friendly staff with great know-how when it comes to drinks

The tiniest pub 🍻 I'm ever been 👌🥰. People are so polite they finish drinking and leave it a place for other customers 👌.

Great atmosphere and service! Surely one of my favorite places in the city!

Friendly staff and great atmosphere!

Stopped by for a quick drink, staff was friendly and the establishment is cozy, homie, makes you feel like you can transport in time and look at all the lawyers and everyone who used to frequent this spot many years ago

Super cozy, great staff, great drinks

Great place for a beer, fabulous atmosphere

We turned into this alley randomly and stumbled upon this incredibly cozy "basement" pub. The bartenders are very friendly. From now on, it's our must-visit spot in Edinburgh, and we recommend it to everyone.

Very small basement bar with good selection of whisky and beer. Great atmosphere. Good service and friendly fellow drinkers. I visited again today, Dec. 11th and I'm pleased to say it us as friendly and cheering as ever

Not the biggest, but one of the best!!

This place is so charming...love this pub!

Smallest pub I have visited. What an experience!

Great old fashioned pub in a great location just off the Royal Mile. Beer is good with a wide selection of zero alcohol alternatives.

Visited over and over during our time in Edinburgh, it was our favorite spot. Very cozy and has a wonderful cider selection.

Looking for a cheeky pint off the mile? This is the place. Especially if you like ale and mulled drinks. Great find!

90% of pubs in Edinburgh are tourist scams. 95% of them have friendly staff. This one falls into the category where it is not a scam and the staff is very very worthwhile listening to... if you want a whiskey adventure! Time for a haika. I wrote this while drunk Went there to drink a scotch Here i found my favourite scotch!!

Very busy, didn't eat. Fairly cheap for High Street

The Jolly Judge provides a truly authentic Edinburgh pub experience in a charming, tucked-away basement location. The cosy, low-ceilinged interior, complete with a welcoming log fire, creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation. With its range of real ales, well-kept ciders, and an impressive selection of whiskies, the Jolly Judge caters to both locals and visitors seeking a genuine taste of Scottish hospitality. The knowledgeable and friendly staff add a personal touch, making each visit feel special. Conveniently located just off the Royal Mile, it is an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the city. The unique ambience and quality offerings make it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy Edinburgh’s pub culture. Five stars well-deserved for this hidden gem.

Great bar with an impressive selection of cider and beer!

Super nice bar! Very nice waiter who advised us on whiskey, we exchanged a few words Good atmosphere!

Didn't have food but this a lovely place to have a drink. Very welcoming lovely friendly staff

Probably the best bar in Edinburgh tucked away in a former bakery xxx

Cool little pub tucked away in an alley. Beers were very good and reasonably priced. All the seats inside were taken so we sat outside on the benches and had a lovely conversation with some locals.

A small but cozy bar. The ceiling is made of old painted beams. Supply of whiskey and lager beer is sufficient. If you want to sit at the tables with five people, it is a bit cramped and it is better to stand at the bar. Good atmosphere and cozy.

Cozy little pub just off the royal mile. Felt like I was in a local pub miles from any tourist. Staff was friendly and the drinks were great!

Great little pub in the heart of the Royal Mile 💜💜💜💜💜

Really good service in here. They don’t have Guinness on tap, which is normally a disaster for me. However they recommended a local stout and went into a lot of detail about what else they had on that day. Their recommendation didn’t disappoint. It’s quite small inside and has more of a restaurant vibe compared to a “boozer”.

Excellent town centre bar hidden down a close but worth seeking out. The staff are very efficient serving a good choice of real ale well.

Stopped in here on recommendation from a local. Space inside is small but cozy and if the weather is nice they have a nice patio. Tucked away down the side from Royal Mile, this offers a cozy respite from the tourist crowds. Bartenders were friendly and prompt.

No food served here. Service was wonderful. It was a quiet Wednesday night. The cider was AMAZING the guys behind the bar really know how to recommend.

Authentic pub in the beautiful courtyard that houses the writers' museum. It does not offer meals, but only beers and some snacks (such as chips and peanuts to accompany, always for a fee) Smiling and kind staff. I recommend it for a good beer

Small local pub. Nice, there was also a quiz in the evening.

Stellar vibes—loved the carpet, the low ceilings, the cozy vibes! Even had a good sour on tap!

We always stop in for a pint at the Jolly Judge. Small but charming Pub. Excellent beer selection.

Nice athmospheric place with good craft cider. Unfortunately it's located in a very crowded touristic area and it's almost impossible to sit inside.

The Jolly Judge Pub in Edinburgh is a charming spot that perfectly combines warmth and traditional Scottish character with a modern flair. Located in the city center, this hidden gem embodies the essence of a classic Scottish pub. As you step inside, you'll find a cozy atmosphere with low wooden beams, unique decor, and comfortable seating, making it ideal for both a quiet drink after a day of sightseeing and a lively evening out with friends. The drinks menu features a fantastic selection of local and international craft beers, fine wines, and an impressive range of whiskies. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to offer great recommendations based on what you like. The food at the Jolly Judge is equally impressive, highlighting classic pub dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the haggis, and don’t miss out on the perfectly crispy and flavorful fish and chips. There are also vegetarian options available, so there’s something for everyone. What truly makes the Jolly Judge special is its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. Both regulars and tourists feel right at home, creating a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. Plus, with live music events and quiz nights, there’s always something fun happening at the pub.

Really great pub. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, they have a great selection of beers and an even better selection of whiskey. Would recommend if visiting Edinburgh

Cozy hole in the wall pub with fairy lights. The girl passionately offered whiskey to taste to help pick the Scotch most suited to our palate. Highly recommended!

Was prepared to be disappointed, as this was just off the royal mile and in festival season. But it’s a lovely cozy subterranean place and with some great cask ales - enjoyed sampling some Cromarty ones.

The Jolly Judge: A Hidden Gem Off the Royal Mile Nestled just off the bustling Royal Mile, The Jolly Judge is a charming little pub tucked away in a historic building. Despite its small size, the pub has a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. A Quaint Retreat: Historic Charm: The Jolly Judge's quaint setting, with its exposed stone walls and traditional decor, provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Friendly Service: The staff at The Jolly Judge are friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience for all patrons. A Great Drinking Hole: Relaxing Atmosphere: Whether you're looking for a quiet pint or a lively conversation, The Jolly Judge offers a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Off the Beaten Path: If you're seeking a break from the crowds on the Royal Mile, The Jolly Judge is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink. Overall: The Jolly Judge is a hidden gem that offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere. If you're looking for a great drinking hole off the beaten path, be sure to check it out!

Great for a pint but food not available.

Great non-touristy proper pub on Royal Mile. Highly recommended

Very cozy pub, good beer, normal prices. Significantly nicer inside than outside and much quieter than on the nearby Royal Mile.

Great little find. Lovely outside courtyard as well as small restaurant area. Food fairly typical of a touristy place - basic but decent. All the servers were great. If you're doing anything at The Hub or Edinburgh Castle nip into the Jolly Judge first.

A great little pub in central Edinburgh

Lovely little pub, with a nice range of beers. Only the benches are for this pub. The tables for the restaurant.

Small hidden gem near the castle... I love the outdoor seating and having a drink under the table umbrella in the rain. Inside seating is a bit limited and can get crowded. No matter how busy the inside is, you can get your drinks within few minutes of wait.

Worst glass of lager we've had in Edinburgh!

One of the best pubs I’ve ever been in… hands down. Must visit if you’re in Edinburgh.

Best picture of a judge I've ever seen

Love this hidden gem in Edinburgh, just off the royal mile. Cosy wee spot, nice for a quick pit stop whilst visiting the city

Very nice, good beer selection and a nice Scotch of the day.

Very nice staff and cute little pub!

Lovely little pub with good selection of beer/whisky/cider. Can be v busy.

I went here hoping to find traditional English beer such as a pint of cask conditioned bitter or pale ale. They had nothing like this. All of their draft beers were modern typical types that look like what would be found in a USA bar. Even the cask taps were American style IPA or stout. Also had a cider that did not turn out to be typical English style. I think the bar manager does not intend to keep the drink selection aligned with what this place is and should be, an ancient English pub.

Nice little pub for a refreshing drink and well located in the heart of Edinburgh.

Great little find just off the crowds, of people. Good choice of local craft beer. Really nice and cosy bar. Male wcs could do with a scrub. Altho my wife said the ladies were spotless Would go again Cheers guys

Great for ciders, but quite small!

Lovely little pub with great atmosphere. Thoroughly enjoyed the pub quiz! Abbie behind the bar is great and very knowledgeable about all the different drinks. So many cider options!!

Great little pub with a greater beer and cider selection and friendly staff. Always my choice if in need of refreshment near the top of the old town. Just wish it was a little bigger, or if the weather was slightly consistently better. A welcome haven from the tourist madness at all times of year.

Just a great pub with a that's cozy and fun. Good food and drink and the staff is super. A great place to hang out on a wet afternoon to warm up with a strong drink!

Award winning Ciders. Good selection of beers too.

Stumbled into this pub to grab a pint and it was so cool. Great selection of whiskey and great beers. I had the Lochlea whiskey twice and it was so smooth. If you're looking to get off your feet for a minute go here to get your pint .

Fantastic pub, best in the old town, quick and easy to get served too

I love this little pub, right smack dab on the Royal Mile which is bustling with tourist traffic. Somehow, this place feels like somewhere locals frequent, and while it's small, it doesn't feel affected by the tourist traffic. The bar staff are friendly and helpful - willing to talk to you about whisky and cider. It's a great respite after a day of sightseeing in Edinburgh.

Brilliant pub hidden away from the main road .a nice little gem

Lovely location in the basement of an old building. Don't ask me what year because the bartender who's worked there for 3 months favorite answer to all questions is I don't know 😕 This fairly new hidden place has huge potential, but I suggest the owners set the level of their bartenders hospitality a couple stars higher

It's a lovely wee pub. With it being sunny we stood outside. Shame they don't have tables to sit on outside. Not very disabled friendly as narrow stairs into the pub, and narrow stairs up to the toilets. We all enjoyed it all the same though

Nice place with great beers! Warm and jolly atmosphere!

A cozy pub, in a side street. A nice small selection of whiskeys and a selection of ciders and beers!

Hidden corner to escape from the madding crowd and enjoy a good pint

Very nice pub. Friendly service!

Well hidden but very valid, it wins the award for best whiskey bar in the city every year! Super recommended visit

Great selection of vintage Lambic at great prices. Good location.

If you like an old time Scottish pub, with a great, cozy atmosphere and fantastic beer, you found the right place. Be prepared to wait, as there is not a lot of space!

Super nice place to have a drink with friends. Highly recommended

Lovely small pub with a pretty good selection of beer.

Great little hide away pub for a few drinks.

Been here a lot over the last 5 years, staff and choice of drinks are brilliant. One of my favourite places in Edinburgh.

This place is truly unique and special. It shouldn't be this great because it's in the middle of some of the heaviest tourist traffic in town. But it's through a little "close" and only for the adventurous. Not necessarily divey but it's a bit of a hole in the wall. You walk down the stairs into a tiny little pub full of life and good vibes. Friendly barkeepers and good conversation and on a busy day the crowd flows out into the courtyard. One of the best pubs in this part of town.

Cute little Scottish pub with good beers. We didn't try any food, but the beer and ginger beer were good.

A small place hidden away from the main drag. What I loved was the vast variety of ciders and beers. Loved trying the different ciders especially, and the guy helping me choose let me try some to make sure I was ordering what I wanted. Really enjoyed. Normal (expensive) pricing for the area. But the ciders are actually a bit cheaper if you stick to some of the semis and the drys.

Nice pub. Proper pub. Interesting beer. Not a real ale drinker by any stretch but something for everyone. If there's a fault service is sometimes slow and some bar staff could be cheerier.

Good selection of beers and a cozy atmosphere

Wow! Fantastic pub. Great range of beers, whiskies and ciders. Intimate atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly staff, decent prices- and right in the heart of tourist-trap Edinburgh. I found it by chance- not wanting to join my family at the nearby Obscura- and only afterwards discovered other favourable reviews. CAMRA seem to love it too (although that’s not always a good indication of a decent pub, sadly). Not child-friendly (although they are accepted in the outside courtyard) - also no food (in April 2024), contrary to what some listings state. A must-visit just off the royal mile. :-)

Good place to sip a beer in a calm and relaxing atmosphere! Important hydration step during a day’s walk

Small place. Not friendly. Beers mainly. No sightseeing, no view, just a small pub inside. Strange door.

Great little bar with very reasonable prices

Nice little pub, hidden near the royal mile.

Proper old fashioned pub hidden within a historical alley. It is quite tiny but that is kind of its charm. Cozy carpet interior with a great cask and whisky selection. Nice and gentle staff. And prices are great for central Edinburgh. A hidden gem