TOP 20 best things to do in Edinburgh at night

Edinburgh's museums, however exciting they might be, usually close around 5:00 PM. However, there are a few options for those wishing to engage in evening cultural activities.

The National Museum of Scotland — one of the most popular places to go in Edinburgh — houses a vast collection covering the natural world, world cultures, science, art, design and fashion, and Scottish history. Dating back to the 19th century, this establishment is stepping away from a traditional museum role and moving towards engaging new audiences.

Check their program to see their After Hours events: from film screenings to science talks with food and drinks and special evenings when the exhibitions are tailored for autistic audiences. But if you want to visit during the day, we've got you covered with our audio tour.

Specialization
Natural history, science, and history of Scotland

While the Royal Mile is the main medieval artery of the old town, Princes Street was built from the late 18th century onwards and is Edinburgh's major shopping street. Here, you can come across well-known high-street brands, including Primark, Marks & Spencer, H&M, River Island, and Dr. Martens, as well as Sports Direct and the bookshop Waterstones.

Usually, Thursday is the day when shops are open till late, so in case you were up for some shopping after a whole day of history and culture, Princes Street is where we recommend going. There are a few historic landmarks here, too: even at night, you'll definitely notice the grand building of the Balmoral Hotel, the huge spire of the Scott monument, and, of course, the gorgeous Edinburgh Castle sitting above the lush Princes Street Gardens.

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High street

Scotland, and Edinburgh in particular, is revered for its iconic whiskies. But obviously, you're not here just to get plastered (right?) One particular local evening experience best suited for adults is whisky tasting — which can be both exciting and educational.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is a serious project: it endeavors to tell its visitors about the joys of Scottish whisky by introducing them to a number of different kinds of the signature spirit and an informative guided tour by the end of which you'll know more about how whisky is produced. One of the highlights of the attraction is the priceless Collection that comprises 3,384 bottles of Scotch: just basking in its amber glow is bound to make you all warm and cozy!

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Whisky tasting and educational tour

Mary King's Close is a historic passage in the Old Town located literally under the Royal Mile. The reason? Back in the mid-18th century, due to the building of the Royal Exchange, the street's residents were evicted, the upper floors of the buildings were demolished, and the lower stories were sealed up — staying buried for about two and a half centuries.

The close's history is saturated with grim tales that involve murder, plague, and severed limbs — no wonder the place has a reputation for being haunted. If you're not spooked too easily and are looking for things to do in Edinburgh at night, check out a local tour where you'll wander through the maze of dark passages led by guides dressed up as one-time residents of the close. The last tour starts at 7:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.



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Spooky tour

Home to a university astronomy research group, an institution of a UK Research Council, and a Visitor Centre, the Royal Observatory opened in 1896. It is located on the steep Blackford Hill, to the south of the city. The Observatory hosts astronomy talks (both for complete novices and those who have some knowledge of astronomy), virtual sky tours, as well as school and community events. At public astronomy evenings, you can hear the story of the establishment, explore the iconic Victorian telescope dome, and learn about the state-of-the-art technology that is being used these days.

It's a perfect spot for stargazing (naturally, weather permitting). So, if you're seeking some truly unique things to do in Edinburgh at night and not some run-of-the-mill accessible attractions, we think this might be just it!

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Space science

So you've seen some landmarks, trudged the cobbled passages, and been to a pub (or four). Time for something fancy for a change? We have a place in mind that would work particularly well for couples.

Café Royal Circle Bar is one of the finest local bars: this elegant venue opened in its current location in 1863. Its interior features beautiful stained glass, late Victorian plasterwork, and six unique Doulton ceramic murals (portraying Benjamin Franklin, Michael Faraday, and James Watt, among others). Step on the marble floor, look at the ornate ceiling and touch the original red marble bar counter.

The establishment is not cheap, but it wouldn't cost you an arm and a leg either. There's a nice selection of ales and whiskies, but the highlight of the place is the food: the seafood-dominated menu is excellent. The Scottish oysters are to die for.

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Seafood bar

For a change of scenery, consider a day trip to Portobello, a residential suburb of Edinburgh with a promenade and a sandy beach. It's only about half an hour from central Edinburgh by bus, which makes it quite easy to switch into seaside holiday mode (that's right, Scotland is not always cold, gloomy, and mysterious).

We suggest going in the evening, and, obviously, during the warmer season: sunsets at the beach are always amazing. Grab a slice of yummy pizza at Civerinos Slice overlooking the seafront (bear in mind they close around 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM), and when you're full and aesthetically pleased, head over to The Esplanade (open until 1:00 AM) to have a couple of pints in a traditional pub with a view of the sea. Dogs are very welcome, too!
No trip to Beverly Hills is complete without visiting some great eateries. Lawry's on La Cienega Boulevard, opened in 1938, is the one you definitely shouldn't miss. This upscale gourmet restaurant specializes in world-famous roasted prime ribs.

For many years, ribs were the only option on the menu. Today, you can also choose vegetarian specials or lobster tails, but the main focus is still on carved-to-order roast beef. Go there for a unique dining experience that starts with the chef rolling a large silver cart to your table and asking which cut you want.

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Seaside

Are you tired of medieval walks, Victorian ghosts, and traditional pubs? These are not the only things that can entertain you after dark in Edinburgh. Let us suggest that you try a different kind of retro bar: NQ64 Northern Quarter, a chain with venues all over the UK.

This neon-lit space is full of vintage arcade games and classic consoles and would be particularly appreciated by old-school game aficionados. Open until 3:00 AM and serving craft beers and cocktails, this place will definitely bring back those childhood memories. Play Guitar Hero, TMNT, Mortal Kombat, Pac-Man, or pinball in this vibrant and nostalgic space. And when you get out, you'll get another chance to embrace the views of Edinburgh's iconic castle.

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Vintage gaming bar

This venue is an award-winning comedy club located right between the Royal Mile and Cowgate. Ranked Edinburgh's number one comedy club by Tripadvisor, it is open until midnight every day of the week, so if you're up for some quality stand-up comedy, look no further. It's a snug and quirky place with friendly staff, reasonably priced drinks at the bar, and, of course, some hilarious comedy acts.

Named the 'Beating Heart' of the Fringe by The Telegraph, the Monkey Barrel is also one of the venues of Edinburgh's famed festival that turns the whole city into a huge performance space for three weeks in August each year. So just in case you're around at the end of summer, drop by to see some of the top acts and laugh your head off.

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Comedy club

Edinburgh sure loves its festivals and parties — speaking of which, here's one that can't be missed. Hogmanay, the Scottish celebration of the New Year, is one of the largest street feasts in the world that covers four days of street acts, processions, concerts, and fireworks. Officially organized since 1993 around Princes Street, it's a ticketed event that attracts thousands of revelers. Live music, DJs, giant screens, funfair attractions, street food, and drinks create a festive mood throughout the old town. At midnight, a cannon is fired at Edinburgh Castle, and an epic fireworks display ensues.

Just remember to get your tickets early (the event gets sold out fast), dress properly, and bear in mind it's about to get really crowded — but also really fun!

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Massive street party

Burns Night is a traditional event to celebrate the life and poetry of the 18th-century Scottish poet Robert Burns, usually held on his birthday, January 25th. The so-called 'Burns supper' is the staple of the night, including a traditional meal of haggis, neeps and tatties. Historically, the first such supper was held by Burns' friends on the fifth anniversary of his death and has become a regular thing since then. Bagpipe music, Scotch, and poetry recitals, including the 'Address to a Haggis' and 'Auld Lang Syne', are also part of the celebration.

Edinburgh offers numerous opportunities to mark the occasion, be it a traditional feast or a night of music, singing, and dancing during the cèilidh. Brush up on your Burns to prepare, and remember to stand for the haggis!

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Traditional celebration