Speakeasys: The Real Hole in the Walls

Speakeasys are one of the most low-key, underground and well-kept secrets you can think of, given the history. However, here in Edinburgh the idea of a speakeasy bar is an oxymoron. In Scotland the Temperance Act of 1913 didn't even keep the country dry of alcohol, in fact it allowed small districts to decide if they wanted to cut the alcohol cold turkey. Only 23 of the 253 districts voted to be dry. Scotland never really experienced prohibition and thus there was no need to have speakeasys.  

However, the modern Edinburgh nightlife is so bustling, over saturated and full of repeated favourites, that people are itching to go somewhere new. Somewhere different. Somewhere that will serve them alcohol but also provide an experience separate from their local pub or frequented club. The solution to this is a hole in the wall with exclusive entry to those in the know. So those who don't know, won't know and can't know unless we tell them so. 

One of the most popular speakeasys and hidden bars in Edinburgh is Never Really Here. The bar is hidden off Rose Street and is so inconspicuous you may think the entrance was just a fire exit with a fancy door knock.  

Never Really Here is an incredibly rustic and grunge themed bar, that is contradicted by the acoustic, jazz and blues music played by the bar man. Whereas this is not live, the music is still very tasteful and enjoyable. To add to the experience a top of the speakeasy's aspect, the bar has no menu. They encourage you to speak with the bartender, going in depth into your palette, preferred spirit and how much alcohol you usually drink. This does set the bar apart but has left people in the past a little weary. Mainly because you have no clue what you are going to get, or more importantly, how much this will cost. I would have to say that taking a chance for a special occasion or a treat-yourself day is the best way to experience this. Not necessarily a cheap night out here.  

Visitors love the bar's choice of decor, especially the free-handed writing and drawings from past attendees. As well as having the concept of their bar rooted in history, customers leave a slice of themselves from over the years. Having a piece of you being a part of the bar can be appealing.  

This hidden bar may be what you're looking for to spice up a regular night out, a special occasion with friends or an intimate date you're looking to impress. Especially as the bar is on the smaller side and is low lit.  

Panda and sons on Queen Street are a complete juxtaposition to this. Whereas both bars are loved by their frequent visitors and have a fair amount of coverage on social media. This bar is bursting at the seams no matter the time of the week. The bar is hidden downstairs behind a bookshelf, that is hidden by the exterior of the building designed to look like a barbershop. Doubling up on the mystery, Panda and Sons creates much more of a traditional speakeasy vibe.  

Reminiscent of what you'd see in a film about the 50s, you walk in and its chatter and drinks all around. Their interior is much more classic with leather booth seats, stylish red wooden walls and pandas everywhere. Complimenting this luxurious and nostalgic theme is their funk and soul music. Again, this is not live because honestly, they do not have space amongst the customers to host a band. If the atmosphere is what you are looking out for, this is your spot.  

Speakeasys and hidden bars are a fantastic addition to your repertoire. They provide the service of a regular bar or pub with the draw of an experience. The music they play, and the position of these bars allow you to slot them into your regular pub crawl journey and makes them ironically accessible. Although, I am sure there are many more that haven't been mentioned here sprawled across the city. Keeping in mind the hundreds of ancient buildings within Edinburgh. Surely one or two must be a secret dungeon speakeasy, no? 

Given social media it definitely becomes counterintuitive to the idea of a speakeasy. However, they still remain exclusive unless you're actively researching for hidden bars. Locals will find the idea of a hidden bar perfect to spice things up and tourists will do well to experience something a little outside of the National Museum and Cowgate.

Can you find these bars, or even ones that have not been mentioned?