One of the most legendary and affectionately considered pubs in Edinburgh and known more commonly as the ‘Diggers’ thanks to it being sandwiched between two graveyards, this is already a common watering hole for many locals and tourists alike.
Much like the TARDIS, the Diggers may look small from the outside, but stepping through the doors draws you into a high-ceilinged, light and ornately decorated bar. Both inside and outside have just received a fresh lick of paint but the back bar display, featuring a selection of the pub’s 200-strong, single malt selection is really something to behold. The pub is also ranked as one of the must-visit attractions in Edinburgh by Lonely Planet. If you’re a real ale drinker then you’ll love the extremely rare, brass Aitkens Toll founts; once powered by water, now by air and a delightful way of delivering a cask-drawn pint to the customer.
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Diggers (The Athletic Arms) is an Edinburgh institution regarding pubs. It is best known by its nickname of the Diggers which comes from the fact that it was a popular haunt of the gravediggers from the nearby cemetery many, many years ago. It has also been known for people, not from Edinburgh, to become confused when meeting someone at Diggers as there is nothing of that name outside. 😅 It is also well known for its 80 shilling beer or “heavy”. It has a good selection of other beers and an impressive selection of whiskies. The decor is very much traditional and often seen as an old man's pub. There are a large number of beer related mirrors on the walls and also several TVs for watching sports. A sign also proclaims the pub's pies were pie of the year a while back. Unfortunately we did not find this still to be the case, especially as they had obviously been heated in a microwave (the pastry was soft) and were not fully heated. The staff were friendly. Definitely worth a visit
An obviously great pub. The main draw is the whisky list, which is incredible. Encyclopaedic, like the wine list at a 3 star Michelin place, but also emminently affordable. Good beer selection, and a nice ambiance - not too heaving or loud.
Best pub ever, particularly on matchday. Food is limited but chicken curry pies are delicious. Great range of beers and whiskies. Always well staffed by friendly and professional staff. Fabulous match day atmosphere.
We went to the place for our graduation batch after party The amount of whisky selection they behold is extremely impressive And if you are like us who graduated in brewing and Distilling, or enthusiast about whisky it's your place. The bar person was so polite and helpful can't even explain there patience with such massive groups The place has my heart now.
Whenever we're in the area we always take time to stop at the Athletic Arms for a pint or some whiskey. Great ales and excellent selection of whisky and other spirits. Food is also great, especially the pies. The atmosphere is always relaxed and the place itself looks great with comfortable benches. And you should also get a diggers t-shirt while you're there!
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Opening Times
Mon | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Tue | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Wed | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Thur | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Fri | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Sat | 11:00 – 01:00 |
Sun | 11:00 – 01:00 |
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Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH11
The Mccowans Brewhouse in Edinburgh is a flaming great pub restaurant. Join us for some of the best steaks around and our famous food challenges. We offer a friendly welcome, unbeatable value and a great place to meet up with friends and family.
Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH11
With a good selection of guest and in house ales, whiskies and wines the Golden Rule is a popular place with locals and ale appreciators from all over the city.