Are you a sports enthusiast visiting or living in Edinburgh and looking for the perfect spot to catch a game? Look no further! Edinburgh boasts a fantastic array of pubs that cater to sports fans, offering a vibrant atmosphere, large screens, and a wide selection of drinks and food. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best Edinburgh pubs where you can enjoy live sports.

Why Choose Edinburgh Pubs for Live Sports?

Edinburgh's pubs offer a unique experience for watching live sports. Unlike your living room, these pubs provide a communal atmosphere where you can share the excitement and tension with fellow fans. The roar of the crowd, the clinking of glasses, and the passionate discussions create an unforgettable experience. Moreover, Edinburgh pubs often feature multiple screens, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the action, no matter where you're seated. Many pubs also offer special deals on drinks and food during games, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing.

Edinburgh pubs go the extra mile to create a welcoming environment for sports fans. Many decorate their interiors with sports memorabilia, team colors, and flags, adding to the immersive experience. Some pubs even host pre-game and post-game events, such as quizzes, raffles, and live music, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The staff at these pubs are usually knowledgeable about sports and happy to engage in conversations about the game, making you feel like part of a community.

Furthermore, choosing a pub in Edinburgh to watch live sports allows you to explore different neighborhoods and experience the city's diverse culture. From traditional pubs in the Old Town to modern bars in the New Town, each establishment offers a unique ambiance and charm. You can discover hidden gems and local favorites while indulging in your passion for sports. This combination of sports, social interaction, and cultural exploration makes Edinburgh pubs the ideal choice for watching live games.

Top Edinburgh Pubs for Live Sports

1. Belushi's Edinburgh

Belushi's Edinburgh is a renowned sports bar located in the heart of the city, known for its lively atmosphere and dedication to showing a wide range of sports. This popular venue attracts a diverse crowd of locals and tourists, all united by their love for sports. Belushi's boasts multiple large screens and projectors, ensuring that every seat in the house offers a clear view of the action. Whether it's football, rugby, basketball, or any other major sporting event, Belushi's is committed to broadcasting it live.

The atmosphere at Belushi's is electric, especially during big games. The pub is always buzzing with energy, creating an infectious sense of excitement. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring that you're well-cared for throughout your visit. Belushi's also offers a wide selection of drinks, including local and international beers, as well as a menu of classic pub fare. From burgers and pizzas to nachos and wings, there's something to satisfy every appetite. The combination of great food, drinks, and sports makes Belushi's a top choice for sports fans in Edinburgh.

In addition to its regular sports screenings, Belushi's Edinburgh also hosts special events and promotions. These include pre-game parties, post-game celebrations, and themed nights, adding to the overall entertainment. The pub often features live music and DJs, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. Belushi's also offers student discounts and loyalty programs, making it an affordable option for students and frequent visitors. With its central location, lively atmosphere, and commitment to sports, Belushi's is a must-visit destination for any sports enthusiast in Edinburgh.

2. The Three Sisters

The Three Sisters is a legendary Edinburgh pub located in the Cowgate, famous for its expansive outdoor courtyard and vibrant atmosphere. This iconic pub is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a unique and memorable experience. The Three Sisters is particularly popular for showing live sports, with a massive outdoor screen that transforms the courtyard into a bustling sports arena. Whether it's a football match, a rugby game, or any other major sporting event, The Three Sisters provides an unrivaled viewing experience.

The atmosphere at The Three Sisters is always lively, with a mix of locals, students, and tourists creating a vibrant and energetic crowd. The outdoor courtyard is a major draw, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the game. The pub also features multiple indoor screens, ensuring that you don't miss a moment of the action, even if you prefer to stay inside. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring that you're well-cared for throughout your visit. The Three Sisters also offers a wide selection of drinks, including local beers, spirits, and cocktails, as well as a menu of pub classics.

The Three Sisters is not just a pub; it's an entertainment destination. The venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, comedy shows, and themed parties. The outdoor courtyard is often transformed into a festival space, with food stalls, bars, and entertainment stages. The Three Sisters is also a popular spot for pre-game and post-game celebrations, with DJs and live bands providing the soundtrack to the festivities. With its unique atmosphere, expansive outdoor space, and commitment to entertainment, The Three Sisters is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy live sports in Edinburgh.

3. The Tron

The Tron is a traditional Scottish pub located on Hunter Square, just off the Royal Mile, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This historic pub is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, known for its traditional décor, friendly staff, and commitment to showing live sports. The Tron features multiple screens throughout the pub, ensuring that you can catch all the action, no matter where you're seated. Whether it's football, rugby, or any other major sporting event, The Tron provides a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.

The atmosphere at The Tron is relaxed and inviting, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy a game with friends. The pub's traditional décor, with its wooden furnishings and cozy lighting, creates a warm and welcoming ambiance. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that you feel right at home. The Tron also offers a wide selection of drinks, including local ales, Scottish whiskies, and a variety of spirits. The pub's menu features classic pub fare, with a focus on traditional Scottish dishes. From hearty stews to fish and chips, there's something to satisfy every appetite.

The Tron is more than just a pub; it's a part of Edinburgh's history. The pub has been a fixture of the city for centuries, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The Tron is also known for its live music sessions, showcasing local talent and providing entertainment throughout the week. The pub often hosts special events and promotions, adding to the overall atmosphere. With its traditional charm, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to showing live sports, The Tron is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a true Scottish pub.

4. Salt Horse

Salt Horse is a craft beer bar located on Blackfriars Street, offering a wide selection of beers and a relaxed atmosphere for watching live sports. This modern bar is a favorite among beer enthusiasts and sports fans alike, known for its extensive beer list and commitment to showing a variety of sporting events. Salt Horse features multiple screens throughout the bar, ensuring that you can catch all the action while enjoying a pint of your favorite craft beer. Whether it's football, rugby, or any other major sporting event, Salt Horse provides a unique and enjoyable viewing experience.

The atmosphere at Salt Horse is laid-back and friendly, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a game with friends. The bar's modern décor, with its exposed brick walls and industrial lighting, creates a stylish and comfortable ambiance. The staff are knowledgeable about beer and sports, happy to offer recommendations and engage in conversations about the game. Salt Horse offers a constantly rotating selection of craft beers, with a focus on local and international breweries. The bar also offers a small menu of snacks and light bites, perfect for pairing with your beer.

Salt Horse is more than just a beer bar; it's a community hub. The bar hosts regular events, including beer tastings, brewery tap takeovers, and live music sessions. Salt Horse is also a supporter of local sports teams, often hosting pre-game and post-game events for fans. With its extensive beer selection, relaxed atmosphere, and commitment to showing live sports, Salt Horse is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to combine their love of beer and sports in Edinburgh.

5. McSorley's Irish Bar

McSorley's Irish Bar is a traditional Irish pub located on Forrest Road, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere and a great spot to watch live sports. This popular pub is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, known for its friendly staff, live music, and commitment to showing a wide range of sporting events. McSorley's features multiple screens throughout the pub, ensuring that you can catch all the action while enjoying a pint of Guinness. Whether it's football, rugby, or any other major sporting event, McSorley's provides an authentic Irish pub experience.

The atmosphere at McSorley's is lively and inviting, making it a great place to socialize and enjoy a game with friends. The pub's traditional Irish décor, with its wooden furnishings and Irish memorabilia, creates a cozy and authentic ambiance. The staff are friendly and welcoming, ensuring that you feel right at home. McSorley's offers a wide selection of drinks, including Irish beers, whiskies, and spirits. The pub's menu features classic Irish dishes, such as Irish stew, fish and chips, and bangers and mash. McSorley's also hosts live music sessions, showcasing traditional Irish music and creating a vibrant atmosphere.

McSorley's Irish Bar is more than just a pub; it's a piece of Ireland in Edinburgh. The pub is a popular spot for celebrating Irish holidays, such as St. Patrick's Day, with special events and promotions. McSorley's is also a supporter of local sports teams, often hosting pre-game and post-game events for fans. With its traditional Irish charm, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to showing live sports, McSorley's is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience a true Irish pub in Edinburgh.

Tips for Enjoying Live Sports in Edinburgh Pubs

• Arrive Early: Popular pubs can get crowded, especially during major sporting events. Arriving early ensures you get a good seat and avoid disappointment.
• Check the Schedule: Confirm that the pub is showing the specific game you want to watch. Many pubs have websites or social media pages where they post their schedules.
• Book in Advance: For big games, consider booking a table in advance to guarantee a spot.
• Try Local Beers: Edinburgh has a thriving craft beer scene. Sample some local brews while you watch the game.
• Respect the Atmosphere: Be mindful of other patrons and avoid excessive noise or disruptive behavior.
• Engage with Fellow Fans: Share the excitement with other fans and make new friends.
• Enjoy the Food: Many Edinburgh pubs offer delicious food menus. Take advantage of the opportunity to try some local specialties.
• Stay Safe: Drink responsibly and plan your transportation home in advance.

Conclusion

Edinburgh offers a fantastic selection of pubs for watching live sports, each with its unique atmosphere and charm. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these pubs provide the perfect setting to enjoy your favorite games with friends and fellow fans. From traditional Scottish pubs to lively Irish bars and modern craft beer venues, there's something for everyone. So, grab your jersey, gather your friends, and head to one of these top Edinburgh pubs for an unforgettable sports-watching experience! Enjoy the game, guys!