It’s nearly time for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to take over the theatres, gyms, hotels, and streets of Scotland’s Capital.
Taking place from August 2-26 (although there are previews in the days running up to the official launch), there are over 3,500 shows taking place, from music and comedy, to theatre and dance.
In recent decades, pubs have increasingly been joining the fun by hosting shows - particularly those programmed by the PBH Free Fringe and the Laughing Horse Free Festival (although it should be noted that while the shows are technically free, audience members are encouraged to drop some cash into the collection bucket at the end).
It means you can enjoy a drink in one of the city’s most famous boozers and catch a show without leaving the building - particularly good if the weather isn’t playing ball.
Here are 13 of the best, and some of the great shows they are hosting in basements and backrooms.
5. The Counting House
One of a trio of PBH Free Fringe venues on Nicolson Street - along with the Pear Tree (and it's wonderful beer garden featuring live music and performances) and 32 Below - The Counting House hosts hundreds of shows in the three weeks of the festivals. Get your children dancing at 'CeilidhKids at the Fringe', enjoy a new show from Fringe favourite Glenn Wool, or enjoy LOTS of audience participation with John Robertson's 'The Human Hurricane'. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. The Hanover Tap
Right in the middle of town on Hanover Street and formerly known as the Jekyll & Hyde, the Hanover Tap is one of the longest-running hosts of the Free Festival and home to a number of cracking beeers. Comedians appearing there this year include Matt Wills and Lee Hudson. Photo: Google Maps
7. Fingers Piano Bar
Tucked away in a basement on Frederick Street, Fingers Piano Bar is a popular spot for a tipple and some live music year-round. During August they host a series of tuneful Fringe shows, including regulars The Creative Martyrs, tribute act 'Meat Loaf – Just the Best Bits' and a daily 'Singalonga Pub Quiz'. | Google Maps
8. Bar 50
Yet another Cowgate pub hosting Laughing Horse Free Festival shows, Bar 50 is part of a youth hostel and boasts a terrace, pool tables, an impressive cocktail list and a range of shows, including local favourite Vladimir McTavish and Adele Cliff. Photo: Google Maps