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.
13. The Caves
Another atmospheric Niddry Street bar, The Caves is run by comedy specialists Just The Tonic during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with nearly 100 shows taking place in its various subterranean rooms. Critically-acclaimed comic Alfie Brown is appearing here, as is Fringe favourite 'Eric's Tales of the Sea - a Submariner's Yarn'. Meanwhile 'Live at the Big Cave' is one of the best late night shows in town. Photo: Google Maps