With over 700 pubs in the city alone there are names ranging from the exotic to the (seemingly) obvious. Here we take a look at ten of the oldest, and the stories behind them.
1. Deacon Brodie’s Tavern
One of the most famous pubs on the Royal Mile, Deacon Brodies is named after the larger than life character who was said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Photo: TSPL
2. The Ensign Ewart
The Ensign Ewart is named after an Ayrshire born military hero who was famed for capturing the regimental eagle standard of the French 45th Regiment (the French Invincibles) at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Photo: TSPL
3. The White Hart Inn
Parts of the White Hart are said to date back to 1516 and its name goes even further back to an incident in 1128 when King David I is said to have encountered a white stag while hunting in what is now Holyrood Park. Photo: TSPL
4. The Banshee Labyrinth
This popular bar is thought to be haunted by a screaming woman - the banshee. The pub has a maze of rooms that extend off the main bar – hence the second part of the name. Photo: Facebook