Six Nations, Calcutta Cup, Autumn Internationals—Scottish people absolutely love rugby. And there’s nothing quite like watching it live with fellow sports fans, pint in hand, and cheering on your team inside a cosy Edinburgh pub.
Whether you’re a local looking for your new favourite match-day hangout or a tourist hoping to experience the Scottish rugby crowd, Edinburgh has no shortage of pubs where you can enjoy the game in style. From traditional spots packed with regulars to trendy bars with big screens and hearty food, there’s always a seat waiting for you.
Ready to find your next game-day spot? Here are some of the best rugby pubs in Edinburgh and soak up every tackle, try, and triumph!
Black Ivy – A Stylish Spot for Sport Lovers
Location: 4 Alvanley Terrace, Edinburgh EH9 1DU, United Kingdom
Watching rugby at Black Ivy is an experience themselves where you can enjoy the competitive spirit of rugby in a chic and stylish venue! We’ve got big screens in the bar, full sound in the Clubroom, and even outdoor terrace screens so you won’t miss a single pass, tackle, or try.
If you’re feeling hungry mid-match, you can order our Bar Bites where you can grab any 3 dishes for just £21. You can also make the most of our Local Luxury for Less deal during midweek games with a juicy burger and a pint for only £16.
Add great food, proper pints, and a buzzing atmosphere, and you’ve got the ultimate spot to cheer on your team. Bring your mates, grab a pint, and soak up every minute of the action! Walk-ins are always welcome, but we recommend booking ahead as seats get filled up fast, especially during rugby season.
Athletic Arms
Location: 1-3 Angle Park Terrace, Edinburgh EH11 2JX
If you want to watch live sport in a traditional Edinburgh pub, Athletic Arms (or Diggers, as the locals call it, since it’s located between two graveyards) is the place to be!
This historic pub is a favourite for its incredible whisky and cask ale selection, with over 500 whiskies and 22 taps ready to pour the perfect pint. If you’re feeling hungry, they also offer hearty pub classics like award-winning butcher pies, toasties, homemade soup, or some tasty sharing plates while you catch every tackle and try.
It’s the perfect spot for fans who want great drinks, proper comfort food, and that friendly, match-day atmosphere.
If you want to book a table, you can call them at 0131 337 3822. Aside from live sports, they also host other events like whisky tastings, quiz nights, darts, and dominos.
The Pear Tree
Location: 38 W Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DD
If you prefer to catch all the rugby action outdoors, then make your way to The Pear Tree! Situated in The House, this iconic pub boasts the biggest LED screen in a beer garden anywhere in Scotland. The garden’s stone walls, picnic benches, and lively crowd will absolutely give you a real stadium feel!
If you’re not a fan of the outdoors, no worries! There are plenty of screens inside the pub too, so you won’t miss a minute of the game.
When it comes to drinks, there’s no shortage of options—beers, rums, vodkas, and gins, you name it. And to keep you fuelled for all the cheering and chanting, The Pear Tree’s menu has you covered with hearty plated meals, tasty finger foods, and juicy burgers that hit the spot.
If you’re planning to join the crowd here, book a table in advance through their website to secure a spot!
Biddy Mulligans
Experience a proper craic while watching the rugby at Biddy Mulligans! This beloved Irish bar brings a slice of Ireland right to the heart of Edinburgh. Think traditional charm, live music every single day of the year, and an electric atmosphere that kicks into high gear when the big game is on!
Raise a glass (or two) of beer, try a few gins, or warm up with a smooth Irish whiskey because Biddy has all the essentials to keep your spirits high. And to keep your stomach full, they serve up hearty breakfasts, comforting roasts, and sweet treats to keep you going from kick-off to the final whistle.
To make sure you have a spot to enjoy the game, you can book your table through their website!
Teuchter’s Bar & Bunker
Location: 26 William St, Edinburgh EH3 7NH, United Kingdom
Rugby fans, whisky lovers, and craft beer enthusiasts all feel right at home at Teuchter’s Bar & Bunker! This spot is renowned for serving up top-notch Scottish cask and keg beers, an impressive selection of malt whisky, and of course, showing all the action of every rugby game.
Pair your game day pints with hearty pub food, from its comforting dishes that hit the spot when celebrating a win or drowning your sorrows after a tough loss. A warm, laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and screens showing every nail-biting moment make this a must-visit for any rugby fan in Edinburgh.
Ready to catch the match here? Swing by or book ahead to claim your perfect viewing spot!
Grab a Pint and Cheer On!
Edinburgh has no shortage of fantastic spots to watch rugby. Whether you’re after a lively vibe, a cosy corner with your mates, or a classy pint with the match on, there’s a pub here for you.
So, round up your fellow fans, pick your perfect pub, and get ready to soak up the atmosphere. And if you want an unbeatable mix of big screens, great food, and buzzing energy—Black Ivy is ready to welcome you!
