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From Smooth to Swing: 4 of Edinburgh’s Finest Jazz Clubs
There’s something about jazz that just hits differently. My first real experience with Edinburgh’s jazz scene was back in my university days.
After a long day of finals, I was wandering the chilly streets (winter in edinburgh), looking for a way to relax and stumbled across a dimly lit club. The faint sound of a saxophone drew me in, and before I knew it, I was completely lost in the music.
If you’re looking to discover a different side of Edinburgh, I’ve got you covered. Let me show you some of the best hidden spots to enjoy live jazz in the city.
The Jazz Bar
Media Credit: thejazzbar
Website: https://www.thejazzbar.co.uk/
Address: 1a Chambers St
Contact Information: 0131 220 4298
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 7pm-11pm
- Tuesday: 7pm-2am
- Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday: 5pm-2am
- Friday: 5pm-3am
- Saturday: 2pm-3am
Notable Performers: Nick and Justyna Mushli, The Melotones Trio, Hot Tin Roof, Velvet, and Dr. Lee’s Prescription
Available Amenities: Food and drinks
Admission Fees: From ￡9
Established in 2005, The Jazz Bar is Scotland’s longest-standing independent jazz venue, and it’s earned its reputation as a go-to spot for music lovers of all ages and tastes. With seven major awards, this place is a staple in the local music scene.
What’s great about the bar is that they’ve got a wide, and we mean wide variety of jazz styles, from acoustic to blues. Thus, catering to all kinds of tastes, which is why we highly recommend viewing their programme to see what’s new.
The venue itself is cozy and intimate, but one thing to note is that it’s located in a basement with stair access only. Unfortunately, this can be a challenge for those with mobility issues since there’s no lift available.
Pro Tip:
If you’re into dancing, stick around until midnight when they clear the space and transform it into a dance floor.
Whighams Jazz
Media Credit: bluebellswingband
Website: https://whighams.com/live-music/
Address: 13 Hope St
Contact Information: 0131 225 8674
Operating Hours: Sunday: 8pm-11pm
Notable Performers: Colin Steele, Auld Alliance Quintet, Terri Shaltiel, Elaine Crighton, and Cow Cow Boogie
Available Amenities: Food and drinks
Admission Fees: £5
Whighams Jazz Club is one of Edinburgh’s top spots for live jazz, regularly attracting big names like pianist John Colianni, vocalists Liane Carroll and Anita Wardell, guitarist Jim Mullen, pianist Brian Kellock, and saxophonist Konrad Wiszniewski, among others.
Founded in 2009 by musicians, Whighams has become a Sunday night staple. They also host a Singer’s Evening on the second Tuesday of every month, giving vocalists a chance to perform and gain experience in front of a supportive crowd.
Beyond the music, Whighams is also known for its food and drinks. Their ginger beer is a standout, but if that’s not your thing, be sure to explore their impressive wine list.
Pro Tip:
To stay updated on upcoming performances and connect with Whighams Jazz’s loyal community, we highly recommend joining their Facebook group.
Edinburgh Jazz ‘n Jive Club
Media Credit: edinburghjazz
Website: https://www.edinburghjazz.com/
Address: Heriot’s Rugby Club
Contact Information: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Friday: 8pm-11pm
Notable Performers: Jerry Forde, Phoenix Jazz Band, Bill Jones, Renaissance Swing Band, and The Joys of Swing
Available Amenities: N/A
Admission Fees:
- Annual Membership Fees
- 1st January to 31st March – £10
- 1st April to 30th June – £5
- 1st July to 30th September – £5
- 1st October to 31st December – £15
- Event Entrance Fee – £12 per person per evening, with a concession of £2 for members.
Running strong for over 20 years, the Edinburgh Jazz ‘n Jive Club is as fun as it sounds, with live bands taking the stage every Friday and a lively crowd dancing the night away.
If you’re keen to dive into Edinburgh’s local music scene, this is the place to be. Most of the performers are local bands who play regularly, giving you a real taste of the city’s jazz talent.
As a non-profit, the club operates on a membership scheme, making it a perfect fit for jazz enthusiasts who can’t get enough of the music and want to support the local scene.
Pro Tip:
If you’re not ready to commit to a membership just yet, you can easily drop by for a few events to see if the club’s vibe is the right fit for you.
The Shore and Bar Restaurant
Media Credit: the.shorebar
Website: https://www.fishersrestaurants.co.uk/shore-bar-and-restaurant/
Address: 3 Shore, Leith
Contact Information: 0131 553 5080
Operating Hours:
- Sunday: 1pm-4pm
- Thursday: from 7pm
Notable Performers: Robert Pettigrew and Kenny Ellis
Available Amenities: Food and drinks, outdoor seating
Admission Fees: None
Okay, hear us out. The Shore and Bar Restaurant may not be your typical jazz club, but on Sundays, they serve up live, soulful jazz alongside their delicious meals. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy dinner date, whether you’re with loved ones or someone special.
Since it’s a popular restaurant, we highly recommend making a reservation—it can fill up fast. Be sure to book for Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or Thursdays from 7pm, as those are the times when live jazz performances add to the dining experience.
Pro Tip:
The Shore and Bar Restaurant is known for their exceptional shellfish, so don’t miss out on ordering The Shore Bar Fish Pie, King Scallops, and classic Fish & Chips—they’re must-haves on the menu.
