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Edinburgh’s Top 10 Pool Bars We Chalked Up and Enjoyed!
You know, there was a time I went out to play some pool. The plan was simple: hit a couple of pool bars, maybe charm the locals with my dazzling (read: mediocre) pool skills.
But as the night wore on, my ambition soared higher than a bald eagle in an updraft—except for my pool skills, it didn’t quite take flight. At one point, I got so spirited, I tried to invent a new shot, only to end up with the ball flying out of the table.
Well, if you’re in the mood for tales of pool bar triumphs (and a few what-was-I-thinking moments), stick around. Because Edinburgh’s pool bars are a cue-ball’s throw from ordinary, and every shot (missed or otherwise) is a story waiting to be told.
The Ball Room Sports Bar (Morningside)
Website: http://www.ball-room.co.uk/
Address: 3 Jordan Ln.
Contact details: +44 131 447 0440
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
The Ball Room Sports Bar has a boatload of pool tables, so you won’t be awkwardly hovering around waiting for your turn. And it’s not just about the pool; they’ve also got snooker, darts, and ping pong for the more coordination-gifted among us.
The grub is on point too, where you’ve got a selection of hot pies, including chicken curry pie, steak mince pie, or scotch pie, as well as drinks, perfect for refuelling mid-game.
Moreover, they even got HD screens plastered around to catch the game, so there’s never a dull moment. Plus, did I mention they throw in some live music and a dance floor for those who’ve got more rhythm than me?
Pro tip: They do killer deals during the week—like discounted pools and bites. It’s the perfect excuse to duck out of the usual midweek slump.
Boom Battle Bar Edinburgh
Website: https://boombattlebar.com/uk/edinburgh/
Address: Units 3 & 4, Omni Centre
Contact details: +44 131 332 1212
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost: ££
You’ve got to swing by the Boom Battle Bar next time you’re near the Omni Center. Pool tables here are just the beginning; they’ve got axe throwing, augmented reality darts, and crazy golf for crying out loud!
And when you need to quench your thirst, they’ve got a bar stocked with everything from craft beer to fancy cocktails. But here’s the kicker—Boom Battle is themed like an adult playground with all the neon lights and quirky decor you can imagine.
It’s the kind of spot where you can challenge your friends to a little friendly competition, and the loser wins the next round. Oh, and the food—it’s a street food paradise. I’m talking loaded fries, nachos, and all that good, hearty stuff.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out their boozy brunch—because nothing screams ‘champion’ like swinging an axe with a mimosa in hand.
Marcos (Pool, Karaoke and Pizzas)
Website: https://www.marcos.uk.com/
Address: 79 Grove St.
Contact details: +44 131 290 2205
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 3 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Cost: ££
Marcos is like someone who took pool, karaoke, and pizzas and thought, “Why not throw ’em all together?”
So they’ve got a bunch of pool tables for you and the gang, but they also have private karaoke rooms for when you want to unleash your inner rockstar (or scare off a few locals).
Pizza here is ridiculous—in the best way. It’s the perfect way to prepare for a night of singing and shooting pool. And if your vocal cords need a rest after belting out those ballads, there’s a solid drink menu to help with that.
Pro tip: Try to score a pizza and a pint deal for a steal—it’s the fuel you need for both pool prowess and karaoke king or queen status.
The Harp and Castle
Media credit: callum_th1
Website: https://m.facebook.com/harpandcastle/?ref=bookmarks
Address: 298-300 Leith Walk
Contact details: +44 131 554 6608
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: £-££
The Harp and Castle over on Leith Walk is this cosy Scottish pub that decided to throw a pool table into the mix because, well, why not? They don’t just stop at the pool, either; they’ve also got darts, dominos and poker.
And for the food, they offer classic pub grub that hits the spot every time—think fish and chips, pies, and the works. Plus, they’ve got a whiskey selection that’ll make any connoisseur do a double take.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to enjoy some pool without the crowd, aim to visit on weekday afternoons. This window often offers more open tables and a quieter setting.
The Bowlers Rest
Media credit: tommy.the.lumberjack
Website: http://www.facebook.com/bowlersrest
Address: 24 Mitchell St.
Contact details: +44 131 285 4359
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 2 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Cost: £-££
The Bowlers Rest is like a hidden gem tucked away on Mitchell St., and it’s more than just a spot to throw a few rounds of pool. They’ve got a decent number of tables, so you won’t be twiddling your thumbs waiting for your turn.
Beyond the pool, it’s the vibe here that draws people in. Now, the food menu is all about comforting pub classics, and they’ve got a beer selection that complements the grub perfectly.
What’s more, if you’re into sports, you’re in luck. They screen the big matches too, so it’s a great place to hunker down with friends on game day.
Pro tip: Remember to keep an ear out for their live music nights. It’s an added bonus to the already cracking atmosphere, and it gives you a fantastic reason to stick around even after the games have ended.
Shandon Snooker & Pool Edinburgh
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/shandonsnooker/
Address: 99 Slateford Rd.
Contact details: +44 131 313 2069
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Cost: £-££
Shandon Snooker & Pool is serious about its pool and snooker tables—they’ve got plenty, and they’re all top-notch quality. They welcome all skill levels, from those who might need a bit more practice to pot a ball to real sharpshooters.
Besides pool and snooker, they’ve dipped their toes into the darts scene, which adds a more nice touch. For those moments when you need a break from all the game, there’s a cosy bar area that serves up a good selection of drinks to keep you hydrated.
The vibe here is casual and friendly, making Shandon Snooker & Pool a great spot for a relaxed evening out with friends or even solo if you’re in the mood to meet new people.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to browse Shandon’s online and on-site shop, offering a treasure trove of billiards equipment. Whether you’re in need of a new cue, chalk, or fancy upgrading your entire game set, their extensive selection caters to all levels.
The Manse Club
Media credit: martin.peebles
Website: http://www.themanseclub.co.uk/
Address: 62-68 Manse Rd.
Contact details: +44 131 334 1729
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9:30 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 6 PM
Cost: £-££
Okay, if you haven’t been to The Manse Club, you’re missing out. This place isn’t fancy, but what it lacks in frills, it makes up for in character and a hearty welcome.
It’s got a few pool tables that are always well-maintained, making it a favourite local haunt for casual games and friendly matches. Beyond the pool, they also have a lounge bar and a beer garden.
The food and drinks here are straightforward, honest pub fare—nothing that tries too hard, but everything delicious. Plus, the prices are super reasonable, which means more rounds for everyone, eh?
Pro tip: While The Manse Club is a members’ spot, weaving its charm mostly among locals, they’ve got this nifty option for folks not ready to dive all in: a daily membership fee.
This little nugget means you can still enjoy all the perks of being a part of the club without having to commit long-term.
The Oz Bar
Website: https://www.instagram.com/theozbar/?hl=en
Address: 33 Candlemaker Row
Contact details: +44 131 259 6295
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 1 PM to 1 AM
Cost: £-££
The Oz Bar is an Aussie-themed bar, and it’s as fun as it sounds. They’ve got a couple of pool tables that are perfect for a friendly game among friends.
And, true to the Aussie theme, there’s a laid-back, no-worries atmosphere that makes you feel chilled out the moment you step in. They’ve got Aussie beers and some classic Australian bites that are great to try.
Expect to come across locals, students, and travellers all mingle together here. And if pool’s not your thing, they’ve got plenty of screens to catch whatever sport is on, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Pro tip: If you’re the type who likes to scroll through a place’s social media for deals, events, or what’s on the menu, here’s a heads up: The Oz Bar is not all that active online.
So, for the most current information on specials, menu updates, or prices, your best bet is to pop in directly.
Bar 50
Website: https://pugmanmedia.co.uk/pugman-links/bar-50/
Address: 50 Blackfriars St.
Contact details: +44 113 526 6372
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: £-££
Bar 50 has these quality pool tables that are a real pleasure to play on—not too crowded, just the right vibe for a game or two with your pals.
Furthermore, they serve up some mean burgers, pizza, and pie of the day that’ll have you coming back for more, and their drink selection is nothing to sneeze at either. From craft beers to classic cocktails, there’s something for everyone.
Literally, there’s so much going on here, be it playing with the pool, having karaoke, or listening to some live music; there’s no dull moment at all. Plus, they have a heated outdoor beer garden where you can take a break with beer after a few rounds of pool.
Pro tip: If you find yourself here often, ask about their loyalty card. You can rack up points for some of the food and drink, which, honestly, is a pretty sweet deal.
Eastside
Website: http://www.eastsideedinburgh.co.uk/
Address: 51a George St.
Contact details: +44 131 226 2275
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 PM to 3 AM
Cost: £-££
Eastside is pretty much the go-to for a night out if you fancy a mix of pool, great music, and an energetic crowd. They’ve got a few pool tables here that are always in top-notch condition, so you won’t be battling with a wonky cue or anything.
Their drink menu is quite the highlight, boasting an extensive range of spirits, cocktails, and craft beers.
Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye on their socials for DJ nights or special events. They sometimes fly under the radar but are totally worth checking out for a more amped-up pool bar experience.
