5 Best Clubs in Edinburgh
Edinburgh or “Auld Reekie” evokes a mix of cosmopolitan and historic town vibe as shown in its unusual cityscape composed of modern and centuries-old buildings. This vibrant mix plus its cultural heritage and spectacular festivals makes it an attractive destination to visit. One of its biggest crowd-drawer is the Edinburgh Festival held every August, which is said to be the most spectacular arts-related festival in the world.
Even during regular days, the city comes alive after dark with a smorgasbord of exciting entertainment options, including some of the best clubs this side of the United Kingdom. Below are just five of the best clubs in the city.
You can find many listings for nights at these clubs and many more exciting things to do in Edinburgh on the Edinburgh classifieds site gumtree.co.uk/edinburgh as well as local listings magazines.
Departure Lounge
Vibrant club set at The Caves in Old Town, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Edinburgh. Probably the most unusual club in the city, the Departure Lounge is situated in one of The Caves’ subterranean rooms. Playlist includes dance-friendly music from a variety of global musical forms and influences, including hip hop and jazz infused with African or Caribbean beats. Monthly club events are posted at the Departure Lounge’s website.
The Egg at the Wee Red Bar
The best option if working on a limited budget. Located in Lauriston Place at the Edinburgh College of Art, the Wee Red Bar is the favorite hangout of the younger crowd whose musical preferences range from indie, reggae, electronic, and even alt country. The atmosphere is very artsy and hip yet drinks are affordable. Catch the Egg, a weekly club event exclusive for students and members. Application for membership is absolutely free and can be done online.
Liquid Room
Another amazing subterranean venue in the city, the Liquid Room is accessible via Victoria Street. Liquid room hosts live performances and club events all days of the week. EVOL, an Edinburgh club institution, is an indie and alternative event that happens once a week at Liquid Room. Club events Musika, Indigo, Bump, and Madchester are also held at the venue.
Devil Disco at the Bongo
Regular Devil Disco DJs spin new and classic dance music covering new wave, 80’s house, electronic, funk, soul, and other genres. Devil Disco is a once a month clubbing experience at the Bongo, one of Edinburgh’s exciting arts venue. Dubbed as the dark side of disco, club goers are encouraged to let everything hang loose while partying at the Bongo.
Cabaret Voltaire
A popular place for locals, Cabaret Voltaire or Cab Vol eschews the usual club scene by adopting a more underground and non-mainstream atmosphere. Situated right in the heart of Old Town at the Cowgate District, Cabaret Voltaire thrives in its cave-like surroundings, dark and moody lighting, cozier dance floors, and performances by local alternative bands and artists.