The Queens Arms - Edinburgh - Pub Review

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, The Queens Arms is a charming underground tavern renowned for its cosy, library-themed interior and commitment to quality ales and hearty pub fare. Tucked “below the cobbles of Frederick Street", it truly is a hidden gem. The brick-lined, candlelit atmosphere and rows of bookshelves give the space an old-school character, almost like stepping into a Victorian gentleman’s club or a comfortable living room. This is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering everything from well-kept cask ales and craft beers to generous plates of Scottish comfort food. In many ways, it feels like a traditional new town pub brought vividly to life – welcoming patrons for casual after-work pints, weekend family meals or spirited match-night gatherings.

Facilities & Entertainment

• Basement setting: Access is down a flight of stairs, creating an intimate underground ambiance. The interior is richly decorated with dark wood, leather chesterfields, and shelves of real books (not just wallpaper props). Antique-style lighting and even chandeliers made from wine glasses add quirky warmth to the pub’s décor.

• No parking: As with most central Edinburgh pubs, there is no dedicated parking at The Queens Arms. Guests typically arrive on foot, via taxi or on public transport. (Edinburgh Waverley station is only a few minutes’ walk away.)

• Sports on screen: This is very much a sports-friendly bar. Five high-definition TVs around the pub show the biggest matches live – including Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Premier Sports coverage of football, rugby, tennis, and more. The venue even serves as an official away-match pub for Edinburgh Rugby, so expect a lively crowd on game days. With so many screens, the Queens Arms truly ensures you won’t miss a moment of the action.

• Pub quiz: Every Sunday night there’s a spirited pub quiz (typically from 8pm) that draws local teams and families looking for friendly competition. This regular quiz night adds to the community feel.

• Loyalty & promotions: The pub participates in the Crave Signature loyalty programme, which guests mention when redeeming deals (for example, a 50% off promotion on food or complimentary drinks for graduates). Seasonal promotions are also announced on their social pages, especially around major events.

• Dog & family friendly: Dogs are welcome at The Queen's Arms – staff often find a quiet booth or corner so well-behaved pets can join their owners. The pub provides dog bowls and even moves patrons to more dog-friendly seats on request. Families are also catered for: the restaurant section has high chairs and baby-changing facilities, and children under 18 are welcome (though only in the dining area and not after 9pm). A casual, friendly atmosphere means parents can relax while the little ones enjoy a kids’ menu with classic options.

• Seating areas: The venue is divided into a bar side and a restaurant side. The bar area (up front near the taps) is the hub for drinks and sports-watching – long wooden tables, bench seating and chairs set a convivial scene. Off to the side or towards the rear, the restaurant area features cosier booth seating and fixed tables for dining. Some booths even have little doors that can be closed for privacy, a novel touch guests love. This layout means you can choose a lively spot by the bar or a quieter nook for a meal.

• Accessibility: As a basement pub, The Queens Arms has no lift – all spaces are reached by stairs. This unfortunately means it isn’t wheelchair-accessible. Once inside, however, the ground floor is open-plan. The restrooms are also downstairs (near the bar). Staff are accustomed to helping patrons, though, and will happily bring drinks to tables if navigating through crowds is a concern. Overall, aside from the steps, the pub is well-maintained and accommodating within its historic constraints.

Food on Offer

The kitchen at The Queen's Arms specialises in hearty, home-style cooking made from high-quality Scottish ingredients. The menu is broad and appealing – think classic pub staples done very well. Expect favourites such as fish and chips (beer-battered North Sea haddock with hand-cut chips and mushy peas), steak pie or beef shin pie (warm, glossy gravy under flaky pastry), grilled Scottish salmon or pan-roasted fish dishes, and a juicy, smoky bacon chop with eggs. One reviewer even declared their chicken main “the best dish I’ve had in some time” – all dishes get praise for their generous portions and comforting flavours.

Several plates really stand out as customer favourites:

• Steak Pie (or Pie of the Day): A top pick for many. The Queen's Arms’ pies are proper pub style – golden pastry top and bottom filled with tender beef and rich gravy, served with creamy mashed potatoes, seasonal veg and gravy. It’s often called out as the star dish, with diners noting it’s what they “remember” from the meal.

• Sunday Roast: The pub is famous for its Sunday roast, which can be ordered as an individual or even a sharing platter. They use top-quality Scottish beef (with a vegetarian nut roast as an alternative) and pile on traditional trimmings: roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables and a house-made gravy. It’s so popular that it frequently sells out, so booking ahead is wise.

• Haggis, Neeps & Tatties: A Scottish classic done exceptionally well here. The pub serves both a mini portion and a full "muckle" size – either way you get creamy mashed neeps (turnips), tatty (potatoes) and haggis, all dressed with a whisky-infused peppercorn sauce. Many regulars say it’s a go-to, especially around Burns Night, as it’s a comforting, proudly Scottish dish on the menu.

• Queens Arms Burgers: There are a few burger options. The Queen's Bacon Cheeseburger comes with smoked cheddar, bacon and sauce (served with chips). For vegetarians/vegans, the Royal Allotment Burger is a hit – a plant-based patty with vegan cheddar and sriracha mayo. These pub burgers are hearty and well-seasoned (and even earned praise from omnivores in reviews).

• Fish & Chips: Indeed a menu staple. The piece of haddock is very large – one reviewer called it a “whale-sized” fillet, so it definitely lives up to being a very filling meal. It’s served with classic sides and noted for its crisp batter and perfectly cooked fish.

• Other mains: The menu also offers dishes like pan-roasted chicken supreme with wild mushrooms and jus, fillet of hake in shellfish broth, and a sugar-pit bacon chop with pineapple and spiced mustard. A steak & chips (8oz rump with peppercorn sauce) is available too for the carnivores. In short, there’s a filling mane for every preference.

• Light bites & lunch: During weekdays (12–5pm), there’s a lighter lunch menu. Options include a haggis on toast topped with a fried egg, a hearty steak sandwich, plus simpler toasted sandwiches and a hash brown butty. These are ideal for a quick meal or lunch break and share the same generous spirit (for example, the haggis toastie is on sourdough with pickles and onion rings, priced at £12).

Vegetarians and vegans will find several thoughtful choices: fresh salads, soups and veggie twist dishes. For example, the Whipped Feta & Chicory Salad (with beetroot and honey-mustard dressing) or the vegan burger mentioned above. The pub even clearly marks gluten-free and vegan options on the menu. And if you have dietary needs, the kitchen is usually accommodating (they note that they can adapt some dishes upon request).

For dessert, don’t skip the classics. Sticky toffee pudding, a chocolate brownie with cherry sorbet, or a creamy cheesecake often rounds off a meal. These sweets, alongside a hot coffee or after-dinner drink, make for a satisfying finish.

The food at The Queen's Arms is straightforward British pub cooking executed with care. Nothing is overly fancy, but everything is flavourful and plentiful – you really won’t leave hungry. Indeed, reviewers note that even when a dish like fish & chips has a quirky side (minted peas or a special garnish), the core of each meal is exactly what you expect – full of substance and well-cooked. Pricing is in line with a central Edinburgh pub: mains generally £15–£26, and Sunday roasts around the high end of that. Considering the high-quality ingredients and ample portions, the value is seen as fair.

Beers on Tap

The Queen's Arms takes its beer as seriously as its food. They feature a range of well-kept ales and lagers, with an emphasis on Scottish-brewed and independent beers. On tap you’ll always find Cold Town Brewery brews (an Edinburgh microbrewery) – the menu typically lists Cold Town Lager and Cold Town Baltic IPA. During our visit the chalkboard even mentioned a “Now Pouring” selection of seasonal Cold Town specials. Beyond those, the standard tap line-up includes a couple of rotating guest taps showcasing local craft brewers. Patrons might find anything from a hoppy IPA from a Scottish microbrewery to a seasonal amber ale on cask. Bartenders are happy to recommend and pour samples if you’re unsure which to choose. In short, there is often “something new to try” each time.

In addition to ales, the bar stocks some well-known names. Draught options typically include Guinness and even Italian pale lager (Birra Moretti) as well as a few ciders (Inch’s or Old Mout fruit ciders). Bottled beer choices cover global lagers (Peroni, Corona) and gluten-free beers, plus more craft bottles if you prefer to sit back with something different. In all, you won’t be short of beer choices – The Queen's Arms clearly prides itself on a generous beer list.

Importantly, the ales here are properly cared for. The cask beers (hand-pulled from the barrels) are noted to taste fresh, and the staff do daily line cleaning. Pub-watchers often compliment this attention, since an improperly stored pint can ruin a visit. Here, though, each pint is typically reported as crisp and correctly conditioned.

If beer isn’t your thing, fear not: the bar also offers a broad range of other drinks. There’s an extensive whisky selection (over 50 malt whiskies!), a full wine list, and a menu of classic cocktails and signature drinks. The pub’s drinks menu even has its own creative cocktails section. (Interesting touches like cocktails served in teapots add to the bar’s quirky charm.) Soft drinks, spirits and non-alcoholic beers are available as well. But for many visitors, it’s the rotating craft beer and cask ale lineup that steals the show, underscoring the pub’s dedication to a great pint.

Price Range & Value

In terms of pricing, The Queens Arms sits in the mid-range for central Edinburgh – roughly one pint for £5–£7 and main meals from about £15 up to £26 (the steak and sharing dishes are on the higher end). Sunday roast dinners and larger format shares can run higher (for example, a two-person roast sharing platter is around £26). Given the prime New Town location and high-quality offerings, most patrons consider it a fair deal.

Value is often pointed out: for what you get, customers feel satisfied. The portions are notably large and filling. Fresh ingredients and well-executed cooking mean that the price reflects genuine quality. Reviewers often mention being thankful for the hearty serving size – “you will not leave here hungry” is a common refrain. A pint of the local ale is on par with other city pubs'. The lack of gimmicks or unnecessary extras also helps keep things honest; there is no automatic service charge on bar orders, and tipping is appreciated but discretionary.

For a central Edinburgh spot in the New Town, it’s not the cheapest pint in town (one could find slightly lower prices in outer suburbs), but it’s competitive with other indie pubs around Princes Street. Overall, most visitors rate the experience as good value: you pay standard pub prices and get above-average craft beer and homemade pub food in return.

Customer Service

One of the Queen's Arms’ strengths is its warm, friendly service. The staff earn glowing remarks for their welcoming attitude and efficiency. Many locals have commented that the team - from bartenders to kitchen staff - makes the pub feel like a home away from home. They remember regulars by name, chat about the latest football score or the current craft beer on tap, and genuinely enjoy helping guests. On a busy night, you’ll still find staff who are attentive and helpful rather than rushed.

In my own experience and many reviews, the service strikes a nice balance: it’s personal and unpretentious. The bartenders are knowledgeable about the beer and whisky list, ready to offer a suggestion if you’re indecisive. They refill your pint promptly and clear empty glasses, even at peak times. On a recent visit, I noticed the servers quickly coordinated food orders in a crowded dining rush, which kept waiting times reasonable. Even when a large birthday party took up some tables, the team handled it with aplomb and made sure everyone felt looked after.

It’s worth noting that during extremely busy spells (pre-match build-up or a sold-out quiz night), waits can be a bit longer – again, nothing unusual for a packed pub. But in general, feedback emphasises how the staff’s efficiency and friendliness make the experience positive. Guests often highlight one or two team members by name in reviews, praising the personal touch. In short, you’re likely to be greeted with a smile and advice on the best pint for you and to be served in good time no matter how hectic the evening gets.

For special needs, The Queen's Arms is accommodating. If you need a quieter table, space for a big group, or a spot for your dog, just let them know when booking. They’ll do their best to reserve an appropriate booth or area. Dietary requests (gluten-free, vegan swaps, etc.) are also handled without fuss. On occasions like university graduation days or festive periods, the pub runs promotions (such as a free glass of bubbly for graduates) that staff happily apply.

Customer service here is a strong suit. Regulars describe the team as “friendly, welcoming and professional”, and even first-time diners often become return customers thanks to the warm treatment. It’s easy to see why people feel like this is a local pub run by people who care about their patrons.

Events & Special Nights

The Queen's Arms isn’t just a place for food and drink – it also hosts a variety of events that keep the calendar lively. Sports play a big role: as noted, they proudly screen all the major live matches across multiple HD TVs. Whether it’s Champions League football, a Six Nations rugby match or a Formula 1 race, fans will gather here to catch every moment. Because of this, certain evenings (like Edinburgh Rugby match days or big tournament matches) become electric, with competitive banter and collective cheers in full swing.

Beyond casual viewing, the pub supports official events. It is an Edinburgh Rugby sponsor bar, often advertising game fixtures and rugby promotions. There’s even a contract as the team’s “away match hub”, meaning you’ll sometimes see the pub decked out in rugby flags on game days. In winter months, supporters of the Scotland football team or Six Nations rugby can expect match-watch parties here.

Weekly events include the Sunday Pub Quiz (hosted in the bar area around 8pm). It’s a popular social night for trivia buffs and families alike. Quiz categories range from general knowledge to pop culture, and it’s free to enter, with prize giveaways. This regular event gives another reason for locals to come back each week.

From time to time, the Queen's Arms runs special themed events. For example, at Burns Night (January 25th), they’ve been known to offer a Scottish menu twist with extended haggis specials and whisky promotions. Around other holidays (Halloween, Christmas, etc.), you may find decorated spaces or seasonal cocktails. They also host casual gatherings – such as “Graduation Night” with free champagne for graduates dining there – capitalising on local university celebrations. In the summer, although the pub itself has no rooftop, they sometimes bring out extra tables in front on Frederick Street or open up a small rear courtyard if the weather allows (a pleasant escape in sunny weather).

Social media and mailing-list subscribers will catch announcements of any one-off parties or live entertainment (for instance, occasional acoustic music nights or whisky tastings). Though live music isn’t a regular feature, the pub’s ambience often feels festive thanks to these periodic events.

One thing to note: despite being event-friendly, The Queen's Arms is not a nightclub. There are no DJs or dance floors; the entertainment is more about crowd-based pub fun. On big sports or quiz nights, it’s lively (you might hear some friendly heckling or theme music), but on an average Tuesday or Wednesday, the vibe is simply relaxed and chatty. Thus, it caters both to those seeking a bit of pub buzz and those just after a quiet pint.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Stepping inside The Queen's Arms, you’re enveloped by a warm, convivial atmosphere. The dark wood panelling, leather armchairs and low lighting give the interior an inviting, old-world feel. In one corner there are tufted leather chesterfield sofas with antique-style lamps, creating little “snug” seating areas perfect for relaxed conversation. Tall bookshelves crammed with novels and encyclopedias line the walls, fitting the “book nook pub” aesthetic. Above, glass-and-brass chandeliers fashioned from inverted wine glasses twinkle softly, and clusters of empty wine bottles are even embedded in parts of the ceiling as décor. The overall effect is cosy and a bit whimsical – the kind of place where you immediately feel you’ve entered someone’s well-loved private club.

Despite all these vintage touches, it never feels dusty or fussy. The general crowd is diverse and friendly. At a table you might find local office workers unwinding after work, a group of friends gathering for a night out, or a family sharing a Sunday roast. Often there’s a buzz of conversation – a mix of Edinburgh locals, theatre and sports fans, and curious tourists who’ve heard about the pub’s reputation. Music, when played, is usually gentle background tunes (jazz or acoustic pop), but most of the soundscape is the hum of happy chatter or the commentary from the sports screens. Even when the bar fills up, it maintains a warm buzz rather than an oppressive roar. One frequent guest noted the pub becomes a kind of “family living room” feeling, and that sense of community comes through each evening.

Seating options vary: there are standard wooden tables and stools by the bar, banquettes along the walls, and those famous cosy booths (some even with doors) for a more private meal. These booths, in particular, are a unique feature and often a sought-after spot – families or couples sometimes wait until one frees up. If the bar area is crowded, you can often find a slightly quieter corner toward the back or by the bookcase. That said, on peak nights (Friday and Saturday evenings, or right before big matches), the pub does get packed. In those cases the fireplace nook and benches fill up, so it’s wise to arrive a bit early to claim a seat. Still, part of The Queen's Arms’ charm is its intimate scale; even with 100 or so people inside, it feels snug rather than overwhelming.

In terms of accessibility, some cautions apply. The entrance is a short set of stairs from street level, which may challenge anyone in a wheelchair or with mobility issues. Once downstairs, however, the main bar/restaurant space is on one level (no more steps inside). The toilets are also down a small corridor. The pub website does note its limitations for disabled access, as do patrons. If stairs are a concern, visitors should be aware of this ahead of time (and staff will do their best to assist if needed).

On the plus side, the pub welcomes dogs and children. Dogs are often seen curled at their owners’ feet; the staff will even move tables so a friendly pup has a comfortable spot. Families appreciate that there’s a partitioned restaurant area where parents with small children can enjoy their meal without feeling in the way of the louder bar crowd. After 9pm, only adults are allowed (as per local licensing), so evening service is exclusively adult-centric. In summer, the pub opens its front hatch on Frederick Street, letting some daylight in and giving an “outdoor” feel, though seating on the sidewalk is extremely limited.

The ambience is warm, cosy and buzzing – especially popular with those seeking the authentic Edinburgh pub vibe. It’s a place where you might overhear lively debates over a rugby match at one table and friendly banter about books or work at another. The historic decor and friendly chatter together create a genuinely welcoming environment for virtually any kind of guest.

Location & Nearby Attractions

The Queen's Arms enjoys a prime New Town address at 49 Frederick Street – a quiet side street just north of Princess Street. Its location couldn’t be more convenient. Edinburgh Waverley (the main train station) is only about a 3-minute walk downhill, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Scotland. Likewise, St Andrew Square and Princes Street – lined with buses and trams – are virtually around the corner. Taxis and Ubers can drop you almost at the door, though the short walk from nearby stops is very popular on good days.

Being centrally situated, the pub is surrounded by plenty of attractions. Within a two-minute stroll you’ll hit Princes Street Gardens, with its views of Edinburgh Castle looming overhead. Turn towards the east and you can climb Calton Hill for panoramic cityscapes. George Street, a major shopping thoroughfare with boutiques and cafés, is just a block away – great for pre- or post-drink strolling. Nearby Charlotte Square offers grand Georgian architecture, and if you walk a few blocks north, you’ll find Stockbridge with its farmers’ market and independent shops. Even the cultural highlights are accessible: the Scottish National Gallery and the Writer’s Museum are a 5-10 minute walk through the New Town.

For dining and nightlife, this part of Edinburgh is buzzing too. Across the street is a chain coffee shop and a popular bistro (The Place), plus on George Street you’ll find upscale restaurants and cocktail bars. A short wander takes you to the myriad pubs of Rose Street or the historic Circus Lane eateries. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, the Assembly Rooms (festival hub) and dozens of Fringe venues are within easy reach during festival season. In winter, the central location means you’re a stone’s throw from any Christmas market stalls in Princes Street.

Travel-wise, local buses cruise along Princes and Queen Streets, linking to all corners of the city and suburbs. Parking in New Town is scarce – most surrounding streets are permit or pay-by-phone zones, so visitors often opt for nearby paid car parks or simply use public transit. Cycling is a viable option too, with bike racks on Rose Street and Queen Street nearby.

The Queen's Arms sits at a crossroads of convenience and character. It’s enveloped by both the historic grandeur of Edinburgh’s Georgian New Town and the modern hustle of the city centre. Whether you’re staying at a city centre hotel, shopping in the shops, or on a day trip through the city, the pub is an easy and worthwhile detour.

Overall Impression

The Queen's Arms strikes a remarkable balance between tradition and trend. It may have opened in 2010, but it feels like a pub with deep roots – thanks to its vintage décor, classic menu and convivial spirit. Here you get the warmth of a genuine local boozer combined with all the amenities that modern patrons expect (extensive beer choices, Wi-Fi, sports coverage, etc.). The space is attractively decorated and thoughtfully laid out, creating an ambience that guests describe as both “cosy” and “cavernous”.

Some minor quibbles: on very busy nights it can be tough to find a seat unless you reserve, and the basement location means there’s no natural light. Also, if you’re avoiding sports or trivia, the numerous TVs can be a bit intrusive (one review jokingly noted there were “maybe one too many" screens on transfer deadline day). Accessibility is limited by the stairs, so it’s not a fit for everyone. However, these are relatively small trade-offs considering how much the pub gets right. The friendly service and sense of community genuinely set it apart from a generic chain.

Patrons consistently highlight the high points: a roaring fireplace on winter evenings, expert pours of local beer, and meals that taste like home cooking. Many leave satisfied not only by a full stomach but also by having spent time in a pub that feels lived-in and authentic. Edinburgh has no shortage of fine bars and restaurants, but The Queens Arms offers a unique package: history and character underground, combined with modern comforts above. It is frequently cited as one of the city’s best pub experiences (with TripAdvisor ratings around 4.3/5), and for good reason.

All told, The Queen's Arms is a neighbourhood treasure worth seeking out. Whether you’re craving one of Edinburgh’s “best Sunday roasts”, a well-kept pint with friends, or a cosy spot to watch the big game, this Frederick Street pub delivers. It’s authentic without pretence, with just the right mix of buzz and comfort. In the end, many visitors (like myself) leave feeling pleasantly surprised that in the heart of the New Town there lies such a genuine, heartwarming pub.