Cheapest Edinburgh Pints Alert: Locals Spill 12 Best-Kept Secrets

Finding a cheap pint in one of the UK’s most popular tourist cities can be a daunting task, but Edinburgh locals have stepped in to save the day. In an effort to keep their city's wallet-friendly beer spots on the down-low no more, we asked the people who know the city best – the locals – to weigh in on where to find the cheapest pints in Edinburgh. And boy, did they deliver. From the historic Royal Mile to the trendy pubs of the Cowgate, we've compiled the ultimate list of cheap Edinburgh pints.

After scouring through countless recommendations and comments, we've narrowed it down to the top 12 cheapest pubs for pints in Edinburgh – as told by the locals themselves. So the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Auld Reekie in search of a thrifty tipple, keep this list handy.

When it comes to finding the best Edinburgh pubs for a cheap pint, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that many of the locals' top picks are in or near the city centre. One of the first recommendations to pop up was Malones Bar – a lively pub nestled in the heart of George Street that serves an impressive selection of beers starting from as little as £3.45.

Located just a short stroll from Edinburgh Waverley train station, Malones boasts an enviable beer garden perfect for sipping on a pint during the warmer months. Keen to stretch your beer budget even further? Why not take advantage of their daily 'happy hour', where £2 pints and £1.50 bottles are on offer for a limited time only.

Another noteworthy mention is the Canons' Gait Bar, which can be found along Canongate within the historic Royal Mile. With an inside patio area that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh city life, Canons' Gait is an excellent choice for those after a local atmosphere and pocket-friendly drinks – the pints here start at around £3.70.

Just a short walk away lies The World's End, an equally wallet-friendly pub that deserves a spot on your radar when it comes to tracking down the cheapest pints in Edinburgh. On top of offering competitively priced beer (from £3.60), patrons can enjoy an ever-changing selection of live music within the pub itself or its outdoor seating area.