Café Royal Circle Bar

The Café Royal Circle Bar at 19 West Register Street is one of Edinburgh's best-known Victorian pubs, set just off Princes Street and a short walk from Waverley station in Scotland's capital. Its defining feature is a central island bar beneath a high ceiling, surrounded by listed ceramic portraits of inventors and scientists and by stained glass. The room is grand and historic, and it is often described as one of the most beautiful pub interiors in the city, which makes it popular with visitors as well as locals.

The crowd is a blend of office workers, shoppers, theatregoers and tourists, and the age range is broad, from young adults to older regulars. The atmosphere is relaxed and civilised rather than rowdy: this is a place for a quiet drink or lunch away from the busier Royal Mile, not a venue for dancing. There is no dress code, though most guests dress casually or smart-casual. Music is incidental, and conversation is the main background sound.

The drinks programme centres on cask ales, bottled and draught beers and a selection of whiskies. A pint of beer generally costs about £5.50 to £7.50 (roughly $7 to $10), and a dram of whisky starts from about £5 (about $7). The pub also serves pub food, including traditional Scottish dishes, so it works as a lunch or early evening meal stop as well as a late drink. Opening is typically from midday until about 11pm or midnight, though it is wise to check hours before visiting because they can vary by day and season.

There is no cover charge. Reservations are generally not required for drinks, although it can be sensible to ask about tables for larger groups or for meals. The busiest times are Friday and Saturday evenings and pre-theatre periods, when the island bar is crowded; weekday afternoons and early evenings are calmer and make it easier to take in the interior. Its location near Princes Street, the Playhouse and the main rail and tram links makes it a convenient first or last stop in a New Town evening.