Paradise Palms

Paradise Palms is a retro-themed bar and club at 41 Lothian Street in Edinburgh's Southside, Scotland, close to the University of Edinburgh campus. It is known for cheap drinks and party nights, and it attracts a strong student crowd, with ID routinely checked at the door. The decor and theming lean towards a nostalgic, playful look, and the venue is aimed at groups of friends looking for an easygoing night out rather than a specialist music experience.

The crowd is mostly students and young adults in their late teens to twenties, and the atmosphere is a student party: loud, social and informal. There is no strict dress code, and casual clothes or going-out outfits are both common. Smart trainers and jeans are generally acceptable, though door staff may refuse entry to anyone who appears very intoxicated. Visitors who are older than the typical crowd should expect a youthful, busy environment, particularly at weekends and during the university term.

The music is pop, party hits and retro tracks, played to keep the dancefloor busy. The drinks programme is built around value: beers, spirits with mixers, shots and simple cocktails at student-friendly prices rather than craft or specialist offerings. The venue typically opens in the evening and runs until about 3am on weekends, though visitors should check current hours, as these can vary by day and by term.

Entry varies by night. On club nights it is typically about £3 to £8 (roughly $4 to $11), and some earlier or quieter nights may be free. Reservations are not normally part of the model, although groups sometimes arrange tables for birthdays or events by contacting the venue in advance. Queues can form at the door on Friday and Saturday nights, and arriving early or in smaller groups is usually the quickest way in. Lothian Street is near Bristo Square, Greyfriars and the Cowgate, so the venue is easy to combine with other Old Town and Southside bars, and it is a short walk from the central Old Town accommodation.