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4.3 (995 reviews)
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4.3
Restaurantji Rating
(995 review)
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Mather's Bar

Mather’s Bar: A Classic Edinburgh Pub with Timeless Appeal

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh at 1 Queensferry St, Scotland, Mather’s Bar stands as a beacon of traditional Scottish hospitality. With its high ceilings, wooden floors, and a welcoming atmosphere, this pub has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a fan of quality beers, a relaxed conversation, or live sports, Mather’s Bar offers an experience that blends history with modern comfort.

The Authentic Atmosphere That Defines Mather’s Bar

From the moment you step inside Mather’s Bar, you are greeted with an old-world charm that makes it stand out among Edinburgh’s many pubs. The interior has been tastefully maintained, preserving its vintage appeal while incorporating subtle modern upgrades. Comfortable banquette seating, well-placed lighting, and an inviting layout create an ambiance where people of all ages feel welcome.

Unlike many modern bars that prioritize loud music over conversation, Mather’s Bar remains true to its roots—a place where discussions flow freely, and customers feel at home. While a music system has been introduced, the focus remains on genuine human connection, making it a rare gem in today’s fast-paced world.

A Selection of Quality Beers, Ciders, and Spirits

One of the key reasons patrons keep returning to Mather’s Bar is its impressive selection of drinks. Beer lovers will appreciate the house pale ale, known for its smooth taste and rich character. The Magners cider on tap is a welcome find for those who prefer a crisp, refreshing pint over the standard Strongbow options found elsewhere.

Beyond beer and cider, the spirits selection is excellent, offering a range of Scottish whiskies and international liquors. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual pint or a more refined dram, Mather’s Bar ensures that every drink is served with quality and care.

A Pub That Celebrates Edinburgh’s Rich Social Culture

The charm of Mather’s Bar isn’t just in its aesthetics or drinks—it’s in the people who gather here. Regulars include a mix of longtime patrons and new visitors, all drawn in by the welcoming environment. During the daytime, the bar attracts a loyal crowd of older customers who enjoy the respectful and friendly service. As the evening unfolds, younger groups, professionals, and sports enthusiasts create a lively yet relaxed setting.

Unlike rowdy nightclubs, Mather’s Bar offers a space where customers can enjoy a lively chat without distractions. Whether you’re catching up with an old friend or making new ones, the sense of community here is undeniable.

Sports, Drinks, and Good Company at Mather’s Bar

For sports fans, Mather’s Bar is an ideal spot to enjoy live football, rugby, and other major sporting events. The multiple TVs strategically placed throughout the venue ensure that you won’t miss a moment of the action. Whether it’s a thrilling Scottish Premiership match or a tense Six Nations rugby game, you can experience the excitement in a lively yet comfortable setting.

Pairing a great game with an affordable pint—priced competitively at just £3.90 per pint—is what makes Mather’s Bar stand out. While some bars in central Edinburgh overcharge, this pub remains committed to providing great value without compromising on quality.

Why Mather’s Bar Remains an Edinburgh Staple

In a city filled with evolving nightlife trends, Mather’s Bar continues to stand tall as a timeless establishment. It embodies everything that makes a great pub—quality drinks, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that respects tradition while embracing the present.

Whether you’re a local seeking a reliable spot for a quiet drink or a traveler looking for an authentic Scottish pub experience, Mather’s Bar is a must-visit. With its rich history, unbeatable ambiance, and dedication to quality, this one-room public bar remains a shining example of Edinburgh’s enduring pub culture.

Mather's Bar Photos

Mather's Bar Reviews (995)

NNInglis
NNInglis
Restaurantji Rating

I drink cider, but most bars only sell Strongbow, and I don't like it. In fact, I'd go as far as to say I hate it. My local has been shut for months, so I've had to hunt around for a decent pint of cider. A friend of mine was in here and spotted the Magners tap, so I've been coming in whenever I'm passing by on the way home. A great pint, and very competitive prices considering the locality. Just £3.90 a pint. Brilliant.less

mark a
mark a
Restaurantji Rating

I last left a review of Mathers in 2017 when it was badly in need of some TLC. I am happy to report things have improved! Banquette seating has been sympathetically recovered and the ceiling lights are now much more in keeping with the place. All good improvements. Mathers is often, disingenuously in my opinion, referred to as an 'old man's pub' but it's so much more than that if given a chance. Sure there are a lot of older clientele during the day but they come here because they are treated with respect and kindness by the staff. Mathers is all about conversation. I spent a lovely afternoon chatting to a guy the same age as me who I'd never met. We were clearly from very different backgrounds but that didn't matter and that's the thing about Mathers- it's a pub for all except pissed idiots which you won't find here. Sadly they have added a music system which, to me, adds nothing to the atmosphere and just gets in the way of conversation. It could also do with a good dust in places. Beer selection was good I especially liked their house pale ale. Spirits selection excellent. Sadly the return fonts have gone replaced by characterless hand pulls but this has happened in many Edinburgh pubs, a pity. The staff were great and the kindness on display to their older regulars was heart warming. Mathers may have seen its heyday many moons ago but it is still a bustling, lively pub to have a few pints. It remains the finest example of a one room public bar in Edinburgh perhaps the whole of Scotland. less

travelbaggies
travelbaggies
Restaurantji Rating

Been returning here for years. A beautiful traditional bar, high ceilings, wooden floors and TVs at every angle for the football, rugby and other sports. A friendly crowd, and great staff.less

SimonTheGood
SimonTheGood
Restaurantji Rating

Robert and Dorothy are wonderful hosts. A decent Scotch selection and a relaxed environment. A nice alternative to the Thistle St publess

hamish a
hamish a
Restaurantji Rating

Horrible customer service. I went in the other night, ordered a first drink of the evening, was a little tired but not drunk or anything like that, got refused service for no explainable or apparent reason, I clearly wasn’t in any way drunk. Came back in to just talk to my friends, wasn’t intending on trying to order any more drinks. Was rudely told I needed to leave immediately, I wasn’t drunk, I didn’t do anything wrong, I wasn’t bothering anyone. The staff just wanted to have a go at me. Wont be coming back, very poor show.less

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Opening times

Monday 11AM-11PM
Tuesday 11AM-11PM
Wednesday 11AM-11PM
Thursday 11AM-9PM
Friday 11AM-9PM
Saturday 11AM-9PM
Sunday 11AM-9PM

Mather's Bar

+44 131 225 3549

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