The Caley Picture House - JD Wetherspoon
Cocktail Bar | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
The cocktail bar "The Caley Picture House - JD Wetherspoon" in Edinburgh, Scotland, is an exceptional pub housed in a historic building that is part of the well-known British Wetherspoon chain. Originally opened as the "Caley Picture House" on January 1, 1923, the building was a cinema in Art Deco style designed by architects J.S. Richardson and J.R. McKay. Originally seating 900 people, it was expanded in 1928 by architect James McKissack to accommodate the new "talkies" – films with sound – increasing its capacity to 1,900 seats. The cinema was the first in Edinburgh to introduce CinemaScope, screening the film "The Robe" starring Richard Burton in 1954. After its closure in 1984, it was converted into a nightclub called "Caley Palais" in 1986, later known as "Century 2000" and "Revolution." In the 1970s and 80s, it also served as a music venue, hosting legendary acts like Queen, Pink Floyd, AC/DC, and David Bowie. After years of use as a concert hall under the name "HMV Picture House," it was closed in 2013 and taken over by JD Wetherspoon in 2016, who transformed it into a pub after a £2.5 million renovation. The building is recognized as a Grade B listed building, highlighting its historical significance.
The drink offerings at the Caley Picture House are diverse and typical of Wetherspoon pubs, with a special focus on cocktails and real ales. The cocktail menu includes classics like Mojitos or Espresso Martinis mixed with fresh ingredients, as well as seasonal variations for variety. The bar features twelve hand pumps at the main bar, offering a selection of three permanent and up to nine rotating real ales, often from local breweries. A smaller bar area upstairs, known as the "Gods," complements the offering with three additional real ales. Craft beers like Italian Poretti, a full-bodied premium lager, and a wide selection of wines complete the offering. For non-alcoholics, freshly brewed Lavazza coffee with free refills and various tea options are available. The bar regularly shows sports events like the Six Nations Rugby Championship on large screens, making it particularly popular with sports fans.
Culinarily, the Caley Picture House offers a classic pub cuisine with a Scottish twist. Breakfast, served until noon, includes the traditional Full English Breakfast with sausages, bacon, and beans, as well as a Scottish version with haggis, often highlighted by guests. Main courses include favorites like Fish and Chips, with the fish served in a crispy batter, or the Steak and Ale Pie with a rich gravy. For a sweet ending, desserts like Apple Crumble or Sticky Toffee Pudding round off the British taste. Lighter options like sandwiches or salads are also available, and the menu offers vegetarian alternatives. Food is served all day until late evening, with ordering done either at the bar or through the Wetherspoon app, making the service efficient.
The atmosphere of the Caley Picture House is characterized by its impressive architecture and history. The main bar impresses with a cinematic backdrop, while the upper area with plush, cinema-like seats recalls the building's past. The restoration preserved many original details, such as the Art Deco elements and the large stage portal, now serving as a decorative element. During the day, the bar offers a relaxed environment, ideal for breakfast or lunch, while it becomes livelier in the evenings with music and sports events. The pub was highly praised in 2017 in the category of "Conversion to Pub Use" at the CAMRA Pub Design Awards, highlighting the quality of the transformation. The staff is often praised for their friendliness and efficiency, even during busy times.
The Caley Picture House is a meeting place for a mixed audience – from tourists enjoying the historic setting, to music lovers appreciating the venue's past, to locals seeking affordable prices and versatility. It combines the nostalgia of a former cinema and music venue with the functionality of a modern Wetherspoon pub, offering a unique blend of history, drinks, and food in one of the most beautiful settings in Edinburgh.
