The World's End
Restaurant | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
Traditional Scottish pub Edinburgh
"The World’s End" in Edinburgh is a historic pub deeply rooted in the history of the Scottish capital and has established itself as a staple of the Royal Mile. It belongs to the Belhaven Group, known for its historic pubs, and is named after the Flodden Wall, a 16th-century city wall that once protected Edinburgh's Old Town. The pub's outer wall forms part of this ancient fortification, and the brass cobblestones in front of the entrance mark the location of the city gates. For the residents at the time, everything beyond this boundary was considered a foreign world – hence the name "The World’s End." The building itself, a listed structure, has served various purposes over the centuries, including a bakery and a wine shop, before becoming the famous pub it is today.
Historic pubs in Edinburgh
The atmosphere in "The World’s End" is cozy and inviting, characterized by a traditional Scottish flair. The interior features dark wood, low ceilings with exposed beams, and a comfortable decor that evokes a sense of the past. Pictures of Edinburgh's history adorn the walls, and numerous foreign banknotes hang above the bar – a testament to the international clientele the pub attracts. There is a separate dining area, slightly separated from the bustling bar area, as well as a small beer garden that invites guests to linger in nice weather. Especially on weekends or during the Edinburgh Festival, the pub fills up quickly, often reaching its capacity of around 140 guests. Live music on weekends adds to the atmosphere and draws both tourists and locals looking to enjoy traditional Scottish sounds.
Scottish cuisine in pubs
The menu pays homage to British and Scottish pub culture and offers a variety of classics made with fresh ingredients. A highlight is the "Steak and Ale Pie," a hearty pie filled with tender meat and rich gravy, served in a crispy pastry shell – a dish that warms the soul perfectly. The "Fish and Chips," featuring freshly breaded cod fillets with golden fries, are also popular and often hailed as one of the best in the city. For a touch of Scottish tradition, there are "Haggis Fritters," crispy fried haggis croquettes that impress with their spicy flavor. Vegetarians are not left out either, as there are options like gluten-free or vegan dishes that are prepared with the same care.
Authentic experience in Edinburgh
The drink selection is another highlight, featuring a wide range of beers, including the house-made "World’s End Ale," a smooth, dark beer with low alcohol content that enjoys great popularity. Classic Scottish ales like Belhaven Best and a selection of whiskies round out the experience. For cocktail lovers, there are creative options, while non-alcoholic drinks and wines are also available to accompany the meals.
Beer garden in Edinburgh old town
The service is friendly and warm, with staff often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge of the menu. While it can get a bit hectic during peak times, efficiency is maintained, and guests always feel welcome. The pub is also dog-friendly, making it attractive for many visitors with four-legged companions, and offers free Wi-Fi and televisions for sports broadcasts, which remain discreetly in the background to preserve the traditional atmosphere.
