Rooftop Cold Town House in Edinburgh

Cold Town House: the roof terrace facing the castle, on the Grassmarket

Three levels on the Grassmarket

On a corner of the Grassmarket, the lively square that stretches beneath the castle rock, Cold Town House spreads over three levels: a bar with live music, a floor devoted to the brasserie and pizzas, then the roof terrace. Cold Town beer comes from the in-house microbrewery, and the menu also makes room for other Scottish craft brewers.

The castle as a backdrop

The roof is the venue's greatest asset: flowery décor, wooden tables and, just above the neighbouring buildings, the south face of Edinburgh Castle dominating the scene. Since its renovation, the terrace has been covered by a transparent, retractable, UV-treated roof that lets the light in while sheltering from the wind and rain; up to 100 people can sit here facing the fortress. When the weather allows, the roof slides away and the terrace is back in the open air.

Pizzas, house beers and cocktails

Neapolitan pizzas, baked in the house oven, are the kitchen's claim to fame, alongside loaded fries, burgers and small plates; a children's menu is available. At the roof bar, Cold Town beers sit alongside a short wine list and six house cocktails, all at £12.50. The venue also hosts events throughout the year and shows the big rugby matches.

Practical information

The bar opens daily at noon and closes between 11pm and 1am depending on the day; the roof terrace closes every evening at 10pm, and last kitchen orders there are taken at 8.45pm. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking the roof is strongly recommended: you need to choose the “rooftop” option when booking online, possible for up to 14 people, with larger groups going through an enquiry. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the terrace, and minors until 10pm with an adult. The venue can be hired for parties. Victoria Street and the Royal Mile are a few minutes' walk away.