Three pubs near Murrayfield perfect for matchday

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - NOVEMBER 08: Tennents Up & Under Bar during a Quilter Nations Series match between Scotland and New Zealand at the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, on November 08, 2025, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

There is a unique electricity that takes hold of Edinburgh on a rugby international day. Long before the first whistle blows at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, the city’s West End transforms into a sea of navy blue, saltires, and the occasional flurry of opposition colours. For the thousands making the pilgrimage to the stadium, the matchday experience is defined as much by the atmosphere in the local pubs as it is by the action on the pitch. Whether you are looking for a pre-match pint to steady the nerves or a post-match sanctuary to celebrate a victory, the area surrounding the ground offers some of the finest rugby hospitality in the world.

Roseburn 

For those who want to be as close to the action as possible, the Roseburn area is the beating heart of the pre-match build-up. The Murrayfield Hotel and its famous Bothy Bar sit almost in the shadow of the stadium’s concrete pillars. On game days, its outdoor area becomes a bustling fan zone where the air is thick with anticipation and the sound of distant bagpipes. Just a few doors down, the Roseburn Bar offers a more traditional experience, featuring dark wood interiors and a storied history of hosting fans who have been attending matches for generations. It is the kind of place where you can find yourself discussing scrummaging techniques with a total stranger while waiting for a well-poured cask ale. 

Haymarket

The journey toward the stadium often begins at Haymarket Station, and the walk from the tracks to the turnstiles is lined with essential stopovers. The Haymarket Bar, situated right at the corner of the station, is a classic Victorian pub that serves as the unofficial staging ground for the march to Murrayfield. If you are looking for a bit of Irish flair, Malones on Morrison Street is legendary for its live music and a gameday energy that rivals the stadium itself. For those who prefer a more curated selection of drinks, The Caley Sample Room offers a sophisticated alternative with an impressive array of craft beers and a menu that goes far beyond standard pub fare. 

Fountainbridge

A short walk away from the main thoroughfare lies one of Edinburgh’s most iconic establishments, The Athletic Arms, known by locals as “Diggers.” Tucked away on Angle Park Terrace, it is famous for its incredible selection of whiskies and its status as a “proper” rugby pub. It offers a slightly more seasoned atmosphere, away from the more frantic energy of the Roseburn path, making it a favourite for those who want to enjoy the buildup without being shoulder-to-shoulder. 

Regardless of where you choose to set up camp, the golden rule of a Murrayfield matchday is to arrive early. Most of these historic venues operate a one-in, one-out policy hours before kick-off as they reach capacity. As the sun sets over the West Stand and the fans filter back into the city, these pubs remain the best place to relive every try and tackle long into the night.