Top Spots to Watch Sports in Edinburgh

Table of Contents

Lively sports bar in Edinburgh with enthusiastic fans watching live football, vibrant atmosphere, and comfortable seating – Top Spots for Watching Sports in Edinburgh.

Introduction: Top Spots for Watching Sports in Edinburgh

  • Overview of the Sports Culture in Edinburgh

    Edinburgh is a city with a rich sports culture. From football to rugby, the city loves its sports. You can feel the excitement in the air during big matches.

    Many people in Edinburgh are passionate about their favorite teams. They gather in bars, homes, and stadiums to cheer them on. The city is home to famous sports clubs like Hibernian FC and Heart of Midlothian FC.

  • Importance of Sports in Edinburgh

    Sports play a big role in the lives of Edinburgh’s residents. It brings people together and creates a sense of community. Watching sports is a popular way to relax and have fun.

    Sports events also boost the local economy. They attract tourists and create jobs. Many local businesses benefit from the influx of fans during major sports events.

Best Sports Bars in Edinburgh

Popular Sports Bars Edinburgh

  • Bar 1: The Three SistersThe Three Sisters is a lively bar located in the heart of Edinburgh. Known for its large outdoor screen, it’s a favorite spot for sports fans. The bar offers a variety of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a top choice for watching big games.
  • Bar 2: Belushi’s EdinburghBelushi’s Edinburgh is popular for its international sports coverage. With multiple screens and a friendly vibe, it attracts a diverse crowd. The bar also offers great food deals, making it a perfect place to enjoy a game with friends.
  • Bar 3: The Golf TavernThe Golf Tavern, one of the oldest bars in Edinburgh, combines history with a passion for sports. It features cozy seating and multiple screens. The bar is known for its welcoming staff and excellent selection of beers, making it a beloved spot for sports enthusiasts.

Edinburgh Sports Pubs with Unique Features

  • Pub 1: The Sportsman’s HavenThe Sportsman’s Haven is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. This pub features multiple large screens, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action. Unique to this pub is its dedicated “Fan Zone,” where fans can gather and cheer for their teams together. The pub also offers a special sports menu with hearty meals and snacks.
  • Pub 2: The Athletic ArmsThe Athletic Arms, often called “The Diggers,” is a historic pub with a rich sporting heritage. It boasts a collection of sports memorabilia that adds to its charm. What sets this pub apart is its outdoor beer garden, equipped with screens for watching games in the open air. The pub is also famous for its wide selection of local ales and craft beers.
  • Pub 3: The Sporty ScotThe Sporty Scot is a modern pub with state-of-the-art facilities. It features interactive sports tables where you can play virtual games during halftime. This pub also offers private booths with personal screens, perfect for a more intimate viewing experience. Additionally, The Sporty Scot hosts regular sports quizzes and themed nights, making it a lively spot for sports enthusiasts.

Edinburgh Sports Venues

Major Sports Venues in Edinburgh

  1. Murrayfield Stadium: This is the largest stadium in Scotland. It is the home of Scottish Rugby. Major events here include the Six Nations Championship and concerts by famous artists. The stadium can hold over 67,000 fans.
  2. Tynecastle Park: This is the home ground for Heart of Midlothian Football Club. Tynecastle Park hosts Scottish Premiership matches and has a capacity of around 20,000. The stadium is known for its passionate fans and exciting matches.
  3. Meadowbank Sports Centre: It is a multi-sport venue. It has facilities for athletics, football, and other sports. Major events include local athletics meets and community sports days. The centre was recently renovated to offer modern amenities.
Venue Capacity Major Events
Murrayfield Stadium 67,000 Six Nations Championship, Concerts
Tynecastle Park 20,000 Scottish Premiership Matches
Meadowbank Sports Centre Varies by event Athletics Meets, Community Sports Days

Small Yet Significant Sports Venues in Edinburgh

  1. Meadowbank Sports Centre: It is a key venue for local sports. It has a rich history, having hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1970 and 1986. Today, it serves as a hub for community sports, offering facilities for athletics, football, and more. The centre’s modern amenities make it a favorite spot for both athletes and spectators.
  2. Peffermill Playing Fields: Peffermill Playing Fields is known for its excellent hockey pitches. It is the home ground for the University of Edinburgh’s sports teams. The venue is significant for its contribution to university-level sports and its role in nurturing young talent. It also hosts various local and regional tournaments, making it a bustling sports hub.
  3. St Mark’s Park: St Mark’s Park may be small, but it is vital for community sports. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, it provides a space for football, rugby, and other recreational activities. The park is cherished for its accessibility and the sense of community it fosters among local residents. It is a perfect example of how small venues can have a big impact.

Where to Watch Live Sports in Edinburgh

Live Sports Edinburgh: Best Locations

  • Location 1: The Sports BarThe Sports Bar is a popular spot for watching live sports. It offers a variety of sports including football, rugby, and tennis. The atmosphere is lively, and there are multiple screens to ensure you don’t miss any action.
  • Location 2: The Stadium PubThe Stadium Pub is known for its great selection of beers and its dedication to sports. You can watch football, cricket, and even American sports here. The pub has a friendly vibe, making it a great place to enjoy a game with friends.
  • Location 3: The Fan ZoneThe Fan Zone is perfect for those who love a big crowd. This location shows a wide range of sports including basketball, hockey, and golf. With its large screens and enthusiastic fans, it offers an exciting experience for any sports lover.

Edinburgh Sports Events

Annual Sports Events in Edinburgh

  1. Edinburgh Marathon Festival: This event is one of the biggest running festivals in Scotland. It attracts thousands of runners from all over the world. The marathon is known for its scenic route, which passes through the heart of the city and along the coast. It is significant because it raises millions of pounds for charity each year.
  2. Six Nations Rugby Championship: Held at Murrayfield Stadium, this event is a highlight for rugby fans. Teams from Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, France, and Italy compete. The matches are thrilling and draw large crowds. This event is important as it showcases top international rugby talent.
  3. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Competitions: These competitions are held at one of the largest indoor climbing centers in Europe. Climbers of all levels participate, making it an exciting event for both participants and spectators. The significance lies in promoting physical fitness and the sport of climbing.

Upcoming Sports Events in Edinburgh

  1. Edinburgh Marathon Festival: The Edinburgh Marathon Festival is a popular event that attracts runners from all over the world. It features a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and junior races. This year’s event will take place on May 27-28, 2023.
  2. Six Nations Rugby Championship: The Six Nations Rugby Championship is a thrilling event for rugby fans. Scotland will play against England at the BT Murrayfield Stadium. The match is scheduled for February 4, 2023.
  3. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Competition: This event is perfect for climbing enthusiasts. The competition includes various categories for different skill levels. It will be held at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena on April 15, 2023.

Conclusion: Sports Viewing Edinburgh

  • Summary of the top spots for watching sports in Edinburgh:Edinburgh offers a variety of places to watch sports. From lively sports bars to grand sports venues, there’s something for every fan. Some of the top spots include:
    1. Sports Bars: The Three Sisters, The Golf Tavern, and The Pear Tree.
    2. Sports Venues: Murrayfield Stadium and Easter Road Stadium.
    3. Live Sports Locations: City Centre pubs and local clubs.
  • Final thoughts and recommendations:Edinburgh is a fantastic city for sports lovers. Whether you prefer the atmosphere of a bustling bar or the excitement of a live game, you’ll find the perfect spot here. Remember to check the schedules for major sports events and arrive early to get the best seats. Enjoy the vibrant sports culture of Edinburgh!
Top Spots Type Highlights
The Three Sisters Sports Bar Multiple screens, lively atmosphere
Murrayfield Stadium Sports Venue Home of Scottish Rugby
City Centre Pubs Live Sports Location Convenient, various sports