The Sheep Heid Inn

The Sheep Heid Inn stands in Duddingston, a small village on the far side of Holyrood Park from the city centre, roughly halfway between Holyrood Palace and Craigmillar Castle. It is reputed to date back to 1360, which would make it one of the oldest licensed premises in Edinburgh, and possibly in Scotland, although the core of the present building appears to date from the 18th century. Whatever its exact age, it is a pub with a long and well-documented history.

The pub's history is full of famous names. Tradition holds that King James VI played skittles in the courtyard behind the inn, and Mary, Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson are all said to have visited. Queen Elizabeth II called in during 2016 after a day at Musselburgh Racecourse. The old-fashioned skittle alley, built around 1880, is reputedly the last such alley in Scotland, and it can be a fun addition to a group visit.

Today the Sheep Heid describes itself as a pub, bar and restaurant, with its own courtyard for drinks outside in good weather. The menu includes starters, mains, sharing platters and desserts, with lunch, dinner and Sunday menus, and the Sunday roast is a highlight. It opens from noon to 11pm Monday to Friday and from 11.30am to 11pm at weekends, with special hours over Christmas and New Year.

The Sheep Heid suits walkers, couples, families eating earlier in the day and anyone who prefers a historic village pub to a city-centre bar. It is a quieter, more relaxed evening option than the Old Town, and a natural reward after a hike. Booking is wise for Sunday lunch.

The classic way to arrive is on foot over Arthur's Seat or around the park: walk up from Holyrood, descend past Dunsapie Loch or along the southern edge of the park, and finish in Duddingston for lunch or a drink. Duddingston Loch lies just beside the village. If you are not walking, a taxi from the city centre is the simplest option. The pub also offers accommodation, details of which are on its website.