Halfway House Pub in Leith

Fleshmarket close, 24 Fleshmarket Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1BX

About This Pub

You know, I had a wander into the Halfway House the other day, and it really hit the spot for a proper pub experience. The staff are just brilliant, always up for a chat and quick to sort you out with a drink, which makes the whole place feel so inviting. Everyone seems to get along famously, like you're joining in on a big group catch-up, and the real ales are spot on – fresh and with a good variety that keeps things interesting. It's dead handy being right near the train station too, ideal for nipping in after a day out exploring. But, fair's fair, it's a wee bit on the small side, so if you're after somewhere spacious, you might find it a tad cosy, especially when it gets busy. And while the atmosphere is ace, those closing times can sneak up on you, leaving you wishing for just one more round. All in all, it's a top choice for anyone wanting that authentic Edinburgh pub feel, but it's worth keeping in mind if you're planning a longer session.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The staff are incredibly friendly and efficient, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in
It's got a lovely, welcoming atmosphere where you can easily strike up conversations with others, turning a quick pint into a proper social evening
They serve well-conditioned real ales with a good selection on tap, ensuring the beer is always fresh and tasty
The location is spot on, just a stone's throw from the train station, making it super convenient for a post-travel stop
There's a small outside area, which is a nice touch for a bit of fresh air on a sunny day

Cons

Being a tiny pub, it can get quite packed, especially during peak times, so space might be limited if you're after a quiet corner
The hours might wrap up earlier than you'd hope in some cases, which could cut short a great night out
As it's such a small spot, it might not suit larger groups looking for more room to spread out

Contact Information

Fleshmarket close, 24 Fleshmarket Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1BX

+441312257101

Pub

Opens at 11:00

Opening Hours

Monday	11:00 - 23:00
Tuesday (Today)	11:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	11:00 - 23:00
Thursday	11:00 - 23:00
Friday	11:00 - 00:00
Saturday	11:00 - 00:00
Sunday	11:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Love this little pub. Staff extremely friendly and efficient. Customers are all friendly and we ended up being involved in a group discussion with most of the pub joining in. Was very disappointed when last orders were called as we were having a really good time. Will definitely visit again.

Andy Gale

A nice, small, traditional Edinburgh pub, serving well conditioned real ale. Convenient pub for the train station.

Jim Young

Tiny pub found up one of Edinburgh's famous small Closes. Friendly barman and lovely atmosphere. 4 handpumps with 2 on and another coming on when we were there, a quick turnover which is very good for beer quality. Small outside area between buildings

Ellen Thomas

The Halfway House on Fleshmarket Close was without a doubt, our favorite of all of the 17+ pubs we toured on our visit to Edinburgh (#8 and #16), so much so that we visited several times (Halfway House got an Encore). We had Alchemy Bad Day at the Office Pale Ale, Lovely Nelly Pale Ale, and a few Kelburn Dark Moor, accompanied by awesome Cullen Skink. In addition, as CAMRA members, we got a discount. This is a very tiny place but has such charm and character. I fully suspect this is a pub referenced (under a different name) in one of Ian Rankin's Inspector Rebus books. I will visit here every time I am ever in Edinburgh.

Graham Tranter

We stayed at the Market Street Hotel, just down the street, so had passed here several times. Finally, it was too inviting, so we stopped. Glad we did. . The barkeep was patient and knowledgeable. We learned how to describe our tastes and sampled several to be sure. It was a most excellent evening.

David Hathaway