Five of the best free Fringe venues
An institution of Edinburgh's late-night scene — 'Drops' is the Guinness-flavoured slice of Ireland all Fringe-goers need to experience. Hidden in a cul de sac between Grassmarket and Greyfriar's Kirkyard, the bar will host Irish Comedy Free-For-All, UK Pun Off. If you've had enough Jameson to stomach it, try #ComedyKaraoke.
7 Merchant Street
Westside Rodeo on George Street
Two worlds collide in Westside Rodeo on Edinburgh's illustrious George Street. It's a handsome Georgian townhouse on the outside, but a whole other world as you head downstairs to be met by hay bales, cowboy hats and of course, a mechanical bull. Join last year's best new act runner-up, the comedian James Beckett, for our top pick: Stutter Island.
51A George Street
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The City Cafe in the Old Town
Fancy a latte with your laughs? Grab an all-day diner-style breakfast at the City Cafe, an Old Town venue that hosts a huge number of shows and even features (relatively) family-friendly shows throughout the afternoon. Kick off with Ben Ashurst's Breakfast Club stand-up show at 10am — boozy brunch vibes guaranteed.
19 Blair Street
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One of a trio of pubs — the Pear Tree and the Counting House both also host free Fringe shows — spanning three stories of one of Edinburgh's picturesque tenements by the uni. Between them, the trio have everything from speakeasy vibes and a sun-trapped beer garden to a show for all tastes. Our top pick at West Nic? Not My Audience combines Mock the Week with unpredictable crowd participation.
32-38 West Nicholson Street
For a slightly more laid-back vibe, the Hanover Tap (formerly Jekyll and Hyde) is one of the Free Fringe's longest running venues and welcomes back 100% Funny Feckers for its fifth sell-out run. Tucked just off the hustle and bustle of Princes Street, The Hanover Tap is a perfect spot to wind down after a day in the thick of the Fringe.
112 Hanover Street
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