5 days ago
Five of the best free Fringe venues
E dinburgh comes alive in August, but while the Fringe is full of incredible venues and countless must-see acts, the costs quickly add up. That's why the Free Fringe is so special — it offers more than 350 free (or pay what you can) shows in 22 venues across town, allowing you to enjoy some of the city's best pubs, bars and cafes for less than a fiver. Here are five of the best 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
