An inn on this site since 1360, tucked behind Arthur's Seat, with a skittle alley from the 1880s still taking bookings.
The Sheep Heid Inn sits in Duddingston village on the far side of Arthur's Seat, and an inn has reputedly traded on this site since 1360. If that date holds, Wikipedia notes, it is the oldest surviving licensed premises in Edinburgh and possibly Scotland.
Mary, Queen of Scots reputedly stopped here between Craigmillar and Holyrood; Queen Elizabeth II lunched here in 2016. The current building is mostly 18th century, the kitchen is firmly 21st.
Who would hate it? Pub historians wanting the past on the walls. Edinburgh Pub Reviews argues the refurbishment traded backstory for pleasant but generic furnishings.
Low ceilings, a horseshoe bar, and dining rooms polished to country house standards by the current operators. The real artifact stands out back: an old fashioned skittle alley built around 1880, bookable by the hour. Euan's Guide reviewers call the vintage skittles the reason to cross town.
The bar pours Scottish ales and a serviceable wine list, but the kitchen carries the visit: Tripadvisor reviewers rate the food top drawer, and the Sunday roast books out. Pair either with an hour in the alley.
Skip a rushed visit. The walk through Holyrood Park to get here is half the point, and the room rewards a slow afternoon.
Hikers descending Arthur's Seat, Duddingston locals, and visitors chasing the oldest pub claim. Dogs do well here; reviewers flag it as genuinely dog friendly.