Ardmor House is situated in a quiet spot right in the city centre and very close to all of the gay life in the city – bars, pubs, clubs and cafes are within 7 – 10 minutes walking distance – and it seems even less on the way home from the pub!
Gay life centres round the Broughton Street area and most places around here, if not gay, are certainly gay friendly (see our Edinburgh guide page!)
The following map shows our location in relation to the main gay venues and the following information gives a brief idea of what’s on offer in the city!
- Cafés
The Blue Moon Café (0131-557-0911)– half way down Broughton Street- the main entrance is round the side of the building on Barony Street. This is the oldest gay café in the city with a relaxed atmosphere, good range of wholesome food and a great shop next door (Q Store).
Café Nom De Plume- a good range of staples and specials are on offer in this newly opened gay café on Broughton Street by the boys who also own the Regent Bar on Montrose Terrace.
- Bars/Clubs
The Street – right at the top of Broughton Street on the corner. A stylish coffee/drinking hang out by day and a pre-club bar by night frequented by a young groovy mixed/gay crowd.
Planet – Gay bar with a young clubby crowd. Very busy on the weekends. Situated a few doors down from the Playhouse Theatre at the top of Leith Walk.
CC Blooms – Just up the hill from Planet Out this is the late night version! Beware the dance floor in the basement- you may never leave!!
Habana- gay friendly bar/café situated right next to the Playhouse Theatre and the outdoor seating is perfect for an afternoon pit-stop when the weather’s good (yes it has been known to happen in Scotland!).
The Regent- on Montrose Terrace- at the end of London Road- this is a relaxed and informal ‘chat with your pals’ kind of a place. I love it because they let me take my dog, Lola!
The New Town Bar- on Dublin Street- newly refurbished – much more contemporary in ambience, although a similar crowd- relaxed, mainly guys (although some girls these days!) basement DJ on the weekends!
Club nights – Edinburgh has several gay/queer/mixed club nights throughout the year, including Vibe at Ego (Tuesdays), Joy, Taste, Club Velvet (women with their male pals!), and Tackno. On a regular weekend most people will head to CC Blooms or GHQ (next to the Street) for some late night floor stomping!. Check out the gay listing section of ‘The List’ Magazine for current events.
- Saunas- both of these cater to gay men.
Number 18 - located on Leith Walk, this is a busy and long standing sauna. It’s 100% gay, clean and has a sauna area, jacuzzi and rest rooms.
Steamworks- the most recently opened and just along the road from the Blue Moon Café. At the end of Barony Street (just off Broughton Street) on the left hand side in Broughton Market.
