Penny Black, Edinburgh

Did not enjoy our visit we found the customers ignorant and very anti ant one if not Scotish had a quick pint and went on the plus side had a good pint of Edinburgh no 3 4.3% and the ignorant bar lad gave me change for a £20 instead of £10 i would have told him if he had been pleasant with us like he was with is countrymen

The outside of this pub features, very briefly, in the opening scene of the film of "Trainspotting" (when they run down the steps outside it after shoplifting from the bookshop). Although it looks nice enough from outside, it's rather rough and run down looking inside. Judging by the customers and the music, it is obviously a favourite haunt of Heavy Metal fans. Despite being on the edge of the city centre, it seemed to be mainly populated by Edinburgh locals rather than tourists.

The Black Bull has a subterranean feel which makes it a good escape from the bustle of the nearby political and commercial bustle. It's a small, low basement bar, narrow and wedge-shaped which adds to its pleasant, intimate atmosphere. The ceiling is quite low in places, so watch your head. No real ale, but there is a fair selection of bourbon whiskies and foreign beers; bourbon tasting nights are a feature. It no longer does food. Gaming machines and an ATM slightly spoil the ambience. The staff are friendly, though some of the clientele are a bit unsociable. Worth popping in if you're happy to drink American or European beers.

Antidote to the big sheds down the road. Usual keg selection. The pub has a pool table & a heavy metal/rock jukebox.