Volunteer Arms (The Canny Man's), Morningside, Edinburgh

A traditional looking Victorian style pub in the popular and affluent Morningside district, I happened to be walking past and hadn’t initially planned on visiting here, but I’m very glad that I did for it is something of a treasure trove within. It’s divided in to a number of different rooms, with the main bar being on the left at the front, another good sized room to the right, and smaller rooms beyond. In terms of describing it, it’s difficult to know where to start, there is simply so much stuff in there. Décor wise it’s quite traditional, with pale patterned carpet on much of the floor, predominantly either very dark green or dark brown paintwork on the ceilings, and dark red paintwork on the walls. The main bar at the front had an impressive collection of musical instruments hanging from the ceiling, including trombones, trumpets, violins and even a drum, whilst the walls and area surrounding the bar housed an extensive collection of bottles. A smaller room at the rear was a cosy spot with fitted bench seating complete with green padding affixed to the wall behind and on the bench seat as well as white numbers 1 – 7 fixed to the bench back which I’ve not seen elsewhere and am unsure as to it’s purpose. A number of pictures were on the wall including some cartoon style black and white drawings, a number of swords, china pots and figurines, some very old electrical switchgear, and a brass post-box! The other room at the front continued the musical theme with the ceiling being covered in sheet music and a mannequin dressed in 1940’s style clothing hanging from the ceiling as well as an extensive collection of old china plates on the wall. Even that doesn’t really do justice to it, you really must go and see for yourself. Beers on tap were 80/ and Edinburgh Gold from Stewarts along with Deuchar’s IPA, whilst a fourth pump appeared unused. The solitary cider meanwhile was Thistly Cross. Definitely a must visit, and quite possibly my new favourite Edinburgh pub.