The Guildford Arms, Edinburgh

An unusual wedge shaped building in a slightly unpromising location perhaps, but nonetheless just a very short stroll from Princes Street, it consists of a single room downstairs in a sort of a V-shape wrapped around the bar counter along with a smaller mezzanine level floor upstairs. Décor wise it’s quite impressive, with a very high and ornate ceiling with elaborate cornice work and much red and gold paintwork. Large arched and etched glass windows are on both sides with dark wood panelling on the walling in between. A wooden porch with revolving door was inset in to the pub, with only the TV perched on top showing a continual loop of drinks adverts spoilt the effect somewhat. Flooring was red patterned carpet and leather bench seating was around much of the perimeter. Despite the open plan nature of the pub, the unusual shape provided a number of cosy recesses. The upstairs area was clearly more of a restaurant and this was quite different in style with a contemporary appearance including a sanded wood floor and quite jazzy wallpaper. Service at the bar was fast and efficient. The menu offered a decent selection of dishes including pub grub staples such as fish & chips and a burger. I went for the chicken stuffed with haggis, wrapped in smoked bacon and served in a peppercorn sauce, and this was a decent enough dish, although also one of the more expensive options at £15.95. Beers on tap were Edinburgh Gold, Tenby Black Flag, Cromarty Hit The Lip, Thornbridge Tapit, Orkney IPA, Fyne Ales Jarl, Radical Road Reverse, Orkney Dark Island, Pentland IPA and Bombardier. After that lot, cider choice was a little disappointing with only Stowford Press.

Can't think of any other pubs with a revolving door! Used to thing it was slightly more down at heel to the Cafe Royal Bar next door - but on a quiet visit, I got to see it in all its splendour. Its beautiful. Great local real ales all around the bar - so make sure you check them all out before committing.

Old style pub serving 10 real ales . Makes a good double header with the very ornate Cafe Royal next door.