The Star Bar, Edinburgh

I didn't recognise this one at first when looking for it in the back streets of New Town, as the previous white painted front has been replaced, disastrously in my opinion, with black. It's pretty gloomy inside too, and the slightly higher room at the back was in near darkness, which made finding the toilets more exciting than it needed to be. A highlight in the lower area at the front was an ancient table football table. The bar is also in the front part (just as well, in view of the electricity being saved in the rear), with just Timothy Taylor Landlord on one of the two hand pumps. Luckily the beer was in good condition, otherwise the whole visit would have been a washout. Date of visit: 11th June 2019

Very close to the city but very out the way - if that makes sense. You need to know its here, otherwise you wouldn't find it by accident. Quirky interior - with split level seating, with the bar down low. Table football, nick nacks and jukebox. Friendly locals. Not every pub you enter and are immediately asked if you like "Roller Skating". Visit blogged at http://bit.ly/2Dga2p5