The Standing Order (JD Wetherspoon), Edinburgh

Of the 2 JDW's on George Street this one has the best beer choice, sadly it's often difficult to get any. On our latest visit it was absolutely packed with shoppers and pensioners enjoying the afternoon specials. We did eventually get served, but there was no chance of a seat. It's a great looking building and it's worth calling in for one to have a look around. However there are so many good pubs in Edinburgh I've never stopped for more than one in here.

This large Wetherspoons was formerly a branch of the now defunct Union Bank of Scotland, hence the banking related name. The building was originally built in the 1870’s and is Grade A listed. The main bar is housed in the cavernous old banking hall and is quite a spectacular sight with its high ornate ceiling, elaborate cornices and glazing. The bar counter stretches the entire length of one side whilst the opposite side has a raised drinking area. In between is largely standing room only and, despite its size, it does get quite squeezed at peak times. There are multiple TV’s (showing Sky Sports when I was there) and also a central Big Screen. At the front of the building and off to one side are a few smaller rooms each with patterned windows, brass chandeliers, portraits and each having there own little bit of individual character. The food and drink go with the territory although there was a better than normal selection of ales across the 3 banks of 6 hand pumps and on my visit it was pleasing to see no “Available Soon” clips although some of the pumps were doubled up. If you can a) remove any inhibitions you may have about ‘Spoons regular negative aspects b) get a table and c) get served, then you’ll find the Standing Order is probably as good a ‘Spoons as you’re likely to find anywhere.