Beehive Inn Near Edinburgh Castle to Undergo Major Renovation with Whisky Bar and New Restaurant

Published on December 21, 2025

The Beehive Inn, located just a stone’s throw from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, exemplifies centuries of Scottish hospitality. With a rich history spanning over 400 years, this beloved pub has long been a favourite among both locals and visitors. Known for its historic charm and traditional atmosphere, the Beehive has played an important role in Edinburgh’s pub culture, attracting a steady stream of customers eager to experience its warm and welcoming environment.

However, in an exciting turn of events, the Beehive will soon close its doors to undergo a major transformation. Beginning January 12, the pub will be closed for a brief period of time to undergo a complete overhaul that promises to improve the experience for all who enter. The pub will emerge from its renovation as a stylish and contemporary space that combines the best of its traditional roots with a modern twist.

The Vision Behind the Renovation

The upcoming refurbishment will see a complete refresh of the Beehive’s interior, with plans to introduce a more open-plan dining experience. Upstairs, the space will be transformed into a spacious and elegant restaurant, complete with stylish new furniture and a sophisticated decor designed to appeal to a wide range of guests. The aim is to create an atmosphere where both long-time patrons and new visitors will feel equally comfortable, whether they’re there for a casual drink or a special meal.

In addition to the stylish new restaurant, a key highlight of the renovation is the introduction of a dedicated whisky bar. Known for its whisky-making heritage, Scotland is the home of this world-famous spirit, and the Beehive is set to honour that tradition with over 100 varieties of whisky on offer. Guests can look forward to savouring the finest Scotch whiskies while enjoying the warm, friendly atmosphere that the Beehive is renowned for.

A Multi-Purpose Venue for All Occasions

The renovation will not only focus on the restaurant and whisky bar but will also enhance the venue’s multi-purpose offerings. The top floor of the Beehive will be revamped to accommodate corporate bookings, offering a versatile space for business meetings, events, and conferences. This addition makes the Beehive a more attractive option for businesses looking to host meetings in an inviting and convenient setting.

In addition, the venue’s legendary comedy night will remain a focal point of the Beehive’s programming. The refurbished top floor will continue to play host to these much-loved events, offering guests a night of laughter and entertainment. Whether it’s a casual evening with friends or a corporate gathering, the Beehive will offer something for everyone.

Retaining Talent and Ensuring Seamless Service

During the closure, all 42 of the Beehive’s existing staff will continue to be employed and will be redeployed across other sister venues within the Belhaven Pubs group. This not only ensures that the pub’s staff remain in work during the renovation but also maintains the high level of service that the Beehive is known for.

The team at Belhaven Pubs has expressed their excitement about the project, with many anticipating that the new look and offerings will elevate the Beehive’s reputation even further as a flagship venue in Edinburgh. With the entire staff remaining part of the team during the closure, there is a strong commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and a seamless customer experience once the renovations are complete.

A Premier Destination for Scottish Hospitality

The Beehive Inn has long been regarded as one of Edinburgh’s premier destinations for traditional Scottish hospitality. Its reputation for offering classic pub fare such as steak and ale pie, fish and chips, and hearty burgers has made it a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. Following the renovation, visitors will continue to enjoy these classic dishes, which will be complemented by an expanded menu catering to a variety of tastes.

As part of the revamp, the pub’s extensive wine and spirits offerings will also be expanded, ensuring that guests can pair their meals with the perfect drink. With the addition of the whisky bar, patrons will have access to an unparalleled selection of local Scotch whiskies, making the Beehive a must-visit destination for whisky enthusiasts.

A New Lease of Life for the Beehive

This major investment marks the next chapter in the Beehive’s long and storied history. Following its refurbishment, the Beehive will continue to be a place where memories are made, whether it’s enjoying a drink with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or savouring a delicious Sunday roast. The vision for the Beehive is clear: to provide a modern, stylish setting while retaining the warmth and character that has made it an institution in Edinburgh for centuries.

Belhaven Pubs, the parent company behind the Beehive, has expressed their confidence in the transformation and what it will mean for the future of the pub. By investing in a modernized space with an enhanced whisky selection, an improved menu, and a versatile multi-purpose area, the Beehive is set to become an even more integral part of Edinburgh’s vibrant hospitality scene.

Edinburgh’s Changing Hospitality Landscape

The Beehive’s transformation comes at an exciting time for Edinburgh’s hospitality scene, as several venues throughout the city are undergoing similar renovations. Edinburgh, known for its rich history and cultural significance, continues to draw visitors from all over the world, and the city’s pubs and restaurants are no different. As more venues adapt to meet the needs of modern consumers, the Beehive’s dedication to combining tradition and innovation positions it perfectly for the future.

For visitors to Edinburgh, the Beehive’s renovation will provide an updated but familiar experience. The pub will remain an important stop on any itinerary, providing visitors with a taste of traditional Scottish hospitality with a contemporary twist. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Edinburgh or a regular, the Beehive promises a warm and welcoming environment for all.

[Image Source: Belhaven Brewery Official Website]