SARAH BLAIR-DICKINSON steps into the eerie world of Edinburgh’s Frankenstein pub, where gothic décor, monster-themed drinks and thrilling animatronic shows bring classic horror to life
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Edinburgh with my family, and as Frankenstein is my favourite classic horror book, the trip wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to The World Famous Frankenstein and Bier Keller.
Housed in what was formerly a 19th-century church, this pub is stunning, with leaded windows and a gothic doorway.
Once inside, you’re greeted by a giant statue of Frankenstein’s monster himself — a perfect opportunity for selfies! Then follow the red-carpeted hallway into the main bar area, which is like walking directly into Frankenstein’s lab — complete with grinning skeletons suspended in glass cases and figures of the monster and his bride posed by the fireplace.
Dimmed lighting and neon lights around the bar lend a very ‘mad scientist’ vibe that complements the stained-glass windows and vaulted ceiling.
The main bar area is quite spacious, with tables scattered throughout as well as a second level with additional seating. We took a seat in one of the red leather-clad booths to have a look at the menu.
If you’re in the mood for food, they have a nice selection of pizzas and a few other typical pub nibbles, but we were just here for the drinks.
The themed cocktails all looked amazing, and the names were on point, with choices like The Monster or Espresso Frankentini. I chose the Corpsey Colada, which was a fancy piña colada with a strawberry twist.
The frothy pink drink was served in a skull-shaped glass laced with strawberry sauce, so it appeared to be bleeding. It was super sweet and very delicious.
As I had my daughter with me, I asked the bartender if she could make a child-friendly drink that wasn’t a basic soft drink. She whipped up a variation of a martini; it was blood-red and toffee apple-flavoured, and my daughter was delighted to find a jelly eyeball peering up at her from the bottom of the glass.
Throughout our visit, amidst billowing smoke, crashing thunder effects and creepy organ music, Frankenstein’s animatronic monster was lowered from the ceiling on a metal plinth, where he rose up and slowly turned his head to stare menacingly at the people seated on the upper level.
The show only lasts for a few minutes, but fortunately, it takes place once an hour, so you’re sure to get a chance to see it.
And of course, there’s merch! We couldn’t leave without taking home a Frankenstein pub t-shirt. The t-shirts are only available in black with the logo in various neon colours, and I was very pleased to discover that they glow in the dark as well.
The ambience here is fantastic and spooky. If you’re a horror fan looking for a quirky atmosphere and cheap drinks, The Frankenstein pub is a must!
The address of The World Famous Frankenstein Pub in Edinburgh is: 26 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN, Scotland.
What did you think of this article about Edinburgh’s Frankenstein pub? Have you ever visited this quirky spot? Share your experience in the comments!
