The Royal Dick, Edinburgh – 28 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

The Royal Dick -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 28 user ratings

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1 Summerhall Edinburgh EH9 1PL

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: Closed, Sunday: Closed

💬 What Students Say

The Royal Dick, located behind the vibrant Summerhall arts venue in Edinburgh, is a charming pub that offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for students looking to unwind after a long week. This unique venue, which occupies the former Small Animal Hospital of the Dick Vet School, is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a space filled with character, showcasing eclectic artwork and veterinary artifacts that add to its distinctive charm. The Royal Dick is highly rated for its overall atmosphere, cleanliness, and music, making it a popular choice among students from the University of Edinburgh.

As you step inside, you’ll immediately feel the relaxed vibe that many reviewers rave about. Students frequently mention the chill atmosphere, which is perfect for catching up with friends or simply enjoying a drink after classes. The crowd here is described as friendly and welcoming, contributing to a sense of community that makes it feel less like a chain bar and more like a local hangout. It’s not uncommon for patrons to lose track of time while enjoying the relaxed environment, where conversations flow easily and laughter is a constant presence.

When it comes to music, The Royal Dick offers a solid selection that complements the laid-back atmosphere. While some students note that the music is decent but not groundbreaking, others appreciate the mix of sounds that create an enjoyable backdrop for socializing. The crowd is generally described as chill, and many students enjoy the combination of good music and a friendly atmosphere. The venue is not known for wild parties, but rather for a more casual night out where the focus is on having fun with friends. This makes it well-suited for those looking to relax rather than engage in a high-energy nightlife experience.

In terms of drinks, The Royal Dick has a diverse range of offerings, including local favorites like Barney's Beer and Pickerings Gin, both of which are brewed and distilled within the Summerhall complex. Students often mention that the drink prices are reasonable, making it a great option for budget-conscious patrons. The venue’s value for money is highly rated, which is a significant plus for students who want to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar staff are noted for being friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive experience.

However, it’s worth noting that while the venue does have a welcoming atmosphere, some students have pointed out that queues can get a bit long during peak times. The ratings for queue experience are generally positive, but it’s advisable to plan accordingly, especially if you’re heading out on a busy night. Arriving early can help you avoid the rush and secure a good spot to enjoy your evening.

The Royal Dick has garnered a reputation for being a great spot for students who appreciate a relaxed night out. Many reviews highlight that it’s perfect for casual gatherings, whether you’re catching up with friends or on a date. The unique charm of the venue, combined with its friendly crowd and solid drink options, makes it a go-to for students from the University of Edinburgh. It’s a place where you can easily feel at home, and many students express their intention to return after their first visit.

In summary, The Royal Dick stands out as a unique pub that caters well to students looking for a chill night out. With its distinctive decor, friendly atmosphere, and solid drink offerings, it has become a beloved spot among the local student community. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as occasional long queues, the overall experience is highly regarded. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or a fun night with friends, The Royal Dick is definitely worth checking out.

If you’re considering a visit, keep in mind that it’s open Monday through Friday, making it a convenient option for post-class relaxation. The venue is closed on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. The relaxed vibe and friendly crowd make it a perfect fit for students who enjoy a more low-key night out without the pressure of a typical club scene. Overall, The Royal Dick is a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a unique pub experience in Edinburgh.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxing with friends.
  • Unique decor with veterinary artifacts and artwork.
  • Highly rated for cleanliness and music quality.
  • Good selection of local drinks at reasonable prices.
  • Friendly and welcoming crowd enhances the experience.
  • Great for casual gatherings or a date night.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Queues can get long during peak hours.
  • Music is decent but may not be very unique.
  • Not the most glamorous venue, which may not appeal to everyone.
  • Closed on weekends, limiting options for late-night outings.
  • Can get a bit hectic at times, depending on the crowd.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed and friendly pub atmosphere to unwind with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on busy nights.
  • Dress code is casual, making it easy to pop in after classes.
  • The venue is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Expect a mix of music styles, perfect for a chill vibe.
  • Prices are student-friendly, making it a great option for budget nights out.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Royal Dick like?

The Royal Dick offers a relaxed atmosphere with friendly patrons and unique decor, making it a great spot for casual hangouts.

How long is the queue?

Queues can get a bit long during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drink prices reasonable and the overall experience offers great value.

What music does The Royal Dick play?

The music is solid, creating a chill vibe, though it may not be very unique.

What is the crowd like?

The crowd is generally friendly and relaxed, making it easy to enjoy your night.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
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Smoking
been there a few times and it's alright. the music is decent but nothing you won't hear elsewhere. drink prices are okay for a night out, but the queues can get a bit long. the vibe is chill and it's a fun space to unwind with friends .
By Anonymous Student on Mar 30th 2026
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Crowd was into it, really added to the atmosphere.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 25th 2026
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The atmosphere's one of a kind. it’s hard not to enjoy yourself here.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 20th 2026
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Music's solid and the crowd's chill. it's a good mix of people and everyone's just there to enjoy.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 13th 2026
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Sound bar staff and good crowd make it a 10/10 night.
By Anonymous Student on Mar 10th 2026
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Not the most glamorous spot but it works for hanging out with mates or a date. relaxed atmosphere and easy to chat.
By Anonymous Student on Feb 28th 2026
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The atmosphere here can really lift your spirits or just feel a bit too much depending on your mood
By Anonymous Student on Feb 11th 2026
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Great for a quick catch-up but you can easily lose track of time in there
By Anonymous Student on Feb 4th 2026
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Always a laid-back atmosphere which makes it easy to relax. never felt out of place there
By Anonymous Student on Jan 29th 2026
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Atmosphere was chill and the service was laid-back. little things that make the place easy to enjoy.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 24th 2026
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Really chill place to relax after a long week. it just feels like a second home now.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 20th 2026
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Perfect spot for a catch-up and a laugh, had a good time just chilling with mates.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 16th 2026
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The crowd's always chill and everyone’s really friendly. makes for a relaxed night out.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 13th 2026
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The kind of night that just puts you in a great mood.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 9th 2026
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The royal dick has a unique charm. feels more local than a chain bar, which is what I like.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 5th 2026
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Drinks are solid and the banter's always flowing. it's a chill spot to hang out for a bit.
By Anonymous Student on Jan 1st 2026
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The crowd's cool and the music's pretty good but it can get a bit hectic at times
By Anonymous Student on Dec 28th 2025
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One of the best places to go out with friends from uni.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 23rd 2025
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Stumbled in and found a really wholesome atmosphere that was kinda fun. would come back for sure
By Anonymous Student on Dec 19th 2025
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Always a mix of people which makes it a good spot. never had a boring night there
By Anonymous Student on Dec 15th 2025
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Everything just clicks and the night flows smoothly without any awkwardness. it’s nice when a place gets that balance right.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 10th 2025
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Had a good night and will be back for sure.
By Anonymous Student on Dec 3rd 2025
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Always a mix of people which makes it fun. never felt out of place there
By Anonymous Student on Nov 30th 2025
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Had a really smooth night, everything just clicked together. made it super easy to enjoy the whole experience.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 26th 2025
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The royal dick has a relaxed atmosphere. it's not your typical chain bar, which is what i like about it.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 21st 2025
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Music's sick and the crowd's cool, can't ask for much else.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 15th 2025
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Chilled start, wild end – exactly how student nights should be!
By Anonymous Student on Nov 9th 2025
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The royal dick has a prime spot. always buzzing with lively people, it feels like a local hangout rather than a chain place.
By Anonymous Student on Nov 1st 2025