Fierce Beer on Rose Street has long been one of my favourite places to meet friends who are only in Edinburgh briefly. Its location is unbeatable for travellers; nestled between Princes Street and George Street, it is a stone’s throw from the transport hubs, making it a perfect pit stop before catching a train.
It is a “cosmopolitan friendly pub” that manages to balance the hustle of the city centre with a welcoming, distinct identity. Cosmopolitan because, well, all sorts of people wander in from their Rose Street roaming. While the venue is not huge, it punches well above its weight in character and quality, bringing a slice of Aberdeen’s finest brewing to the capital.
The Beer Selection
Fierce Beer is, first and foremost, a wonderful brewery. The Rose Street bar acts as a showcase for their craft, and the variety on offer is genuinely impressive. One of the bar’s standout features is the accessibility of its menus. Rather than a scruffy chalkboard, they display their current draft list on large, portrait-orientated screens reminiscent of airport departure boards. This might sound like a gimmick, but it is incredibly helpful. You can clearly see the cost, strength, and style of every beer, which is vital when you are navigating choices like their Iron Brew beer or a Rhubarb-infused ale.
For those with dietary requirements, Fierce Beer is a haven. There is growing awareness that gluten-free beer shouldn’t be a rarity, and Fierce has embraced this by offering excellent gluten-free options on tap. They also have a relationship with Aberdeen Football Club and sometimes stock celebratory beers and lagers. It is a fantastic opportunity for us in Edinburgh to sample these award-winning Scottish beers without paying for shipping or hunting them down in specialist shops.
The Venue and Atmosphere
The pub itself is split into two fairly decent-sized rooms. This separation creates a cosy vibe, though the walls can muffle sound between the areas. It means that while the venue is bustling, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when it stays open until 1 am, it can sometimes be tricky to hold a conversation across a large table if the ambient noise levels rise. It is worth noting that while I recall they used to serve food, I didn’t see any signs of a menu on my last visit, so it might be wise to eat beforehand.
Despite the interior quirks, the venue shines in the warmer months. It is very popular during the summer due to its outdoor seating area on Rose Street. It is a prime spot for people-watching when the city is busy. Just be warned: if you pop in for a “quick beer” after work to see a friend, you might find yourself still there five hours later. It would take that long to sample everything they offer.
Things to do in the City Centre
Rose Street is perfectly positioned for exploring the New Town. If you are visiting from out of town, you are likely arriving at Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket, both of which are a short walk away.
For accommodation, the area is packed with options. For a touch of luxury, Hotel du Vin offers a classic Edinburgh experience, while the nearby Premier Inn provides reliable comfort for families. If you are looking to book a stay, it is worth checking lastminute.com for theatre breaks, especially given the proximity of the Assembly Rooms and other venues.
Shoppers are spoiled for choice with Princes Street and George Street flanking the pub. You can lose an hour browsing Waterstones on Princes Street for the latest Scottish fiction, or visit the nearby Edinburgh Dungeon for a spookier slice of local history.
Overall
Fierce Beer on Rose Street is a gem for craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. It combines a convenient location with a stellar, inclusive beer list that rewards curiosity. Whether you are grabbing a gluten-free pint before a train or settling in for a long evening session, this venue welcomes you and encourages you to try something new.
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Review: Fierce Beer
Fierce Beer on Rose Street is a dedicated craft beer bar bringing award-winning Aberdeen brews and gluten-free options to the heart of Edinburgh.
Summary
Fierce Beer on Rose Street is a must-visit for craft beer fans. With “departure board” menus, gluten-free options like Rhubarb ale, and a prime location near Waverley, it’s perfect for travellers. A cosy, cosmopolitan spot that demands a visit.
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