From now until September, a top Edinburgh venue will sport a flashy new look – and Aperol fans should take note.
15:55, 05 May 2025Updated 15:56, 05 May 2025
The bar offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle(Image: Ben Glasgow)
An Edinburgh rooftop bar has announced it will be getting a major makeover this summer. The popular venue offers views of the famous Edinburgh Castle and things are about to get even better.
Cold Town House is situated in the Grassmarket area of the Scottish capital. It has announced that it has teamed up with Italian bitter apéritif brand Aperol to undergo a refurb between May and September.
The Mediterranean-inspired outdoor experience has been created specifically with Edinburgh’s summer social scene in mind. The new rooftop and street level pop-up bars at Cold Town House feature soft outdoor furnishings, a giant disco ball-style chandelier, art installations, and atmospheric lighting.
Guests can also enjoy a new ‘Aperitivo Hour’ menu between Sunday and Thursday. As part of the menu, three small plates can be enjoyed for £20.
Among the dishes on offer as part of the Aperitivo Hour menu are buffalo mozzarella with marinated rainbow tomatoes and basil pesto and garlic bruschetta. Cajun corn ribs, pork belly bites, and haggis bon bons will also be available.
Additionally, Cold Town House’s classic stone-baked Neapolitan pizza menu can be ordered. All of the pizzas are hand-stretched and baked in an artisan-built wood-fired oven from Naples, while the pizza bases are made with the bar’s own Cold Town Beer.
Cold Town House has received an orange makeover
General Manager at Cold Town House Nikk Stevens commented: “We’re really excited to be working with our friends at Aperol to launch our new rooftop and street level pop-up bar experience in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket this summer.
“It’s a great addition to this season’s alfresco social scene and the ultimate city-centre location to enjoy outdoor gatherings with friends and family.
“As well as getting the chance to enjoy Aperol Spritz in the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, our special combination of light-catching perspex and metallics have created an immersive, memorable and Instagrammable experience for everyone.”
Cold Town House has received very positive reviews from customers. The Edinburgh bar has an overall rating of 4.5 out of five on Google based on 2,702 reviews.
One recent visitor shared: “Gorgeous pub to sit in the sun. Very busy so definitely book if you want the rooftop.”
A second wrote: “Absolutely brilliant. The location is perfect, under the castle.
The changes will remain in effect until September(Image: Ben Glasgow)READ MORE: Inside picture perfect Scottish Highlands cottage with summer house for sale
“The servers are all super friendly. The pizzas are really good, as are their beers. The fish & chips is huge. The atmosphere is super nice. Don’t hesitate. Remember to book.”
Another agreed: “Great experience in this quirky venue! We loved the building so much and inside was such a great atmosphere—well laid out and especially enjoyed the Photo Booth!
“Food and drinks were delicious and staff were friendly and attentive. Look forward to coming back!”
The new Aperol Spritz bar is now open seven days a week, from 11.30am until late. More information can be found on the Cold Town House website.