Athletic Arms (The Diggers), Edinburgh

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FancyaPint?'s review...
FAP Rating 4 - Click for an explanation of our ratings
Known universally as "Diggers" due to its location either side of two large graveyards, the Athletic Arms is something of a Gorgie/Dalry institution and is certainly worth a detour if you are in this part of town. Opened just before the turn of the last century, it's known for its ornate interior and range of real ale. The bar area is worth admiring in its own right, with free-standing columns and mirrors aplenty. The seating is notably varied, with banquettes in places, tables elsewhere and a more sedate room to the rear which is suited to group chit-chat. As for the booze, apart from various changing guest ales, some excellent IPAs and a good selection of single and blended malts, this place is most famous for selling 80/-, a distinctive heavy ale popular in these parts for generations. Controversially, McEwan's ceased production of the cask variety in 2007, then banned Diggers from selling its own, locally-sourced imitation (which, we understand, was brewed in the pre-mass production style, resulting in a sweeter and slightly stronger variety). The keg version is still available, but it's nevertheless a real pity that a local favourite is no longer to be enjoyed. An excellent pub, though, and if you can handle what we perceive as a tendency to serve regulars in preference to longer-queueing visitors (always rather annoying if you're one of the latter) you should definitely try this one.
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Reviewed by 29 Jul 2010    Helpful? yes/no
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1-3 Angle Park Terrace, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Lothian, EH11 2JX

0131 337 3822

Opening times
Mon-Sat 11:00-00:00
Sun 12:30-00:00
Please check opening times with the pub before making a special journey.
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How to find the Athletic Arms (The Diggers) pub

The nearest train station is Edinburgh Haymarket, which is around a 15 minute walk away. On leaving the station turn right at the Ryries pub onto Dalry Road. Dalry Road runs into Gorgie Road. At the junction of the two, take a left down Henderson Terrace (heading back slightly on yourself) and follow this around to Angle Park Terrace.

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History
13 Jun 11 Updated by FAPadmin