Review: The Finch, a pub on Bath Road

The Finch on Bath Road is a pub that has quickly established itself as a firm favourite in Leith. It has been several months since it opened, replacing The Bullfinch, and in that time, it has cultivated a vibe that is entirely its own. I have visited several times and heard it whispered about as a “hidden gem” in Edinburgh.

It is a fair question to ask how much of a change could be made to a pub on a quiet street corner. The answer, in the case of The Finch, is a significant one. The new owners have stripped away the old-fashioned Victoriana brass and dark wood, replacing it with a bright, airy and welcoming space. The first impression is of walking into a stylish, mid-century kitchen, albeit one with a fashionable, distressed, “dilapidated chic” aesthetic. With huge windows flooding the light yellow interior with sunshine, it’s an immediately inviting spot.

The Craft Beer

The Finch is a real attraction for anyone who is a fan of independent or craft beer. For a pub that doesn’t yet serve food (though there are plans in the works), the focus is squarely on the drinks, and they deliver spectacularly.

The beer menu is presented on a large blackboard to the side of the bar, boasting at least a dozen excellent choices from local and national breweries. The staff are fantastic; they are quick, attentive, and they know their stuff, happy to offer recommendations. It feels homely and welcoming, a local pub with a world-class beer selection.

The Venue and Vibe

There is more to The Finch than just the main bar area. The pub has two main rooms at the front, but also a tiny, utterly charming little snug. It’s smaller than a box room, with just one table, making it a lovely, romantic spot for a quiet drink.

To the rear of the pub, there is a beer garden which is, simply put, gorgeous. It’s a real sun trap and a fantastic place to while away an afternoon. It’s no wonder The Finch is already so popular. It has managed to crack the mystery of succeeding in a tough corner, creating a destination pub that people actively seek out.

Things to do in Leith

The Finch is located on the corner of Salamander Street and Bath Road in Leith. While it’s not on a main thoroughfare, it is well worth the short walk. It’s just a few minutes from the fantastic Indian street food at Cutting Chaii, and a short stroll from the green expanse of Leith Links.

Leith is a vibrant area with plenty to see and do. It’s home to the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The Shore is packed with excellent restaurants and bars. Leith is well-connected to the city centre by the new tram line and numerous bus routes. If you’re arriving in the city by rail at Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket Station, Leith is just a short bus or tram ride away.

For those visiting the city, you can find great accommodation deals on Expedia or Hotels.com, and if you need somewhere to leave your bags, Radical Storage has plenty of convenient locations.

Overall

The Finch is a triumph. It has transformed a forgotten corner of Leith into a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and those seeking a welcoming atmosphere. Even on a weeknight, the pub is busy, a testament to the fact that the secret is out. If you enjoy independent craft beer and a pub with genuine character, you must check out The Finch. Highly recommended.