Beaddictive

Reviewed by:	Bryan Mclean (contact)
Title:	The Banshee Labyrinth - Edinburgh, Scotland
Category:	Bars / Pubs
Rating:

---

The Banshee Labyrinth is guaranteed to thrive with being different. The Banshee Labyrinth is a labyrinth indeed, with rooms such as a cinema, a room with a pool table and a room with a pole for pole dancing. But to some more importantly there are three bars located on different floors inside this pub/club. The place used to be called the Vaults because it is part of the old Vault system of the old town of Edinburgh.

It's atmospheric as all out in the rock scene - underground, the rooms hidden in cavernous vaults over several floors, cold stone walls, even a set of manacles hanging at the end of one candlelit hallway that looked pretty authentic. It's fun, but a bit creepy if you're not in a big group and the area you're in isn't crowded. I happen to like creepy, so I loved exploring the place and having a pint with the resident ghostie. Oh, yeah - it's also haunted as all of these old vaults are, if you believe in that sort of thing. This place has it all, though it's not for the faint of heart! *witchy cackle*

On the lower floor bar there is a stage for live bands to play which they do hold gigs usually at the weekend and occasionally they hold open mic nights which can be great fun to sit back with a drink and listen to the various people who wish to go up and play. It’s a great way to sample different local or visiting bands with their own style of Rock.

Drinks are cheap in comparison to other bars in this area, and the atmosphere won’t leave you feeling like you're in a room full of the undead, rather a relaxed and fun vibe. Music wise, think rock and punk, but don’t be put off by this if you aren’t a long haired rocker, as Banshee caters for all with a mixed clientele.

This bar/club also serves food which I have tried before and it is quite good with a reasonably large portions. Not tried the entire menu yet but they do have their own take on the classic Burger called “The Banshee Burger” which is large and very filling. Well worth trying if you are getting hungry while out drinking. The lower bar also serves Hot Dogs when it is open later at night which is always a good snack while having a few drinks.

Verdict: The Banshee Labyrinth is most certainly an excellent place for a night out, whether you plan to dance the night away or simply to frighten yourself in the cinema with a drink. The Banshee Labyrinth will certainly have you seeing spirits - if only on the back wall of the bar! It has to be one of if not the best Rock bar/club in Edinburgh. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys rock music.