Iconic castle view bar in Edinburgh announces half a million pound makeover

Cold Town House, one of Edinburgh's most iconic rooftop bars, is getting a major £500,000 makeover in time for the Easter weekend from Friday 3rd April.

Article Source: Cold Town House
Last Updated: 10 March 2026 11:52

Since opening its doors in 2019, Cold Town House in the Grassmarket has established itself as one of the capital’s most popular rooftop bar experiences with a stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

A two-month construction project is now underway to transform and elevate the venue even further with a state-of-the-art retractable roof, new bar and terrace layout, as well as a showstopping design glow up.

The main architectural feature of the project will be a retractable transparent roof structure, allowing up to 100 guests to enjoy social gatherings with a castle view in all weathers.

The specially engineered structure will be UV-protected, providing natural daylight, whilst offering shelter from wind and rain.

The new rooftop bar at Cold Town House will also be the ultimate alfresco destination in the heart of the Grassmarket during the warmer spring and summer months.

Nic Wood, Director at Signature Group, which owns Cold Town House, said: “Cold Town House has already made its name as one of the capital’s most popular rooftop bar experiences, but we’re now taking the guest experience to new heights with our exciting new makeover this Easter.

“We’re so lucky to offer our guests the ultimate city-centre location with amazing views of Edinburgh Castle.

“With our new retractable roof in place, we will now be able to guarantee a fabulous time to get together with friends and family whatever the weather, come rain or shine.

“We’re now the only venue in the whole of Edinburgh to offer a rooftop bar experience quite like this, so we’re really excited to be unveiling our new look to new visitors and our regular local customers from Friday 3rd April.”

Cold Town House is supporting the local construction industry as part of its makeover project by using a number of local firms, including AJ Build and Management, CBrown Electrical Services, Outside Space Solutions and the Severino group.

The architects are iKAD Architects Ltd and the engineers are Kiloh Associate Ltd. The interior design project is being managed by Tibbats Interior Design.

Advance bookings are recommended to ensure guests are guaranteed a space in the new Cold Town House rooftop bar. Walk-ins are also welcomed on a first come, first served basis.

Private bookings are available for special occasions. Email reservations@coldtownhouse.co.uk

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