Gig Venues for Hire in Edinburgh

Booking costs of gig venues average £350 hire fee per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Edinburgh, based on Tagvenue data from April 2026:

Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated April 2026), the best options include:

• Whole Space at Little Picardy in New Town - rated 5/5
  Our user said: ‘Everyone had a great time and i would definitely consider booking it again for the next big party!’

• LIVE Room at The Three Sisters in Old Town - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘Awesome venue, did karaoke and were able to play our own music.’

• The Speakeasy at The Voodoo Rooms in New Town - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘Great service, great help. Supported our charity! The bar staff downstairs in the speakeasy was exceptional!’

You'll find gig venues in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Edinburgh, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (April 2026):

These are the venues within 0.3 mi from central Edinburgh, available to book on Tagvenue:

• Geddes Room at Riddle's Court on 322 Lawnmarket - 0.2 mi from centre.
  Our user said: ‘Lovely place to have my wedding...’
• The Other Room at Dragonfly Cocktail Bar on 52 West Port - 0.3 mi from centre.
  Our user said: ‘We booked an external caterer, magician and DJ and the venue was perfect for 30 of us.’
• James Clerk Maxwell at The Royal Society of Edinburgh on 22-26 George Street - 0.3 mi from centre.
  Venue said: A room that honours scientific discovery while providing a practical, professional environment - perfect for events that aim to inspire.

Most gig venues provide basic sound and lighting equipment, but the specifics depend on the space. Some come with PA systems, microphones, and stage lighting, while others require external hire. Larger venues often offer full AV setups, while smaller ones might just provide a stage area and require you to bring your own gear.

For smaller gig venues in Edinburgh, booking 4 to 6 weeks in advance is usually enough, especially for weekday events. If you're planning a Friday or Saturday night gig, securing a venue at least 3 months ahead is recommended, as these dates fill up quickly. For mid-sized venues in areas like Old Town, New Town, and Leith, it's best to book 4 to 6 months in advance, particularly during festival season or peak event months especially for major events or ticketed shows. If you're aiming for a high-demand venue during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, booking a year in advance is strongly advised.

Yes, many unconventional spaces welcome live music. Some cafés, churches, and creative hubs allow performances and offer something different from the usual gig setup. Always confirm noise restrictions, licensing rules, and available equipment before booking to avoid any surprises.