Deacon Brodie’s Tavern: A Historic Pub with a Dark Secret

If you’re looking for a pub with a rich history and a dark secret, look no further than Deacon Brodie’s Tavern in Edinburgh. This historic pub is named after Deacon William Brodie, a respected businessman who led a double life as a notorious criminal in the 18th century. Today, the pub is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, but its colorful past is still shrouded in mystery and legend.

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Introduction

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, dating back to the early 17th century. It was originally known as the “World’s End Tavern” and was a popular gathering place for merchants, sailors, and other travelers. In the late 19th century, the pub was renamed in honor of Deacon William Brodie, a prominent citizen of Edinburgh who was also a notorious thief and gambler.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern has a reputation for being haunted by the ghost of William Brodie, who supposedly still visits his former haunt to this day. But the real dark secret of the pub lies in Brodie’s life of crime and deception, which remained hidden from his friends and colleagues until after his death.

The purpose of this article is to explore the fascinating history and legends surrounding Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, and to shed light on the dark secret that lies at its heart.

The History of Deacon Brodie’s Tavern

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern was originally known as the World’s End Tavern, and it was a popular hangout for sailors, merchants, and other travelers in the early 17th century. In the late 19th century, the pub was renamed in honor of Deacon William Brodie, a respected businessman and member of the city council who was also a notorious criminal.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern has played an important role in Edinburgh’s history as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It was a popular spot for literary figures like Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott, and it was even mentioned in Stevenson’s novel “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.”

Over the years, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern has hosted many famous visitors, including Sean Connery, Ewan McGregor, and Prince Charles.

The Dark Secret of Deacon Brodie’s Tavern

William Brodie was a prominent citizen of Edinburgh in the late 18th century. He was a respected businessman, a member of the city council, and a deacon at his local church. But he had a secret life as a gambler, a womanizer, and a thief.

Brodie used his position of trust in the community to gain access to wealthy homes and businesses, where he would steal money and valuables. He formed a gang of like-minded criminals and led a double life as a respected citizen by day and a thief by night.

Brodie’s Tavern Deacon Brodie’s Tavern was one of Brodie’s favorite haunts, and it was rumored that he used a secret passage from the pub to access the nearby city chambers where he carried out some of his crimes.

Legendary Ghost Stories Associated with Deacon Brodie’s Tavern

Legend has it that the ghost of William Brodie still haunts Deacon Brodie’s Tavern to this day. Visitors have reported seeing a shadowy figure lurking in the corners of the pub, and some have even claimed to have seen the ghostly form of Brodie himself.

Another legend associated with Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is the curse of the mirror in the back room. It’s said that anyone who looks into the mirror will be haunted by the ghost of William Brodie for the rest of their life.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is also rumored to be home to other ghosts and spirits, including a mysterious woman in white who appears in the upstairs rooms.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern Today

Today, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pub has retained much of its historic charm, with cozy wood-paneled interiors and a selection of traditional Scottish ales and whiskies.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is open daily from 11 am to midnight, with extended hours on weekends. The pub hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, quiz nights, and whisky tastings.

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern Visitors to Deacon Brodie’s Tavern rave about its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and selection of traditional Scottish ales and whiskies. Many also recommend trying the haggis or the fish and chips, both of which are popular menu items.

Conclusion

Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is a historic pub with a dark secret. Named after the notorious criminal Deacon William Brodie, the pub has played an important role in Edinburgh’s cultural and literary history. Today it remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, but its legends and mysteries continue to fascinate visitors from all over the world.

As one of the oldest and most iconic pubs in Edinburgh, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern holds a special place in the city’s cultural and tourism industries. Its rich history and legends make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the darker side of Scottish history.

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh, be sure to put Deacon Brodie’s Tavern on your list of must-visit destinations. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of ghost stories, or just looking for a cozy pub with great food and drink, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern has something for everyone.

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