Distilled essence of working class Edinburgh is on sale at this traditional pub. Drink at the White Horse enough and you'll be classed as a local.

The Venue
As far as looks are concerned, the White Horse is not the most impressive place. Located just off The Royal Mile, the place is so inconspicuous most people probably believe it closed some time ago. Stepping inside is more taking a trip back in time, but you won't be travelling back too many decades. This pub probably hasn't changed much in the past 60 or so years.

Entirely lined with wood apart from one corner of exposed old stones, their idea of decor is old advertising mirrors and miniature white horse statues behind the bar. Seats are clustered around the bar counter or along the opposite wall, where a straight line of benches and tables welcome the few guests who aren't interested in sitting as close to the bartender as possible.

The People
White Horse doesn't really have a crowd, it has a family. The regulars, all jolly grey haired men in old pullovers, have probably been drinking here for more than 30 years and they know each other so well that you'd think they're related.And this is the beauty of the White Horse. Despite its touristy location, this small pub has remained in all aspects a local stronghold. However, don't expect suspicious stares from the regulars, they're all friendly and willing to chat.

On TV, instead of football, they show horseraces and this should give you a final clue to the type of traditional atmosphere filling the place.

The Drink
With no ales and nothing too outstanding, White Horse caters to fairly uncomplicated tastes. People come here for the atmosphere not the alcohol. You'll find a few bottles of single malts but there is no list or impressive display.

What makes up for the limited choice is the fact that prices are far from the tourist's rip-off fares charged everywhere else. Like the rest of the White Horse the prices seem to be a little stuck in time. And the lack or renovation in this case is actually a good thing.

The Last Word
To feel like a real local, drink at the White Horse and you're half way there. After a few pints, you'll even hear yourself picking up the accent.