About Us
Sitting in the heart of the Cowgate.
The Three Sisters is an establishment recognised worldwide. Offering live entertainment, sport and endless options of food and drink, there is something for everyone. The venue has recently undergone through a huge transformation especially within the main bar.
Over 400 Years Ago The Foundations Were Laid…
Originally a tailors’ guild, the history of The Three Sisters is colourful and varied, housing first a tailors, then a courthouse, and later a brewery. But most importantly, in 1733, the venue transformed into a playhouse run by the three McKinnon sisters: Maggie, Cath, and Kitty.
The venue attracted bustling crowds and the best entertainment around, headlined by the sisters themselves. Their talent and beauty drew patrons from across Edinburgh and beyond—until the city council shut the venue down and implemented a prohibition order.
Not to let this get in the way of a good time, The Three Sisters continued to trade illegally, inviting patrons into the back chamber to enjoy wild nights of drinking and entertainment.
Following multiple closures, the sisters were finally found guilty of orchestrating these unlawful lock-ins and were sentenced to execution in the nearest Grassmarket.
Fittingly, it was decided that their bodies would be taken back to the very chamber where the sisters once hosted their late-night performances and were locked away, never to be seen again.
Today, we celebrate the passion and tenacity of the three McKinnon sisters and continue to showcase the best entertainment throughout our venue for your enjoyment.
Maggie, Cath, and Kitty—we raise a glass to you.