Raising a Glass to Tradition
As I push open the heavy oak door of The Up and Under Pub, I’m immediately enveloped in a warm, convivial atmosphere. The rich, dark wood paneling and cozy nooks scattered throughout instantly make me feel at home. But there’s something else in the air – an undercurrent of history that seems to seep through the very walls.
This isn’t just any old watering hole. No, The Up and Under Pub has a story to tell. One that stretches back centuries, through the ebbs and flows of Edinburgh’s ever-evolving social and cultural landscape. The Up and Under is a living, breathing time capsule – a testament to the enduring power of the humble public house.
Uncovering the Pub’s Hidden Roots
As I settle into a worn, leather armchair, pint in hand, I can’t help but wonder about the tales this place could tell. Who were the generations of patrons that have passed through these doors? What stories lie beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed?
Luckily, I have a secret weapon in my quest to uncover the pub’s storied past – a local historian named David Kleff. He’s become something of a regular at The Up and Under, drawn in by its irresistible charm and the allure of its hidden history.
According to Kleff, the building that now houses The Up and Under Pub has its origins in the 18th century, when it served as a modest, neighborhood tavern. “Back then, it was a simple, one-room affair,” he explains, “catering to the local working-class population.”
But over the decades, the pub underwent a series of transformations, expanding and evolving to meet the changing needs of the community. “It’s like a living, breathing organism,” Kleff muses. “Each generation has left its mark, adding new layers of character and history.”
A Pub for All Seasons
One of the most fascinating aspects of The Up and Under’s past, Kleff reveals, is its ability to adapt to the shifting tides of Edinburgh’s social landscape. “During the Victorian era, for instance, the pub took on a more refined, ‘middle-class’ sensibility,” he notes. “The decor became more ornate, the beer selection more diverse, and it attracted a slightly more affluent clientele.”
However, this posh veneer was never allowed to overshadow the pub’s core identity as a welcoming, inclusive gathering place. “No matter the era, The Up and Under has always been a hub for the community,” Kleff emphasizes. “It’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together, enjoy a pint, and share in the rich tapestry of local culture.”
This egalitarian spirit has endured through the decades, and is perhaps best embodied in the pub’s iconic annual event – the Burns Night Supper. “It’s a celebration of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, and it’s something that brings the whole neighborhood together,” Kleff explains. “You’ll see everyone from university professors to factory workers gathered around the tables, enjoying traditional haggis and raising a glass to the Bard.”
Adaptability and Resilience
But The Up and Under’s story isn’t just one of tradition and nostalgia. It’s also a tale of adaptability and resilience in the face of change. As the Pellicle Magazine article notes, the pub has had to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, just like so many other establishments.
“It would have been so easy for them to hunker down, to try and weather the storm by shutting their doors,” Kleff reflects. “But that’s not the spirit of The Up and Under. They found ways to adapt, to stay connected with their community, and to keep the pints flowing – even if it had to be through a window.”
This unwavering commitment to serving its patrons, no matter the circumstances, is a testament to the pub’s deep-rooted resilience. It’s a quality that has allowed The Up and Under to survive and thrive through the centuries, weathering everything from economic downturns to global pandemics.
The Spirit of the Pub Lives On
As I finish my pint and prepare to head out, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the institution that is The Up and Under Pub. It’s not just a bar – it’s a living, breathing embodiment of Edinburgh’s rich history and vibrant cultural identity.
And while the specifics of its past may be obscured by the mists of time, one thing is certain: the spirit of the traditional public house lives on, stronger than ever, within these hallowed walls. So the next time you find yourself in the Scottish capital, be sure to stop by and raise a glass to the enduring legacy of The Up and Under Pub – a true temple to the timeless art of brewing and the joy of community.
