As a result of my scientific and forensic research into Edinburgh public houses during my latest visit, I have been accused (unfairly) of frivolity and hedonism and have been the butt of unkindness about the dangers of the demon drink.

I dismissed them as the puritanical exhortations of those who were not fortunate enough to be at liberty in the Capital, and retorted that the appearance of pink elephants in my vision would be the day to embrace temperance.

So upon leaving the Guildford Arms, I totally ignored the black giraffes on Leith Street and sticking my neck out, made my way to the Elm Bar

One of the few things I miss by being in Spain is the atmospheric pleasure of some of the old pubs in Edinburgh