Access surprise!
4
4
Date of visit: October 2026
I am a carer or friend of a disabled person.
Overall Rating
Good
I went to a gig to see my friend's band Ash play. It was pretty packed and heaving. The sound was great. As gig goers were leaving - I realised I had not come up any stairs. This building dates back to 1788 and is made of stone - it has a cave-like appearance as it is part of the structure that makes up South Bridge. A unique venue with a spooky ambience. I have thought there were stairs from the street and within the venue for years. So had to whip out the phone and write a review after a selfie or two with 2/3 of the band after their gig. I see it has been reviewed a while back so hopefully I have some more info to share - or just a wee update.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
Tiny lip at entrance about 2cm higher on one side of it due to the building being built off the side of a massive volcanic ridge that runs from the castle to Holyrood Palace. Their are bollards on the pavement so you would be forced to wheel on the cobbled streets. It is going to be bumpy. But once in it is smooth entrance in hallway down to the main area. There are steps to a viewing platform area. There are a couple of steps down into the bar. I have taken photos of these. Not every event is as busy as the one I went to, but get there early if you need a hand to get to the front or need a chair upstairs.
Accessible facilities: Step-free entrance
Parking & Transport
I travelled to this place by walk or wheel
We walked. The band had a van parked up the road a bit. I'm really not sure where nearest parking is.
Accessible Toilets
Good
As far as accessible toilets go in 18th century buildings this is not bad at all! Clean, great transfer space. Hand dryer, loo roll, soap amd sink, mirror all at good levels. Plenty of grab rails. And really cool quirky walls. The red cord was too short though. Hopefully management see this amd can please extend it to nearly reaching the floor, or a disabled person won't be able to call for help of they have a fall.
Facilities: Accessible toilet
Staff
Excellent
I met a lovely young man who worked at the venue, after most people had cleared out. He saw me taking photos of the accessible toilet so we got chatting about what I was doing, haha! He said they are very happy to have disabled guests come to The Caves. If you’re able to manage steps they will give you a hand to assist you getting to the upstairs viewing area. If you use a wheelchair they are very happy to fetch you drinks or whatever you would like from the bar. He seemed very genuine and helpful.
