The rapidly expanding Irish pub chain behind new favourites like Seamus’s in Tollcross and Dougal’s in Portobello has announced its latest acquisition.
Auld Boy Pubs will take over Middleton’s at 39 Easter Road and convert it into the city’s youngest “old man boozer”.
The pub, known for hosting football away days at Easter Road, will get a fresh lick of green paint and a gold trim before opening its doors as Arthur’s in October.
Old Boy Pubs, which is linked to Old Town nightlife fixture Dropkick Murphy’s, has expanded rapidly since the start of 2025 and now owns three pubs across the capital, all in their distinctive Irish pub mould.
Each location has quickly become a favourite of locals, with Seamus’s in particular becoming a runaway success with students in Marchmont, Bruntsfield and Tollcross.
Dougal’s has been a welcome addition to Portobello High Street, while O’Connor’s in Canonmills has served brunch alongside their beers for years now.
All three feature an inviting interior, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Arthur’s will feature six stouts on tap, a wine and crisp pairing menu, whisky, darts, and a host of distinctive offerings like Arthur’s Ale List and a walking club.
Owner and Director Seamus O’Murphy highlighted a unique offering in advance of the bar’s opening:
“We want the pub to be part of the community, and to do this we need to give part of the pub to the community. So, we will be giving away a 1% share in the pub.
“Go to our Instagram to see how you can enter this competition. Please be aware that the profit share will be capped at £10 million for the year.”
The pub group, in a series of social media teasers and posters around Leith, has asked locals the question “Who is Arthur?”
They’ve been coy about the answer so far, but have promised to reveal all when the pub opens its doors next month.
“Who is Arthur?” a spokesperson asks.
“Arthur Duncan? Arthur Guinness? Arthur’s Seat?
“Or maybe it’s none of the above. There’s only one way to find out. See you at Arthur’s.”
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