A Hidden Gem in Edinburgh: McEwan’s Tavern and its Role in For the Love of a Scottish Lass

In For the Love of a Scottish Lass, I wanted to capture the essence of historic Scotland, and one of the key settings that brings the story to life is McEwan’s Tavern. Nestled close to the bustling Portobello Promenade in Edinburgh, McEwan’s Tavern is rich in character, making it the perfect backdrop for pivotal moments in the novel. The tavern’s charm, with its ornate decor and cozy atmosphere, reflects the heart of Edinburgh’s history. Chosen for its proximity to the port, McEwan’s Tavern becomes more than just a location—it’s a place where the threads of love, and history intertwine in the story.

Page Count: 150-ish

Series: Lords of Seductive Language, Book 2

Publisher/Author: Lyrica Lovell

Release Date: September 9, 2024

The History of McEwan’s Tavern

McEwan’s Tavern, as depicted in For the Love of a Scottish Lass, is a place steeped in history and tradition. It is loosely based off of the Ormelie Tavern, a real life location in Edinburgh. Originally a grocer’s shop at the base of a tenement building, the tavern was transformed into a welcoming pub around 1904. Its location near the Portobello promenade made it a popular spot for locals and travelers alike, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere just steps away from the bustling port.

The tavern’s interior is rich with character, featuring an impressive gantry adorned with ornately carved pillars painted in gold and black. The long bar, surrounded by cozy seating and ornate lanterns, invites patrons to linger and enjoy the company of friends. Two original snugs remain to this day, offering intimate spaces where visitors can experience a piece of Victorian Edinburgh. The walls, adorned with historical photographs and golf memorabilia, tell stories of the tavern’s past, while the large Victorian mirror in one snug adds a touch of old-world elegance.

In creating McEwan’s Tavern for the novel, I drew inspiration from these historical details to craft a setting that feels both authentic and timeless. While Ascog Hall is the place where most of the flashback scenes in the novel take place, most of the character’s “present day,” i.e., 1808 scenes, take place in McEwan’s.

McEwan’s Tavern in the Novel

In For the Love of a Scottish Lass, McEwan’s Tavern plays a crucial role in the unfolding romance between Bennit Bashing, the Duke of Silverblade, and Beth MacLachlan. This cozy, character-filled pub serves as a key setting where some of the novel’s most significant moments occur. 

The tavern, with its intimate snugs and historic ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for the reunion of Bennit and Beth. After years apart, their paths cross once again in this bustling port tavern. 

If you read book one you might remember this Tavern as it was a featured setting towards the end of For the Love of a Damsel. This is the tavern that Lady Annabelle, from book one, ended up for an extended stay as she recovered from pneumonia after being thrown over the side of a ship into the cold waters around Scottland.

The Charm of McEwan’s Tavern: Why Readers Will Love It!

McEwan’s Tavern is full of charm and historical allure. The exterior of the tavern is striking, painted a deep black with gold trim that catches the eye of anyone passing by. This elegant yet unassuming facade gives way to a welcoming interior, where the true character of McEwan’s Tavern comes to life.

Inside, the tavern is designed for comfort and warmth. The floors are carpeted, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites patrons to settle in and stay awhile. A long bar stretches across one side of the tap room, its surface well-worn from years of service. Behind it, the impressive gantry, with its ornately carved pillars and rows of malt whiskies, stands as a testament to the tavern’s rich history.

The tap room is filled with tables, each offering a perfect spot for conversation, a meal, or simply enjoying a drink. The abundance of seating reflects the tavern’s popularity, particularly given its prime location. Situated near the bustling port, McEwan’s Tavern sees a steady stream of visitors, from local workers to travelers passing through. Its proximity to the beach also adds to its appeal, providing characters in the novel with easy access to the shore, where they can take leisurely walks and enjoy the sea breeze.

In For the Love of a Scottish Lass, these details of McEwan’s Tavern help to create a vivid setting that feels authentic and alive, making it a place where the story’s romance and drama can naturally unfold.

Bringing McEwan’s Tavern to Life

Creating McEwan’s Tavern for For the Love of a Scottish Lass was a journey into the heart of Edinburgh’s rich history. While the real-life Ormelie Tavern provided inspiration, McEwan’s Tavern took on a life of its own within the novel, becoming a place where the characters’ stories are deeply intertwined with the setting. The name McEwan’s actually comes from a famous Scottish beer that is brewed in Edinburgh, Scottland. 

In crafting this fictional tavern, I wanted to capture the essence of a historic Scottish pub—warm, welcoming, and full of character. By drawing on the real history of such places and adding unique touches, like the black-and-gold exterior and the well-loved tap room, McEwan’s Tavern became the perfect backdrop for Bennit and Beth’s love story. 

As readers walk through the doors of McEwan’s Tavern in the novel, I hope they feel transported to this cozy corner of Edinburgh, where the past meets the present and where love finds a way to thrive. The tavern isn’t just a setting; it’s a place where memories are made, secrets are shared, and the bonds between characters are deepened.

Get the Book

For the Love of a Scottish Lass is available for pre-order exclusively on Amazon. Don’t miss the chance to explore McEwan’s Tavern and the rest of Bennit and Beth’s world. Be sure to follow me on Pinterest, YouTube, and subscribe to my newsletter for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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