Overview
Overview
A different kind of night out, born in the heart of Edinburgh. Come for the shanties, stay for the community!
Edinburgh Shanty Night was founded in early 2025 by people who are passionate about communal singing and who have the experience needed to bring people together. In only a few short months, it turned into a popular night out that invites everyone to come along and sing together.
Whether you’re an experienced siren or you swear up and down you can’t carry a tune, we welcome you aboard! Sea shanties are easy to pick up, and all we ask is that you’re willing to be part of the group.
Our shanty nights currently take place more-or-less fortnightly on a Sunday evening, in different locations in Edinburgh. Our original home vessel is the Argyle Cellar Bar, our shanties by the sea take place at the Old Chain Pier, and we are keen to take you with us to other venues across the city! Times and venues will be communicated beforehand via this website (on the main page) and our Instagram channel.
Our events are open to everyone regardless of experience, with a minimum age requirement of 18+ unless specifically stated otherwise. We get so much interest from people who would like to bring their children – our first family-friendly afternoon took place on 31 May and we hope to get more in the diary soon.
You don’t have to book or reserve a spot unless explicitly stated otherwise, and you need no experience to join in. All the lyrics are available on the website and in physical form (we have song books!), so you can really go for it without worrying too much about getting it wrong. At the beginning of each shanty, the Shantyperson takes a couple of minutes to teach the chorus.
Sometimes, attendees bring new songs and teach us! We’re always happy for people to bring their regional (or original!) shanties and teach them.
You’re also more than welcome to lead a shanty yourself! You’ll never find a more supportive and enthusiastic crowd. The main thing to remember is that you’re not coming to watch a performance, you’re coming to join in with dozens of other people and feel like you’re part of a (very haphazard, slightly chaotic) crew.
Curated History
This organization's website offers lyrics for many sea shanties and maritime songs for those interested in participating in the singing.