In an encouraging sign for the licensed trade in Scotland, a pub which was said to “bring a touch of Pacific sunshine to Edinburgh” has been successfully sold by DM Hall, one of the leading independent Scottish firms of Chartered Surveyors.

The 52 Canoes Tiki Den, which had the distinction of the biggest rum collection in Scotland with more than 200 bottles, not only went to a closing date but it also attracted in excess of the asking price from an established Edinburgh operator.

The hostelry, described by the World’s Best Bars as “bold, bright and lively” with a Polynesian theme and novelty drinking vessels, nestles in the heart of the capital’s busy West End at 13/14 Melville Place.

Housed in a traditional mid-terrace tenement, 52 Canoes has created a splash of colour for revellers and locals alike in its vibrant and quirkily accessorised lower ground floor and basement bar.

Suzanne Lawrie, Business Sales Manager, DM Hall, said: “This successful marketing exercise creates further expectation that the pub trade in Scotland could be turning the corner.

52 Canoes Tiki Den has established a reputation over recent years as a cocktail destination at a time when cocktails are once again becoming popular and ever more complex.

It has developed the same fun, laidback attitude to its food which is served in a series of nooks and crannies and tables and booths, all festooned in South Seas kitsch.

52 Canoes Tiki Den was offered to the market at offers over £325,000.