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Hey Reader,
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If I’m being honest, I don’t even like whisky. I’ve tried it every which way — neat, with water, with stories about it “opening up” if you just let it breathe. Still not my thing.
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But here’s the twist: I’ve actually loved going on whisky tours in Edinburgh.​
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The first one I took was The Scotch Whisky Experience. I booked it as a gift for my dad — total whisky fan — and tagged along with zero expectations.
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It ended up being one of my favourite Edinburgh experiences.

You don’t need to know your Islay from your Highland. You don’t need to pretend to enjoy smoky drams. It’s designed to welcome you in — not test your palate.

Since then, I’ve taken five more. Each has its own vibe, and you don’t need to be a whisky expert (or fan) to enjoy them.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose the right one for your trip:

My top whisky tour picks

(all tested or personally researched)

🥃 For beginners and families:​
​The Scotch Whisky Experience — central, interactive, and you get to take home a crystal glass

🍸 For gin lovers or curious sippers:​
​Holyrood Distillery — small-batch, creative flavours, and gin tasting included

🚶 For whisky and city views:​
​Edinburgh Whisky Walking Tour — historic pubs, great stories, and zero crowds

🌇 For sleek storytelling & rooftop views:​
​Johnnie Walker Princes Street — cocktail flights, skyline views, and a bit of brand sparkle

📖 For folklore fans:​
​Whisky & Storytelling on the Royal Mile — relaxed, atmospheric, and full of tales

🕯️ For something underground and offbeat:​
​The Lost Close Whisky Tasting — candlelight, stone walls, and whisky with a side of mystery

If you're trying to fit whisky into your trip but not sure where to start, I'd go with The Scotch Whisky Experience. It's easy, central, and doesn’t expect you to know anything at all.

Or if you're more of a gin drinker like me, Holyrood offers a nice mix — and a fresh take on Scotland’s distilling scene.

Either way, these tours book up fast (especially around festivals), so it’s worth locking in your spot early.

Let me know if you want help choosing one — happy to chat through it.

Warmly,
Fiona

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