This is a whisky tour like no other! Led by a former whisky brand ambassador who travelled around the world promoting Scottish Whisky, you will be in the hands of one of Scotland’s foremost experts as you explore the history, flavours and spirit of whisky.
In this five hour, leisurely, story driven walk through Edinburgh, we will tie major milestones in Scotland’s whisky history to real locations, drams, and characterful pubs.
As this is a private tour for your group only, we will meet you and drop you back off at your hotel – or leave you at a suggested whisky pub near your hotel, as you wish.
Our guide will meet you at your hotel, AirBnB or other holiday accommodation, and take you back at the end of the tour.
‘Aqua Vitae & the Church’ We will begin our tour at St Giles’ Cathedral, at the top of the Royal Mile, to anchor whisky’s medieval origins and its early association with monks. As we stroll down the Royal Mile, why not stop over at the Royal Mile Whiskies for a glance of the many whiskies on offer.
‘Whisky as Medicine’ We will then walk down past the High Street toward Surgeons’ Hall, as we discuss whisky’s role as the “water of life” dispensed by medics.
Doctors - Historic Pub Going through Cowgate, we will have the opportunity to skip by the Doctors pub for a dram. This pub founded in 1874 is a historic landmark with links to Edinburgh University and the old Royal Infirmary, and has a great selection of whiskies on offer.
Expansion & Industry — Union, Taxes & Prosperity We will head north across North Bridge into the Georgian New Town, as we discuss England’s influence on whisky regulation, taxation, and commercial opportunity. We will stop over at the Cafe Royal, considered the oldest dedicated whisky pub in this district.
The Age of Blending: Grocers & Innovation We will then walk toward Calton Hill, which spans stunning views of Edinburgh. We will discuss how grocers like Valvona & Crolla pioneered blending and helped whisky reach mass appeal. From the Calton Hill viewpoint, we will note the industry highs and lows.
Future of Whisky We will finish off our tour with an optional stop at Panda & Sons for a modern whisky cocktail experience. This will be a good opportunity to discuss innovation, mixology, and whisky’s current renaissance. From here, we can either walk you back to your hotel, or leave you to enjoy the rest of the day as you sample the many whisky cocktails on offer.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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