5 BEST Whisky Experiences in Edinburgh
You’re visiting Edinburgh and or Scotland for the first time and you want to discover the ‘Water of Life’, the ‘Amber Liquid’ or ‘Scotch’ as its maybe better known as. Here is my TOP 5 whisky experiences available in Edinburgh that will leave you as warm as the whisky in your belly!
Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, is a haven for whisky enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the city offers a delightful array of whisky experiences. Let’s raise our Glencairn glasses and embark on a memorable adventure:
5 BEST Whisky Experiences in Edinburgh
TIPSY MIDGIE WHISKY BAR - 67 St Leonards Hill, Edinburgh, EH8 9SB www.tipsymidgie.com
Your FIRST MUST STOP is Tipsy Midgie. This bar has been open for two years and in that time they have won Best Whisky Bar in Scotland 2023 and 2024 as well as; the owner and whisky aficionado, Colin Hinds, taking the title of Whisky Guru of the Year!
This bar has over 1000 bottles of whisky open including those hard to find, rare and whisky exclusives. They host incredible events like Distillery Discovery nights, Splendid Blended Mondays where all blends are £3 and Sunday Exploration flights for £10. They host bespoke whisky tastings and tutorials, chocolate and whisky pairings and flights. If you are a novice and new to whisky, Colin will find you a whisky you love and if you are an expert, Colin will introduce you to whisky you never knew existed!
Open Thursday to Monday from 5pm. Drams from £2-£1000. Flights to suit your budget. Chocolate and Whisky Pairing £40pp. Do check for Edinburgh Fringe dates and times during August.
JOHNNIE WALKER EXPERIENCE - 145 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 4BL www.johnniewalker.com
The Johnnie Walker Princes Street Experience revolves around the captivating tale of Johnnie Walker whisky only. This blended masterpiece comprises five distinct whiskies sourced from various corners of Scotland. Prepare to be enchanted by immersive, Disney-esque tours that delve into the brand’s origins and its ongoing journey. These tours offer a delightful blend of experiences, including:
Whisky Flavour Profiling: Discover your unique whisky preferences.
Crafting Your Own Highball: Get hands-on in creating your perfect drink.
Rooftop Bar with Castle Views: Sip world-class cocktails while gazing at Edinburgh Castle’s majestic silhouette.
Open daily from 10am. Tours from £30-£95pp
SUMMERHALL DISTILLERY - 1 Summerhall, Summerhall Distillery, Edinburgh EH9 1PL www.summerhalldistillery.com
Summerhall Distillery is a hidden gem within Summerhall (which is the largest private art centre in Europe), known for producing both Pickering’s Gin and The Broody Hen Scotch Whisky. Tucked away in the old Vet College, this dedicated whisky distillery offers an unforgettable journey for whisky enthusiasts.
Here, the whisky experience is both relaxed and intimate. It unfolds primarily in their cosy whisky tavern. During this delightful encounter, you’ll have the opportunity to taste four of their exquisite Broody Hen whiskies. As you sip, they’ll regale you with captivating whisky stories, tales, and folklore—unveiling the rich history of the “Water of Life,” from daring smugglers to clandestine stills. It’s an immersive journey into the heart of Scotland’s whisky heritage!
Open Thursday to Sunday. Tours £25pp. Do check for Edinburgh Fringe dates and times during August.
SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE - 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NE www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk
If you’re eager to delve into the fascinating world of whisky production, look no further than the Scotch Whisky Experience. Here, every sip tells a tale, and every aroma whispers secrets from the distillery.
Buckle up for an enchanting journey through time. Climb aboard a magical whisky barrel and glide through the history of Scotch whisky. From ancient alchemy to modern craftsmanship, you’ll witness it all. In the Sensory Cinema, you’ll need to brace yourself for a multisensory extravaganza. The screen comes alive with swirling grains, bubbling mash, and misty glens. You’ll practically taste the peat and feel the oak. There’s so much to see but I won’t spoil it for you.
Open daily from 10am. Tours £23-£96pp
DISTILLERIES - HOLYROOD, PORT OF LEITH and GLENKINCHIE
A visit to a distillery offers a unique experience to learn about the intricate process of crafting Scotland's national drink, from malting and mashing to fermentation, distillation, and maturation. Engaging with passionate distillery guides unveils the secrets behind each dram, making the tasting experience even more special. Furthermore, the chance to sample a variety of whiskies, each with its distinct flavours and characteristics, is a true delight for whisky enthusiasts and novices alike. Incorporating a whisky distillery tour into your Scotland itinerary promises a memorable and authentic experience that truly captures the spirit of this remarkable country but if you are only visiting Edinburgh, this is also now remarkably easy with 3 whisky distilleries right on our doorstep. Read my post on the Three Easiest Distilleries to visit in Edinburgh - HERE
Holyrood Distillery - open daily from 1130am. Tours £30pp www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk
Port of Leith Distillery - open daily from 10am. Tours £20-£26pp www.leithdistillery.com
Glenkinchie Distillery - open daily from 10am. Tours £20-£135pp www.malts.com/en-gb/distilleries/glenkinchie
When exploring Edinburgh, consider immersing yourself in at least two of these delightful experiences. Begin your journey at the Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar, and then select another captivating whisky adventure. By doing so, you’ll savour Scotch Whisky from across Scotland without ever leaving the city!