Walking the Old Town of Edinburgh you'll see the city that founded the world’s largest Scottish whisky company, hear of the people that helped whisky production and then retire to Megget’s cellar for a complimentary candlelit single malt whisky tasting from four whisky producing regions.

Upon meeting your expert guide you’ll hear about Edinburgh’s role in bringing whisky to the rest of the world. Learn about how the 19th century changed whisky production in Scotland and of the locals that embraced it, from George Ballantine on South Bridge to Andrew Usher Jr at Nicolson Street, the pioneers that created their own whiskies and exported worldwide.

The tour then continues with a whisky tasting in our candlelit Megget’s Cellar. There’s no better way to warm the spirits. You’ll taste four Scottish whiskies, under the guidance of the whisky specialist – in a kilt, of course.

The expert will cover everything you need to know about the water of life; from how whisky is made to the effects that different elements such as water, barley, peat and the cask have on the production process. Nose and taste your way through the whisky regions, with sample whiskies from Speyside, Highland, Islay and Lowland distilleries. Just consider this your first step to becoming a whisky connoisseur!

Discover the history of the Old Town and its whiskey connections
Relish fine malt whiskeys and learn how your dram was created
Hear of Scotland’s past and the changing role of Scottish whiskey
Get immersed in the past with audio guides and a live storyteller
Enjoy a small group experience with a local storyteller for a more personal experience

This tour is available for adults only 18+

Concession tickets apply to seniors (aged 65+) and students (aged 18+) with a valid student ID

Your tour will be conducted by a live, English-speaking guide (no other language options available)
Visitors will be provided with audio device and headsets, or are welcome to bring their own 3.5mm jack headphones

Please note anyone who appears to be under the influence of alcohol will not be permitted to join the tour

This tour runs in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly to the weather. Sensible walking shoes are advised

Please note only service dogs are welcome on this tour, no other pets

The maximum number of participants is 16 people

This tour route is partially wheelchair accessible

Suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted on the tour

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Tasting of four Scottish whiskies, under the guidance of a specialist
Audio-guided tour
Guided walking tour
Use of equipment
Headsets (to hear the guide)
Alcoholic drinks
Local guide

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Mercat Cross, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, United Kingdom

Meeting point:

The Mercat Cross is an 8 sided monument situated on The Royal Mile. The tour departs from right in front of it. Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the beginning of your tour to allow time to check in.