Learn the story of whisky in Edinburgh on a tour of the Old Town and hear about the people that helped its production through the ages. Then, sample some fine single malt whiskies at the candlelit Megget’s Cellar.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Reserve now & pay later: Reserve now & pay later to book your spot without any charges today. Learn more
Duration 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English

Highlights

Learn the history of Edinburgh's Old Town and its whisky connections
Hear about the changing role of Scotch whisky
Sample some fine malt whiskies and learn how your "dram" was created

Full description

Follow in the footsteps of King James IV - said to be the world’s first famous whisky drinker - on a guided tour of the city he granted a whisky manufacturing monopoly to. Learn about Edinburgh’s role in taking whisky to the rest of the world, and hear how production changed over time. Listen to stories of the locals who embraced the drink with enthusiasm, including George Ballantine on South Bridge and Andrew Usher Jr. at Nicolson Street. Then, taste 4 different Scotch whiskies in the candlelit Megget’s Cellar under the guidance of a whisky specialist. Learn everything you need to know about the water of life, from how whisky is made to the effects that different elements have on the production process. Taste your way through the whisky regions, such as Speyside, Highland, Islay and Lowland distilleries, and take your first step to becoming a whisky connoisseur!

Includes

4 samples of Scottish whiskies
Award-winning guide
TourTalk radio receiver to enjoy live storytelling at a safe distance

Not suitable for

People with mobility impairments

Covid-19 precautions

You must book this activity online because the ticket office is closed

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask

Meeting point

Please arrive at the Mercat Cross on The Royal Mile (High Street) 15 minutes before the start of your tour and check-in with the on-street representative from Mercat Tours.

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Important information

What to bring

Passport or ID card
Comfortable shoes
Headphones
Rain gear

Know before you go

This tour is not suitable for those under the age of 18 years

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 54 reviews

Review summary

Guide
5/5
Value for money
4.6/5
Service
4.8/5
Organization
4.8/5

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If you know nothing about whiskey then this is the tour for you. We started with a history of whiskey walking tour.....thank goodness whiskey was available to warm you up after...really interesting, very knowledgeable guide..Charles. I booked this as a surprise for my partner, he was delighted and excited to learn more about the beginnings of whiskey and how the whiskey trade is where it is today. As I am not a whiskey drinker my partner had double helpings...and that dear ladies is the time to take the men shopping..after the tour! ......make it expensive

October 28, 2019

Fantastic experience

Really enjoyed this tour. It was raining when we started so instead of walking around the streets we stayed under cover and just were given the background to whisky in Scotland. We then went to a very warm room (which we all appreciated after the rain) and had a lesson in different types of whisky. It was fascinating to understand how the differences come about and I walked away knowing a lot more about whisky. Can thoroughly recommend this for those people who take their whisky seriously.

September 1, 2019

Very good facts about the history of whiskey in Scotland and the rest of the world. The significance of it and how it is manufactured. What varieties there are etc. everything you need to know. Then the test. Great guide who told us about the flavors and how and why they are who they are. Good whiskey to try.

August 23, 2019

Edinburgh: History of Whisky Tour and Whisky Tasting

Edinburgh: History of Whisky Tour and Whisky Tasting

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Fantastic experience