Edinburgh’s drinking scene comes alive through well-organized tours that showcase the city’s spirits, beer, and entertainment. For the best value and most authentic experience, I recommend the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour – it’s educational and fun, with talented actors bringing Scottish writers’ stories to life in historic pubs. The Scotbeer Tours excel at combining fascinating pub history with carefully selected craft beer tastings.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the various pub crawls offering drink specials and nightclub entry, while whisky enthusiasts should try the excellent tasting flights in the Old Town’s traditional bars.
Let’s explore the city’s top drinking tours that celebrate Scotland’s rich pub culture…
Key Points
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The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour offers an engaging 2-hour experience showcasing Scotland’s literary heritage, led by professional actors and featuring drinks at hand-picked taverns.
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The Tolbooth Tavern provides a 45-minute whisky tasting experience of three Scottish whiskies, while The Lost Close offers a one-hour session sampling local brews.
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The Old Town Walking Tour includes beer tastings, and the Afternoon Tasting Experience and Evening Whisky Tasting offer guided tastings of single malt Scotch whiskies.
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The Scottish Comedy Night at Dragonfly Cocktail Bar in Old Town features 4-5 comedians performing new material for 2 hours, with an entry fee starting at £7.
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The Edinburgh Bar Crawl and Pub Crawl With Free Shots & Discounts offer 5-hour experiences covering multiple venues in Old Town, with free shots and drink discounts.
The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour
For visitors to Edinburgh seeking a unique glimpse into the city’s rich literary heritage, the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour provides an engaging and entertaining experience.
This 436-review tour, operated by The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour, takes travelers on a journey through the city’s pubs, bringing to life the stories of Scotland’s famous authors.
Highlights include live performances by professional actors, opportunities to purchase alcoholic beverages, and insights into the lives and works of iconic Scottish literary figures.
While some reviewers wished for more pub time, the overall experience is praised for its informative and enjoyable blend of history, literature, and poetry within a lively pub setting.
Read our full review: The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour Review
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Edinburgh: Scottish Comedy Night at an Old Town Cocktail Bar
Visitors to Edinburgh seeking a lively night of Scottish comedy can head to the Dragonfly Cocktail Bar in the city’s historic Old Town.
For £7 or more, guests can enjoy a 2-hour showcase of up-and-coming comedic talent in an intimate setting. The event features 4-5 comedians, plus a host, trying out new material.
Sip cocktails as you support these performers honing their acts for tours, festivals, and TV appearances. The comedy night runs every Thursday, with an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 11 reviews.
Those under 18 aren’t permitted, but the event welcomes couples, groups, solo travelers, and families. Check the event’s Instagram for the performer schedule.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Scottish Comedy Night at an Old Town Cocktail Bar Review
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Edinburgh Pub & History Tour With Scotbeer Tours
Scotbeer Tours offers the Edinburgh Pub & History tour, a small-group experience that delves into the city’s rich brewing heritage.
With 229 excellent reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour explores Edinburgh’s resurgent beer scene through visits to top pubs and beer bars.
Participants can expect 6 beer tastings, a half pint of cask ale, and insights into the capital’s history as a leading bottled beer exporter.
The tour, which costs $49.86 per person, is a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides who share stories and history behind each brew.
Travelers praise the tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and the opportunity to sample unique local beers.
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Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry
Across the vibrant nightlife scene of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Edinburgh Bar Crawl offers an exhilarating 5-hour experience that grants access to over 5 popular venues.
For just €18.07 per person, participants can enjoy free shots, discounted drinks, and free fast-track entry to each locale. An on-hand photographer captures the memories, with photo access within 48 hours.
Ideal for newcomers and solo travelers, the crawl features energetic guides who encourage group mixing and ensure an inclusive atmosphere.
Bookings can be made with a reserve-now-pay-later option, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5, this bar crawl promises an unforgettable night out in the heart of Edinburgh.
Read our full review: Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry Review
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Pub Crawl in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife offers an array of charming pubs, hidden bars, and lively clubs waiting to be explored.
The Edinburgh Pub Crawl is a popular way to discover the city’s nightlife scene. With 196 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour provides a seamless VIP experience.
Participants can enjoy exclusive perks like free welcome shots, reduced drink deals, and skip-the-line entry to bars and clubs. The crawl visits up to 5 venues, allowing travelers to mingle with like-minded people while experiencing the best of Edinburgh’s nightlife.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions, and certain groups may be excluded from the main crawl.
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Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
This 5-hour Edinburgh tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Scottish capital’s captivating connection to the Harry Potter universe while savoring local craft beers.
Led by a Potter-enthusiast guide, the small group experience takes participants to key locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s beloved series, including the Diagon Alley-esque Victoria Street and Greyfriars Kirkyard, the alleged resting place of Tom Riddle.
The tour also includes a beer tasting at The Lost Close, where visitors can sample a variety of Scottish brews and learn about their production.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a fantastic way to take in Edinburgh’s magical heritage and rich brewing culture.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Beer Tasting Review
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The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl
Immersing oneself in Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife is the aim of The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl, a sought-after experience drawing both solo travelers and groups seeking an exhilarating exploration of the city’s renowned bar scene.
This tour takes participants to 7 bars, including a Jager Bomb, while offering discounts and VIP entry. Led by knowledgeable and energetic local guides, the experience fosters a lively atmosphere for drinking games and meeting new people.
Feedback highlights the tour’s fun, recommended for party-goers, though some found it geared towards younger audiences.
With a maximum capacity of 200 and free cancellation, this pub crawl offers a convenient way to discover Edinburgh’s nightlife.
Read our full review: The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl Review
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Edinburgh: Whisky Flight in One of the Oldest Pubs
Situated on the iconic Royal Mile, The Tolbooth Tavern stands as a beacon of Edinburgh’s rich history, having operated as a pub since 1820 within the original Canongate Tolbooth built in 1591.
Offering a 45-minute whisky flight experience, visitors can sample three distinct Scottish whiskies, ranging from smooth and mellow to bold and peaty, or rich and spiced. Priced at $25.13 per person, the experience includes a printed information sheet and the option to enjoy traditional and contemporary Scottish dishes afterwards.
While reviews are mixed, this historic pub provides a cozy setting for those seeking an authentic whisky tasting in the heart of Edinburgh.
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Beer Tasting Session @ The Lost Close
Curious to explore Edinburgh’s rich beer heritage? Consider the Beer Tasting Session at The Lost Close.
This one-hour experience allows you to sample a range of local brews while learning about the city’s brewing history. Expert hosts guide you through tasting techniques and brewing styles in a cozy, underground setting.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate, social atmosphere. At £15 per person, it’s an affordable way to discover Edinburgh’s vibrant beer scene.
Highly recommended by 96% of travelers, this session is a must for beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Just be sure to check the adult-only age restriction before booking.
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Edinburgh: Old Town Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
The Edinburgh: Old Town Guided Walking Tour and Beer Tasting provides a captivating exploration of the city’s rich beer heritage.
Priced from $57.81 per person, the 2.5-hour tour takes visitors on a guided walk through Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, stopping at the Royal Mile and Canongate for beer tastings and optional food pairings.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers insight into Scotland’s beer history from the 1100s to the present, as well as the science of brewing.
Participants can discover local spots, learn about the influence of beer money on the city’s architecture, and identify their favorite beer flavors.
Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out.
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Afternoon Whisky Tasting in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar
Travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Scotland’s renowned whisky culture can enjoy an afternoon tasting experience at a traditional Edinburgh bar.
The 100% traveler-recommended tour offers a Badge of Excellence and is suitable for both novices and enthusiasts. Guests sample four single malt Scotch whiskies, with a tailored experience based on their existing knowledge.
The knowledgeable guide, Neil, leads an engaging and educational journey, praised by past participants for the fun atmosphere and personalized approach.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per group, the tour provides an intimate setting to learn about this iconic spirit.
Free cancellation and flexible rescheduling options make it a convenient choice for visitors to Edinburgh.
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Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour With Real-Actors
Enjoy the captivating literary heritage of Edinburgh during this engaging 2-hour pub tour led by professional actors.
Explore the history of famous writers like Sir Walter Scott and contemporary literature such as Harry Potter and Inspector Rebus.
The theatrical presentation features dramatic dialogue spanning 300 years of Scottish literary history.
Enjoy drinks at hand-picked Edinburgh taverns while engaging in lively discussions.
With a focus on humor and wit, this high-entertainment tour, launched in 1996, is likely to sell out.
For £20 per person, it’s a must-do activity that promises an unforgettable exploration of the city’s literary roots.
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Evening Whisky Tasting in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar
Although located just steps from the iconic Jenners department store and the towering Scott Monument, the Evening Whisky Tasting experience in a Traditional Edinburgh Bar invites visitors to step into a cozy, historic setting.
This 5-star rated tour takes guests on a journey through the world of Scotch whisky, with a knowledgeable and friendly host, Neil, leading the way. Participants will sample 4 different whiskies, learning about the distillation process and the nuances of each variety.
With a maximum group size of 6, the experience offers personalized attention and a customized presentation. Suitable for adults 18 and over, this activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.
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Edinburgh: Pub Crawl With Free Shots & Discounts
Vibrant pubs, lively music, and free shots await adventurous visitors on Edinburgh’s premier pub crawl experience. Priced at just $11.31 per person, this 5-hour tour takes you on a journey through the city’s top bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Enjoy 6 complimentary shots, discounts on drinks, and the opportunity to sample Scottish whisky. Skip the lines at popular clubs and mingle with fellow travelers as you create lasting memories of Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.
With a 4.5/5 rating, this pub crawl offers excellent value and an unforgettable experience. Simply show up at the meeting point with your ID and let the experienced guides lead the way.
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Edinburgh: Craft Beer and Bar Tour With 8 Tastings
On this guided craft beer tour, visitors to Edinburgh can explore the city’s thriving beer scene.
Over the course of the afternoon, travelers will sample 8 different beers while being led by an expert guide. The tour departs at 12:00 pm from outside Summerhall, and ends at the BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh Hotel.
A moderate fitness level is required, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Pregnant travelers and those with heart conditions should avoid this activity.
Gratuities and all alcoholic beverages are included in the tour price. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour is located near public transportation.
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Edinburgh: Pub Crawl 7 Bars With 6 Shots
Visitors can embark on an exhilarating 5-hour pub crawl through Edinburgh’s Old Town, exploring 7 popular bars and receiving 6 complimentary shots.
Priced at £20 per person, the tour includes VIP entry with no cover charges, a 25% discount at selected venues, and an expert guide who’ll share hidden gems and local secrets.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 483 reviews, the pub crawl is highly recommended for its friendly and entertaining guides, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and take in the lively Old Town atmosphere.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, though it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those under 18.
Read our full review: Edinburgh: Pub Crawl 7 Bars With 6 Shots Review
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Sum Up
Edinburgh offers a wide variety of drinking tours that cater to different interests. From literary pub tours to whisky tastings, there’s something for all. Many tours include free shots, discounts, and club entry, making them a great value. Whether you’re a history buff or a craft beer enthusiast, you’ll find a drinking tour in Edinburgh to suit your tastes.