Edinburgh: Gin Distillery Tour and Tasting

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and have an interest in gin, chances are you’ll find this tour at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery a delightful way to learn about Scotland’s favorite spirit. Priced at $40 per person for around 75 minutes, it offers a compact glimpse into the art of gin-making, combined with a taste of some of the distillery’s finest expressions.

What makes this tour stand out? For one, it’s led by a friendly, knowledgeable guide, who brings the process of distillation and the history of gin alive in a way that’s engaging and easy to follow. Also, the Flavor Arch experience, where you can sniff and explore the botanicals, adds a sensory layer many other tours overlook.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour lasts just over an hour, which might feel a bit brief for those wanting an in-depth dive into spirits production. Still, for most visitors, this is a well-priced, authentic experience that suits those curious about Scottish gin and looking for a fun, interactive activity in the city.

If you’re a fan of spirits, enjoy learning about local craftsmanship, or simply want a lively, tasty break in Edinburgh’s Old Town, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for people who appreciate guided explanations and hands-on sensory exploration.

Key Points

• Learn about Edinburgh’s role in gin history through an engaging guided tour.
• Explore the Flavour Arch and discover the aromas, textures, and botanicals used in their signature gins.
• Visit the Stillhouse to see the secrets of distillation firsthand.
• Enjoy a curated tasting of multiple gins with mixers and garnishes.
• Relax with a gin cocktail afterward in the Distillery Bar.
• Wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors, though not for children under 18.
• The tour lasts about 75 minutes, making it a convenient activity for a city break.
• Priced at $40, it offers good value considering the tasting and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches

The tour begins at the historic Edinburgh Gin Distillery, located right in the heart of the Old Town. The setting is modern yet maintains a sense of Scottish craftsmanship, with the distillery housed in a stylish venue that’s easy to access. As you arrive, you’re greeted by the friendly staff and your guide, ready to walk you through what promises to be an entertaining and informative session.

Guided Tour (70 minutes)

The guided tour is the backbone of this experience. Your guide will share insights into Edinburgh’s historical connection with gin, explaining how the spirit became intertwined with the city’s identity. Expect to learn about the evolution of gin production from traditional methods to today’s craft techniques.

One of the key highlights is the Stillhouse, where you’ll see the actual distillation process. While the details of the process are not overly technical, the guide’s clear explanations help you understand what’s happening behind the scenes—making it accessible even if you’re not a spirits aficionado.

The Flavour Arch: A Sensory Experience

A significant feature of the tour is the Flavour Arch. Here, you get to explore the aromas of botanicals used in Edinburgh Gin’s signature products. This is not just a perfumer’s shop—it’s a carefully curated display that allows you to sniff, touch, and even taste some of the ingredients. Many reviews praise this part, with one saying, “It was very interesting to learn about the botanicals that went into the final product.”

This is a particularly engaging segment because it shifts the focus from dry facts to the sensory pleasures of gin-making. You’ll learn how different botanicals contribute to the flavor profile and how the distillery balances aromas and textures in their gins.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting: The Heart of the Tour

The sampling session is where most visitors find the real value. You’ll be offered a variety of gins to try, each with different botanicals and flavor profiles. The tasting includes pairings with mixers and garnishes, enhancing the experience and allowing you to see how the spirits can be enjoyed in different ways.

The reviews underscore the quality of the guides and the carefully curated tasting. One guest noted, “Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, just the right amount of alcohol with her so nobody consumed too much,” which highlights the thoughtful approach to ensuring everyone has a good time without overdoing it.

Post-Tasting: Cocktails in the Bar

After the formal tasting, you’re invited to relax in the Distillery Bar, where you can order a gin-based cocktail. This is a nice touch, giving you the chance to unwind and reflect on what you’ve learned while enjoying a well-made drink. It’s also an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers or ask more questions about the gins.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The duration (75 minutes) is perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.
• The price of $40 is reasonable, especially considering the expert guide, multiple tastings, and the sensory experience.
• Being wheelchair accessible makes it suitable for most travelers, though it’s advisable to confirm specific needs when booking.
• The tour is not suitable for under 18s, given the nature of alcohol tasting, but families interested in the process might still enjoy the tour from an educational perspective.

The Value of This Experience

For the price, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Scottish gin production—covering history, botanicals, distillation, and tasting. You get more than just a quick sip; you gain context about what makes Edinburgh Gin special. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

It’s also well-paced and designed to be both fun and informative. The sensory aspects—the aroma exploration and the tasting—are particularly memorable, making this more than just a lecture. You leave with a new appreciation for gin and its craftsmanship.

While it’s relatively short, the experience is well-rounded. If you’re a spirits enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone who enjoys a social activity, this tour provides good value and authentic insight into Scottish distilling traditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors who:

• Want an authentic, guided look at Scottish gin production.
• Enjoy tastings and sensory experiences.
• Appreciate informative guides who make complex processes understandable.
• Are looking for a short, engaging activity in Edinburgh’s historic center.
• Have no problem with age restrictions and are legal drinkers.
• Are interested in craft spirits and local traditions.

It might not be suitable for those wanting a deep-dive into distillation or a longer, more detailed tour. Also, anyone with mobility restrictions should verify accessibility details beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour and Tasting is a compact, engaging way to learn about Scotland’s favorite spirit. For $40, you receive a guided look into the art of gin making, enhanced by a sensory exploration of botanicals and a tasting of premium gins. The experience is made memorable by friendly guides and the opportunity to enjoy a cocktail afterward.

This experience suits those who enjoy guided, interactive activities and want to understand—and taste—what makes Edinburgh Gin unique. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, fun, and educational glimpse into Scottish spirits without a lengthy commitment.

If you’re in Edinburgh and have even a passing interest in spirits, this tour offers real value, memorable moments, and a taste of local craftsmanship—all in a lively, atmospheric setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the alcohol tasting component.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 70 minutes, with the whole experience around 75 minutes including bar time.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check specific needs when booking.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $40 per person, which includes the guided tour, tastings, and pairings.

Are there options to buy more drinks after the tasting?
Yes, you can join the bar afterward and order cocktails or additional drinks.

What’s included in the tasting?
Multiple gin expressions are sampled with carefully selected mixer and garnish pairings.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English.

What is the best way to book?
You can reserve your spot in advance through the booking platform to ensure availability, especially during busy times.

You can check availability for your dates here: