Scotland and whisky, do we need to say more? If you’re into whisky or just like to try it for the first time, Edinburgh is the perfect place. You can take an official tour of go low key and grab a pub. Check out my favorite places for whisky tastings in Edinburgh, along with a DIY pub crawl idea if you want to skip the tours and just enjoy some drinks.
Did you know, that ‘Whisky’ is the Scottisch way of writing and ‘Whiskey’ the American way? Since we’re in Scotland, we will use the Scottish version.
1. Scotch Whisky Experience Edinburgh
This is probably the most famous whisky attraction in the city, and it sits right at the top of the Royal Mile next to Edinburgh Castle. The Scotch Whisky Experience Edinburgh offers several tour options, from a basic introduction to whisky production to in-depth tastings with a whisky ambassador.
Tours include a guided tasting where you’ll learn to nose and taste whisky properly. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions. If you’re new to whisky, this is a solid starting point.
Check their website for tour times and booking. It gets busy during summer and festival season, so book ahead if you can.
2. Johnnie Walker Experience Edinburgh
Opened in 2021 on Princes Street, the Johnnie Walker Experience Edinburgh is a slick, modern visitor centre spread over eight floors. It’s all about the Johnnie Walker brand, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into blended Scotch, this is your place.
The tour takes you through the history of the Walker family, the art of blending, and the flavour profiles of different whiskies. You’ll finish with a tasting session on the rooftop bar, which has cracking views over the city.
3. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is a members’ club, but the downstairs bar is open to the public. This place is brilliant if you want to try single cask whiskies that you won’t find anywhere else. The venue itself is gorgeous, set in a Georgian townhouse on Queen Street. It’s a bit more formal than a pub, but still relaxed and welcoming.
Each bottle is unique, drawn from a single cask and bottled at cask strength. Ask the bar staff for recommendations based on what you normally enjoy. They’re really helpful and will pour you a sample if you’re curious. Whisky flights are available if you want to compare several drams side by side.
4. Whisky Rooms Edinburgh
Whisky Rooms Edinburgh is tucked down a narrow close off the Royal Mile. It’s a cosy bar with exposed stone walls, low lighting, and an impressive collection of over 400 whiskies. This is a great spot to explore whisky flights, which are curated sets of three or four drams served on a wooden board. You might get a regional flight (all Islay, for example) or a themed selection like sherry cask finishes.
They offer guided tastings and masterclasses, or you can just turn up and order from the menu. The staff know their stuff and are happy to help you choose something new to try.
5. Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop
Scotland’s oldest independent bottler has a shop on the Royal Mile, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Cadenhead’s bottles whisky from distilleries across Scotland without adding any coloring or chill-filtration, so you’re getting it pretty much as it left the cask.
They don’t run formal tours, but you can taste several whiskies at the counter for a small fee. The staff are passionate and will talk you through what makes each bottle special.
They also stock rum, gin, and other spirits if you want to branch out.
The DIY Whisky Experience 🥃
Our taste
Whiskeys we like and just fits our taste are Sheep Dip & Monkey Shoulder
If you love a bit of DIY like me, you’ll appreciate the idea of saving the tour money to actually buy whisky instead. There are so many excellent places to try whisky in Edinburgh without paying for the information of a tour. Just read the menu or ask the bar staff and you’ll have a good selection to choose from. Here’s my recommended route for a self-guided whisky pub crawl around the city.
Pace yourself and drink water between whiskies. Edinburgh’s pub scene is brilliant, but whisky tasting is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, chat to the bar staff, and enjoy discovering what you like.
The Bow Bar
Start at this classic Edinburgh pub on Victoria Street. The Bow Bar has an impressive selection of whiskies and a charming, old-school atmosphere. It’s usually busy, especially during Six Nations rugby nights, but worth squeezing in for a dram.
Sandy Bells
Head to Forrest Road for Sandy Bells, a traditional folk music pub with a decent whisky selection. You might catch some live music in the evening, which adds to the experience.
The Abbotsford
This Victorian bar on Rose Street is beautiful, with ornate wood panelling and a long whisky list. It’s a bit quieter than some of the other pubs, so it’s a good spot to sit and savour your drink.
Teuchters Bar
On William Street in the West End, Teuchters has a more laid-back vibe and a strong whisky menu. The outdoor seating area is nice in summer if you need some fresh air between drams.
The Albanach
This bar at the corner of Cockburn Street has a solid collection of around 300 single malts. It’s right in the heart of the Old Town, so it’s easy to drop in as you explore the Royal Mile.
Insider tip
Make sure to check out whisky flights, which are curated tasting selections of whiskies served together on a wooden board. Many of these pubs offer flights, so you can try several drams without committing to full measures.
Whisky tastings Edinburgh offers are some of the best in Scotland. From the big visitor experiences to tucked-away bars with hundreds of bottles, there’s something here for everyone. Grab a dram, take your time, and enjoy exploring Scotland’s national drink in its capital city.
