Haggis paired with whisky & gins in 56 North distillery!

If you’re exploring Edinburgh and looking for something uniquely Scottish that combines great food and drinks, the Haggis paired with whisky & gins tour at 56 North distillery might just catch your interest. While we haven’t done this exact experience ourselves, it seems like a solid choice for anyone keen on tasting local specialties in a friendly, informal setting.

What really appeals to us here is the chance to try traditional Scottish haggis alongside a self-guided whisky and gin tasting. Plus, the fact that it happens at Scotland’s original gin bar and working distillery makes it feel authentic and engaging. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the experience isn’t very long—just around two hours—and some reviews mention that the information provided can feel a bit limited or quiet, so don’t expect a full-blown guided tour with deep storytelling.

This experience is best suited for those who want a laid-back, tasty introduction to Scottish spirits and cuisine without a lot of fuss. It’s a good pick for curious travelers who enjoy sampling and learning, but maybe not for those seeking a highly detailed or lively educational tour. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish experience with traditional haggis and local spirits.
• Self-guided tastings allow flexibility and personalization.
• The distillery setting adds a genuine, behind-the-scenes feel.
• It’s a short, manageable tour perfect for those with tight schedules.
• Some reviews mention the experience can feel quiet or lacking guide details.
• It’s a great choice for adults interested in whisky and gin with a taste for local food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

When you arrive at 56 North, you’ll be welcomed into a cozy, vintage-style bar that’s also a working distillery—what better place to sample Scotland’s famous spirits? The tour is designed as a self-guided experience, which means you’ll get a set of tastings and some notes, but no forced commentary. This setup can be ideal if you enjoy exploring at your own pace, but it might feel a little sparse if you’re expecting a guided narrative.

The Food: Haggis and More

The star of the food part is classic Scottish haggis, served with neeps (turnip) and tatties (potato), plus a peppercorn sauce. If you’re not a fan of traditional haggis, an option for veggie haggis is available, which is great for vegetarians or those unsure about offal. The food is straightforward but satisfying—a hearty dish that’s very much part of Scotland’s culinary identity.

The Drinks: Whisky & Gin

You’ll enjoy a dram of single malt whisky, which is perfect if you’re into exploring different types or just want a taste of Scotland’s famous whisky culture. Alongside, you’ll get two servings of South Loch Gin & tonics, crafted right in the distillery. These are presented neat initially, so you can appreciate their pure flavors, but there’s also the option to add ice and mixers, making the experience versatile.

Tasting Notes and Atmosphere

All spirits come with complimentary tasting notes, which is a nice touch for those wanting to learn more about the flavors and production. The setting—Scotland’s original gin bar—adds a bit of history and authenticity. The overall vibe is relaxed, perfect for unwinding and simply enjoying the flavors without pressure.

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The Practical Details

Price and Duration

At $30 per person, this experience offers a decent value considering the food and multiple tastings included. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable for a short visit, and you can check for available start times when booking. It’s a flexible option, especially if you’re trying to fit in a few activities around your trip.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The start point is straightforward—just walk inside 56 North, and a team member will assist you. The activity concludes there as well, so no need to worry about transportation afterward. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 18, so plan accordingly.

Cancellation and Payment

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind. Plus, the “reserve now, pay later” option makes booking flexible, perfect for adjusting plans if needed.

Authenticity and Feedback from Others

While most reviews are positive, with an overall rating of 4.7 from 17 reviews, some participants found the experience a little quiet or light on guide interaction. One reviewer noted, “Quiet and not very informative,” which suggests that if you’re after detailed narration or storytelling, this might fall short. Another mentioned that the set times and arrangements weren’t always clear at arrival—something to keep in mind if you prefer tightly scheduled guided experiences.

But many appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the chance to sample genuine Scottish spirits in a local setting. The staff, being knowledgeable, can answer questions and help you appreciate the nuances of each drink.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys sampling different spirits and appreciates traditional Scottish fare, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a laid-back, informal experience rather than a highly structured guide tour. It’s great for adults interested in whisky and gin, but not meant for children or those with mobility concerns.

For visitors with a keen interest in local distillation, the fact that it’s a working distillery adds appeal. If you expect an immersive storytelling experience, though, you might find this a tad limited. Still, if you want a casual way to taste, learn, and enjoy Scotland’s iconic flavors, it fits the bill well.

Final Thoughts

The Haggis paired with whisky & gins experience at 56 North offers a relaxed, authentic taste of Scotland. You’ll enjoy hearty food, quality spirits, and a friendly, unpretentious setting that captures the spirit of Edinburgh’s vibrant local scene. While it might not be the most detailed or lively guided tour out there, its simplicity and focus on genuine flavors make it worthwhile.

This experience is best for curious adults who want to explore Scottish culture without a hefty time commitment or overly formal tone. If you’re happy to go at your own pace and enjoy tasting, you’ll likely find it both enjoyable and informative—especially if spirits and local cuisine are your thing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, as it involves alcohol tastings and is designed for adult participation.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the experience guided or self-guided?
It’s a self-guided tasting. You’ll receive tastings and notes but no detailed guided commentary, which some might find relaxing and others might find lacking.

How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers traditional haggis (or veggie option), a dram of single malt whisky, and two servings of South Loch gin & tonics with tasting notes.

Is accessibility considered?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs before booking.

If you’re after a chilled, flavorful glimpse into Scottish food and spirits, this tour at 56 North distillery could be just the ticket. It’s an easy way to indulge your taste buds and learn a little about Scotland’s distilling heritage—without a lot of fuss or fussiness.

You can check availability for your dates here: