Edinburgh: Cheese Crawl with Local Guide

If you’re looking for a fun, tasty way to see a different side of Edinburgh, a Cheese Crawl with a Local Guide might be just the ticket. This tour promises a mix of delicious cheese tasting and local history, all wrapped up in a lively two-hour walk. From what travelers say, it’s a chance to indulge your cheese curiosity while soaking in some of Edinburgh’s best sights—plus, there’s the bonus of a complimentary glass of prosecco at the end.

What we love about this experience is the friendly, knowledgeable guide who keeps things engaging and the chance to try a variety of cheeses at local spots. It’s also nice that the tour offers a relaxed, social vibe—great for small groups or anyone wanting a laid-back, flavorful adventure. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten intolerance, so it’s best to double-check if dietary restrictions are a concern.

This tour appeals most to food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a more relaxed, intimate way to explore Edinburgh’s historic neighborhoods. If you’re keen to combine culture, history, and a bit of indulgence, this cheese crawl could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Taste a variety of local and artisanal cheeses in a relaxed, friendly setting.
• Learn about Edinburgh’s history and heritage through your guide’s storytelling.
• Enjoy a glass of prosecco included in the tour, perfect for unwinding after cheese tasting.
• Small group sizes mean a more personal experience, with knowledgeable and approachable guides.
• Ideal for foodies and those who appreciate local craftsmanship.
• Accessibility is good for wheelchair users, making it a welcoming experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Edinburgh Cheese Crawl?

This experience offers more than just cheese—it’s a cultural tasting tour sprinkled with fun facts, stories, and a bit of local flavor. The cost of around $47 per person covers everything you need: cheese samples, a cheese scone, a guided walk, and the prosecco. For the price, you’re not just getting a snack, but a curated experience that combines culinary delights with Edinburgh’s charming old town.

The tour begins in the city center, meeting outside Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church. From there, your guide will kick things off with a quick intro about Edinburgh’s history and the history of cheese itself. Then, you’re off to visit several local cheese producers and vendors, where you get the chance to taste multiple types of cheese—something that cheese lovers will definitely appreciate.

A Deeper Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Introduction

The meeting spot in front of Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church makes for an easy start, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s bustling city center. As your guide gathers everyone, expect a brief overview of Edinburgh’s history and some tidbits about cheese. It’s a good way to set the scene and get everyone comfortable before the tasting begins.

Visiting Cheese Producers and Vendors

The main part of the tour involves stopping at several local hotspots—cheese shops or producers—each offering a different selection of cheeses. You’ll get to meet cheesemakers, hear their stories, and learn about the origins of each cheese. This part is often highlighted in reviews as particularly engaging. Emma, for instance, mentioned, “We loved Kieran! We had a great time and he was very knowledgeable and easy to chat with.”

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Tasting and Fun Facts

Throughout the walk, you’ll sample many cheeses, from familiar favorites to more unusual varieties. Your guide will entertain you with fun facts, and some reviews mention a cheese-themed quiz, which adds a playful element. One reviewer, Alicia, appreciated how the guide stayed upbeat and flexible, even in tough weather conditions, making the experience enjoyable regardless.

The Cheese Scone and Prosecco

Near the end of the tour, you’ll receive a cheese scone—a nice touch that balances out the tasting experience. The highlight for many is the complimentary prosecco, which adds a celebratory feel. Rachel shared, “Kieran was extremely knowledgable and happy to answer any questions. He was very friendly and a pleasure to be around, very chatty and a lovely smile.”

End of the Tour

The walk concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient for travelers to continue exploring or grab a bite elsewhere. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and many reviews reflect how friendly and engaging the guides like Kieran or Jenny are.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

While many food tours stick to just sampling, this one combines cultural storytelling, local history, and social fun. The inclusion of cheese-related puns, quizzes, and stories makes it feel less like a lecture and more like a gathering of friends with a shared love of cheese. Several reviewers, including Deb and Grace, raved about how much they enjoyed the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge.

The price point of $47 may seem modest considering what’s included—multiple cheese tastings, a cheese scone, prosecco, and a knowledgeable guide. For cheese aficionados, it’s a solid value, especially since you’re not just nibbling on store-bought cheese but sampling from local vendors and meeting cheesemakers.

Practical Considerations

One thing to note: the tour is not suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten intolerance, as per the tour info. If you have specific dietary restrictions, this might not be the best fit, but if you’re open to cheese and dairy, you’ll likely find plenty to enjoy. Also, the tour lasts for about 2 hours, so it’s a relaxed pace—perfect for a leisurely afternoon or early evening.

Weather can impact the experience, especially if it’s rainy, as noted by some reviews. Guides like Kieran made a good effort to keep everyone comfortable and entertained despite the weather, which is worth noting if your trip coincides with poor weather.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cheese crawl is ideal for food lovers, casual explorers, and anyone interested in discovering Edinburgh’s local flavors in a relaxed setting. It’s particularly suited to small groups or couples looking for a fun, intimate activity. If you’re curious about cheese, enjoy walking around charming neighborhoods, and want a guaranteed good time with friendly guides, this tour should be on your list.

It’s not for those with serious dietary restrictions or preferring more structured or extensive historical tours. But if you want a blend of culinary fun, local stories, and social interaction, this experience hits the right notes—and with excellent reviews backing it up, it’s a safe bet.

FAQs About the Edinburgh Cheese Crawl

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
No, this tour is not suitable for vegetarians, as it involves cheese and dairy products that typically contain animal-derived ingredients.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that doesn’t overcommit your schedule.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most participants with mobility aids should be able to join.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a live guide, a walking tour, multiple cheese samples, a cheese scone, and a glass of prosecco at the end.

Are there any additional costs?
Public transport tickets are not included, so plan your transportation to and from the meeting point accordingly.

What’s the best way to dress for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are advisable, especially since you’ll be visiting several spots around the city.

Can I bring children?
The tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but if your children are cheese lovers and can handle a walking tour, they might enjoy it. Just be aware that the tour is geared toward adults.

Wrapping It Up

In the end, the Edinburgh Cheese Crawl with a Local Guide offers a delicious, engaging way to explore Scotland’s capital. You’ll get a dose of local culture, history, and cheese, all with a friendly guide by your side. Ideal for intimate groups, couples, or solo travelers, it’s a smart choice if you’re after a relaxed, tasty activity that feels more like a social gathering than a typical tourist trap.

While it’s not suited for strict vegetarians or gluten-sensitive travelers, the overall experience provides a delightful blend of education and indulgence—something you’ll remember long after the cheese is gone. If you’re in Edinburgh and want to enjoy its flavors in a fun, informal way, this tour could be just the cheese-topping your trip needs.

You can check availability for your dates here: