Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour with EatWalk Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and looking for a way to enjoy its culinary scene while getting a feel for the city’s history, this Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour by EatWalk Tours might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, with over 470 reviews and a perfect rating of 5.0, it’s clear that many travelers find it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What we love about this experience is its focus on local flavors and personalized storytelling—you get to taste a wide variety of Scottish dishes that will leave you satisfied, all while learning about the city’s past in a relaxed setting. The small group size (max 10) means you’ll get more attention from the guide and a less rushed feel. One consideration to keep in mind is that it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and if you’re after a very leisurely or private experience, you might want to explore other options.

This tour suits those who love trying new foods, appreciate insightful local guides, and want an engaging way to see Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. It’s especially great for first-timers or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a hearty taste test.

Key Points

• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling.
• The experience offers enough food to serve as a full meal, making it good value.
• A small group size creates a personal, less crowded vibe.
• The itinerary covers key historic and scenic parts of Edinburgh’s city center.
• Multiple tasting stops include food and drinks, some of which are paired with alcohol.
• Dietary accommodations are available if advised in advance, ensuring everyone’s needs are met.

An In-Depth Look at the Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour

When we think about exploring a city like Edinburgh, food tours often come to mind as a perfect way to mix culture, history, and delicious bites. This particular tour ticks all those boxes, offering around three hours of walking, tasting, and storytelling through both the Old and New Towns. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage, all within a manageable, intimate group.

What’s Included and How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

For $135.90 per person, you’re getting food and drink selections that amount to a full meal—think of it as a hearty brunch, lunch, or dinner. Reviews mention that the food is plentiful, with many describing the experience as more than enough to satisfy hunger. It’s also worth noting that dietary requirements can be accommodated if you advise at least 48 hours in advance, adding a layer of flexibility.

Considering the price, it’s a good deal if you’re after a mix of tastings, local drinks, and city insights. The inclusion of alcohol, such as wine, whiskey, and other drinks, enhances the experience, especially for those interested in Scottish spirits. Plus, with a small group, you’re likely to receive more personalized attention and enjoy the narrative behind each tasting spot.

The Itinerary: What Can You Expect?

The tour makes six notable stops, each offering not just a taste but a story that ties into Edinburgh’s rich past. Here’s a breakdown:

Grassmarket: Food and Drink with a Historic Flair

The tour kicks off with a visit to Grassmarket, where your guide will share stories about the area’s historic significance. Here, you might find yourself sampling traditional Scottish fare while soaking in views of the city’s vibrant past. Several reviews mention that guides share engaging stories about local landmarks, making each bite more meaningful.

Chambers Street and the Museum of Scotland

Next, you’ll explore Chambers Street, which connects food and culture, with a stop that likely involves tasting local specialties connected to Scotland’s traditions and history. The Museum of Scotland’s story is intertwined with the city’s food culture—an enriching perspective that adds depth to your culinary adventure.

Edinburgh’s Old Town

Walking through the winding alleys of Old Town, your guide will explain the city’s medieval roots along the way, all while stopping at restaurants that serve iconic Scottish dishes. This area is perfect for photo ops and enjoying the historic ambiance.

Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile

These iconic landmarks aren’t just for sightseeing—they’re part of the story behind Scotland’s food and drink. At each stop on the Royal Mile, your tasting will be complemented by stories about local traditions, making your culinary journey both flavorful and educational.

New Town and Modern Edinburgh

Finally, the tour shifts to New Town, showcasing Edinburgh’s more contemporary side. Here, you might taste modern takes on traditional dishes, paired with local wines or cocktails. Several reviews highlight the guide’s ability to connect these culinary highlights to Edinburgh’s evolving culture.

The Food and Drink: What Will You Taste?

Travelers consistently mention that the tastings are generous, often equating to a full meal. The stops include a variety of Scottish foods, possibly including haggis, seafood, traditional baked goods, and local cheeses. Some stops offer alcohol pairings like whiskey or wine, which enhance the flavors and add a special touch.

A common praise from reviews is the quality and variety of the food, with some mentioning that the selections are among the best dishes they had in Scotland. The inclusion of whiskey at a private club, as one reviewer notes, is a highlight—adding a sophisticated and authentic element to the experience.

Guides and Personal Touch

The tour guides stand out as a highlight, with multiple reviews praising their knowledge, storytelling skills, and friendliness. Guides like Wag, Sarah, Tilly, and Mhairi are singled out for making the experience engaging and informative. Their stories often extend beyond food, providing insights into local history, culture, and even current economic factors.

One review describes Wag as “most informative, funny, and patient,” which suggests that the tour isn’t just about eating but creating a memorable experience through warm and engaging hosts. Another mentions a guide sharing helpful tips about Edinburgh, making the experience practical as well as enjoyable.

Walking and Comfort

The tour involves walking around Edinburgh’s historic streets, which means you’ll want comfortable shoes and a readiness for variable weather—rain is common, and Edinburgh’s cobbled streets are charming but can be uneven. The physical activity is moderate but should be manageable for most travelers with average fitness.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small-group setting allows for a more intimate experience, better interaction with guides, and fewer crowds. Many reviews echo how the size makes the tour more personal and flexible, especially when accommodating dietary needs or answering questions.

Downsides and Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, some travelers point out minor drawbacks. For example, portion sizes at certain stops—like sharing haggis—have been a point of disappointment, but these are often mitigated by the tour’s efforts to check guest preferences and offer options for more food or alcohol. Also, some reviews mention initial confusion about meeting points, emphasizing the importance of clear instructions.

Price is another factor—$135.90 might seem steep for some, but considering the length, quality, and inclusivity of tastings, many agree it’s good value. Still, if you’re someone who prefers totally private or leisurely experiences, this may not be your first choice.

Who’s It Best For?

This tour is ideal for food lovers, those interested in Scottish culture, and travelers who enjoy engaging guides and walking tours. It suits first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Edinburgh’s historic core paired with delicious bites. If you’re traveling solo, the small group feels welcoming, and even groups of friends or couples can enjoy the lively, social atmosphere.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or who want a very relaxed, sit-down experience—since walking is involved—and the weather can impact the comfort level. Also, if you’re not keen on alcohol, make sure to inform the guides beforehand, but note that some tastings do include drinks.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s culinary heritage combined with history, scenic views, and engaging storytelling. The high praise from past travelers about guides like Wag, Sarah, and Tilly underscores how important the hosts are to making this experience special. The generous tastings and variety of stops create excellent value, especially for those eager to get a taste of Scotland beyond just sightseeing.

For anyone who loves exploring on foot, appreciates good food and drink, and wants to learn as they go, this tour strikes a great balance. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want a lively, authentic glimpse into Edinburgh’s food scene while strolling through its historic streets.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy food and drink tastings that are enough to qualify as a full meal, including alcohol options like wine and whiskey at some stops.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours, walking through the city and stopping at several notable locations.

Is the tour suitable for dietary requirements?
Yes, dietary needs can be accommodated if you inform the organizers at least 48 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Are drinks included?
Yes, some stops include wine, whiskey, and other beverages. You can choose from different drink packages, especially with options coming in 2025.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically tailored for children, it’s generally suitable for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy walking and tasting food.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be outside most of the time.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance won’t be refunded.

Will I learn about Edinburgh’s history?
Absolutely. Guides share stories about each area, linking local landmarks to Scottish culture and history.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the quality of food, drinks, guide expertise, and the duration, most reviews suggest it’s excellent value—especially if you want a comprehensive culinary experience combined with sightseeing.

In the end, this Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour by EatWalk Tours appeals to those who want to explore Scottish cuisine in a lively, engaging way, without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. It’s a cozy, flavorful way to spend a few hours in this historic city, leaving you with both tasty memories and a deeper appreciation of Edinburgh’s character.