Edinburgh: Gin Distillery Tour and Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and have even a slight interest in spirits, a gin distillery tour might just be a top pick. This particular experience at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery offers more than just a sip; it’s a window into the craftsmanship behind one of the city’s favorite drinks. With its approachable price point and engaging format, it’s a solid choice for anyone curious about how gin is made and what makes Edinburgh Gin unique.

What we especially like about this tour is the friendly, knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely passionate about their craft, and the chance to explore the botanicals and distillation process up close. Plus, the tasting session, where you get to sample some renowned gins with mixers and garnishes, makes it feel both educational and a little indulgent.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about 75 minutes, which is a decent chunk of time, but it does mean you’ll want to block out part of your day for it. Also, it’s not suited for under 18s, so it’s strictly an adult experience. If you’re a fan of spirits, looking for a fun, insightful activity in Edinburgh, and don’t mind paying around $40, this tour is definitely worth considering.

This experience is especially well-suited for adults who enjoy spirits, those interested in local craftsmanship, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative activity in the city.

Key Points

• Engaging guides deliver approachable insights into gin-making
• Botanical exploration via the Flavour Arch creates a sensory experience
• Curated tastings offer a variety of gin expressions with mixers and garnishes
• Duration is about 75 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy day
• Not suitable for children under 18
• Wheelchair accessible and flexible booking options

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour

The tour kicks off at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery located in The Arches, right in the heart of the Old Town. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a setting that feels authentic and welcoming, perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship. This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how Edinburgh’s iconic gin comes to life, with plenty of interesting stories along the way.

Guided Tour: A Deep Dive into Gin Making

The guided tour lasts about 70 minutes and covers the essentials that make Edinburgh Gin stand out. You’ll learn about the history of gin in the city—how it became intertwined with Edinburgh’s identity—and the distillation process that turns botanicals into your favorite spirit. The guides are praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, making even complex topics accessible. One review highlights this, saying, “Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, just the right amount of alcohol with her so nobody consumed too much,” reflecting how the guide strikes a balance between informative and lighthearted.

The Flavour Arch: A Sensory Experience

One of the standout features is the Flavour Arch, which showcases the botanicals used in gin production. Here, you’ll get to smell, feel, and taste various aromas and textures. It’s a clever and interactive way to understand how different botanicals influence flavor profiles. This part of the tour helps you appreciate why certain ingredients are chosen and how they contribute to each gin expression. It’s especially fun if you’re a foodie or enjoy exploring new flavors.

The Stillhouse: Secrets of Distillation

Next, you’ll visit the Stillhouse, the heart of the operation, where the magic happens. Here, you learn about distillation techniques and the importance of details—like temperature control and botanical infusion—that influence the final product. This segment demystifies the process and makes you see gin as both a craft and an art. Travelers who enjoy learning about production methods will find this part particularly engaging.

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Gin Tasting: Sipping and Pairing

The highlight for many is the gin tasting session. You’ll sample several of the distillery’s acclaimed gins, each paired with carefully selected mixers and garnishes. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding how different combinations change the flavor experience. Reviewers, like Ronnie, appreciated how the guide balanced the sampling, ensuring nobody drank too much while providing interesting insights into each expression.

After the tasting, the experience continues at the Distillery Bar, where you can order a cocktail made with Edinburgh Gin. It’s a relaxed way to conclude your visit and enjoy the city’s spirit scene in a cozy, friendly environment.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at The Arches: The meeting point, easy to locate in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
• Guided Tour: Covering distillation, botanicals, and history (about 70 minutes).
• Flavour Arch: Interactive sensory exploration.
• Stillhouse: A behind-the-scenes look at how gin is made.
• Tasting Room: Sampling multiple gins with mixers and garnishes.
• Post-Tour Bar: Enjoy a cocktail with your preferred gin.

The entire experience lasts around 75 minutes, which fits neatly into a morning or afternoon slot. The group size is generally manageable, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $40 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re not only getting an engaging guided walk and detailed insights but also tasting several gins that you might not easily find elsewhere. The curated pairings elevate the experience, giving you a more nuanced appreciation of gin flavors. Whether you’re a casual gin drinker or someone who admires craftsmanship, this tour provides a compact, enjoyable deep dive into Edinburgh’s gin scene.

Some reviews commend the knowledgeable guides and the overall relaxed, friendly vibe. They note that the experience is well-paced, informative without being overwhelming, and perfect for those looking to learn and taste in one go. The option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve with flexible payment makes it easy to plan without stress.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy spirits and want to learn more about the craft behind their favorite drink. It’s especially suited for those curious about local Edinburgh traditions and botanical flavors. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even on a solo trip, you’ll find this a friendly, enriching activity.

Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for minors, so plan accordingly. If you’re after a more intense spirits tour or a whisky experience, you might want to look at other options, but for gin lovers, this is a charming way to spend some time and pick up a new appreciation.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is designed for adults over 18, as it involves tasting alcohol and is not appropriate for minors.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour is about 70 minutes, with the entire experience around 75 minutes including tastings and post-tour bar time.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a guided walk of the distillery, tastings of multiple gins, and curated pairings with mixers and garnishes.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors with mobility needs.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

Can I buy a gin to take home?
While the review doesn’t specify, most distilleries typically have retail options—check at the end of the experience or ask your guide.

What if I want to have more drinks after the tour?
You’re welcome to stay in the Distillery Bar after your tasting and enjoy a cocktail made with Edinburgh Gin.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, educational, and flavorful way to spend some time in Edinburgh, this gin distillery tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a relaxed way to learn about the art of gin-making, explore botanical aromas, and enjoy curated tastings without feeling rushed. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch that elevates the whole experience.

While it’s not for kids and might not satisfy those looking for a more intense spirits adventure, most adult visitors will find this tour engaging and worthwhile. The price is reasonable for what you get, especially considering the quality of the tastings and the insider knowledge.

This tour is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a taste of Edinburgh’s craft scene in a friendly, approachable setting. It’s a solid choice for a relaxed afternoon activity that combines learning, tasting, and a bit of local flavor—plus, you get to leave with a greater appreciation for Edinburgh’s gin.

You can check availability for your dates here: