Experience The Real Scotland With An Edinburgh Whisky Tour

Scotland is famous for many things. Braveheart, the Loch Ness Monster and the ruggedly-beautiful scenery all come to mind. But there is one thing above all others that has really put the country on the map: whisky.

A trip to Edinburgh is simply not complete without visiting at least one of the traditional breweries on offer in the near vicinity of the city, so take a look at the list below and enjoy an experience that you won’t forget.

• Glenkinchie Distillery

The Glenkinchie Distillery, home of ‘The Edinburgh Malt’, is located 15 miles from Edinburgh near the village of Pencaitland. The distillery includes a malt whisky exhibition in the listed red-brick building and the opportunity to taste the wonderful Glenkinchie Single Malt. Standard entry is £5 although there are concessions available, and visitors should be aware that children under 8, although welcome, are not allowed into the production areas. Opening times vary throughout the year, but it usually closes at either 4pm or 5pm.

• The Famous Grouse Experience

The Famous Grouse Experience takes place at the Glenturret Distillery outside of Crieff, which holds the honour of being Scotland’s oldest distillery. During your time here you can find out how the Glenturret Single Malt Whisky is produced, and how it is blended into The Famous Grouse, as well as spending some time in the nosing and tasting bar. One of the highlights of the visit is the interactive BAFTA award-winning show that should not be missed, and you can top it all off with a trip to the restaurant and bar. Prices start from £4, and tours run between 9.30am and 4pm.

• The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience is not an actual distillery, but rather provides the perfect opportunity to find out all about this famous Scottish product. It is situated right in the heart of Edinburgh next to the castle, and consists of a whisky tour, shop, restaurant and bar. You can find out all about the history of whisky and the differences between them, enjoy a few tastings, and you may even get a free glass to take home with you. The price is £8.95 with concessions, and it generally closes at 6.30pm or 7pm.

• Tullibardine

About a 45-minute drive north of Edinburgh in Blackford, you will find the Tullibardine Distillery. This popular whisky has an army of loyal fans, and you can enjoy a number of different tours around the distillery, including a 45-minute standard tour, an optional 30-minute tutored tasting, a 90-minute bonded Tour or a 2-hour Connoisseur Tour for the real expert. Entry for the standard tour is £5 with concessions available, and it also has a decent café in which to finish off your trip.

• Blair Athol

Established 1798, Blair Athol is one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland. Located in the town of Pitlochry, next to the A9 and about 90 minutes from Edinburgh, it is here that the 12-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky is produced. Tours vary throughout the year, and during the summer it is open seven days a week.

Entry is £5 for adults and concessions are available, and it also boasts a well-stocked shop.

Photo of Glenkinchie Distillery, Scotland by Dogs New Clothes

Topic:  Tips and Ideas | 1 Comment
Tags:  Edinburgh, UK

About the author

Jon has travelled widely across Europe, and is always keen to share the hidden gems he has discovered whilst on the road. He is a freelance writer specialising in travel writing, and his dream destination is Madagasgar.