Edinburgh Self-Guided Walking Tour of Whisky
Stepping out in Edinburgh whisky lovers are spoilt for choice of places that serve hundreds of different Scottish whiskies, known locally as a dram or a wee dram (small whisky). Below is a collection of some of the places we would recommend to experience Edinburgh hospitality and some more obscure whisky, while enjoying the sites of the city.
Starting on Queen Street in the New Town, noted as the longest parade of 18th century architecture in Edinburgh and only 15-20 minute’s walk from The Haymarket Hotel you’ll find Kaleidoscope Bar.
Kaleidoscope Bar – Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Within this refined Georgian townhouse is The Malk Whisky Societies non-member bar The Kaleidoscope Bar. Boasting over 500 single cask, single malts, and cask cocktails from both Scotland and worldwide. Named as Icons of Whisky Global Bar of the Year in Whisky Magazine’s World Whisky Awards 2022. Heading into the city and cutting across St Andrews Square you’ll pass the luxury shopping street of Multrees Walk and Harvey Nichols. Enjoy the view across to the Old Town, and head to the top of Princes Street and the grand Balmoral Hotel.
Scotch Whisky Bar – Balmoral Hotel
Over 500 unique varieties of whiskey securely housed within this beautiful 1902 renaissance inspired hotel, dominating Princes St. This vast collection is one of the largest in Edinburgh. Spy the clocktower which is set three minutes fast so commuters won’t miss their train. Crossing over North Bridge and starting at the foot of the Royal Mile you’ll stumble upon the 200-year-old Tollbooth Tavern.
Built in 1591 as part of the original Canongate, the tollbooth was used to collect tolls from travellers from outside the city walls, entering the Burgh through the Canongate. Converted to a tavern in 1820, the small characteristic exterior hides a spacious bar and dining area. Ask at the bar for the whiskey menu which has been carefully curated and helpfully divided by Scottish location. The five whiskey regions of Scotland- Campbeltown, Highlands and Islands, Islay, Lowlands, and Speyside – all providing a different and distinctive personality. Heading up the Royal Mile towards the castle past kilt makers, wool merchants, and souvenir shops you’ll come to The Cannons’ Gait Pub. King David I founded a monastery at Hollyrood in 1128 and the road followed by the Canons as they moved between the monastery and the city walls became known as the Canons’ way or the Canons’ Gait.
In the 1500s Mary Queen of Scots’ French tailor Jaques De Soulis lived here. Now offering a cozy and relaxed atmosphere to stop and enjoy a dram. Also available are whisky flights with a range of whiskies to try, curated by flavour. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will gladly talk whisky all day. Head back out along the Royal Mile and take a right down Cockburn Street, viewing the architecture and numerous small specialty shops. The 12 storey City Chambers building dates from 1761 illustrating Edinburgh’s fondness of high-rise buildings as far back as the 18th century. Step through a close, a 16th century street, Warriston Close and Advocates Close both being particularly interesting.
Hidden on Advocate’s close and within an old Victorian pump house are 300+ whiskeys. This impressive collection adorns the back of the bar in this modern yet rustic restaurant, it’s also possible sit outside on the terrace in nice weather. Serving whisky flights and whisky aged in sherry casks as well as whisky-based cocktails, great steaks and traditional fish and chips. Taking the News Steps all the way to the top, enjoy the view back towards Princes Street, the Scott Monument, and the Princes Street Gardens. Heading towards North Bank Street you’ll pass Dram Craft Company. This small independent maker gives retired whisky barrels a new life by handcrafting them into household items, such as coffee tables, bottle holders and Christmas trees.
Boasting a great view out to The Mound and Princes Street, this multi award winning restaurant, bar and whisky shop hosts daily whisky tastings with or without cheese and chocolate accompaniments. The bare stone bar is home to 300 varieties of whisky to sample.
If you can still manage a few more drams after all these then see our honourable mentions. Jolly Judge with its real log fire and wood beam ceiling, Cloisters Bar has a relaxed atmosphere within a converted church, The Black Cat on beautiful Rose Street with live music and cozy traditional atmosphere. Pull up a barstool and ask the bartender to make a personalised whisky flight. Just tell them what you like, and they’ll choose three for you. Loch Fyne Whiskies, a friendly independent whisky shop including exclusive bottlings not found anywhere else, tastings available.
