Edinburgh: Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery

Edinburgh: Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery

If you’re wandering through Edinburgh and have a taste for spirits, a visit to 56 North Distillery offers a wonderfully engaging experience. For just $26 per person and lasting around 1.5 hours, this tour combines learning, tasting, and a bit of Scottish hospitality. You’ll step into Scotland’s oldest dedicated gin bar, where over 300 different gins line the shelves, and emerge with a much deeper appreciation for how award-winning South Loch Gins are crafted.

What we especially love about this experience is the chance to see the inner workings of a small-scale distillery and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere fostered by knowledgeable guides. The chance to sample not only three distinct gins but also enjoy a cocktail made with South Loch Gin offers a well-rounded tasting adventure. One potential caveat is that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or children under 18, but for adults interested in spirits and Scottish craft, this is a real treat.

If you’re curious about gin production or simply love discovering unique local drinks, this experience fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or new to the spirit, you’ll find plenty of interesting insights and flavors to enjoy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish experience: Visit Scotland’s oldest gin bar and see the distillery in action.
• Educational and fun: Guides like James and Gary make learning about gin engaging and accessible.
• Excellent value: For $26, you get multiple tastings, a cocktail, and a behind-the-scenes look.
• High praise from travelers: With a 4.8/5 rating from over 330 reviews, it’s clear this tour hits the right notes.
• Perfect for enthusiasts: Ideal for those interested in spirits, history, or Scottish culture.
• Limited accessibility: Not suited for mobility-impaired or underage visitors.

An In-Depth Look at Edinburgh’s Premier Gin Tasting Experience

Location and Duration

The tour begins inside 56 North Distillery in central Edinburgh, a prime location that’s easy to access for most travelers. The walk-in experience involves a 1.5-hour guided session, which is a reasonable length to enjoy without feeling rushed, yet long enough to absorb quite a bit about gin.

Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability beforehand. The activity concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient if you want to explore other nearby sights afterward.

The Setting: Scotland’s Oldest Gin Bar

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Scotland’s oldest dedicated gin bar, where the shelves are lined with over 300 gins from around the world. This is a visual feast for gin lovers. The bar itself is praised for its cozy, holiday-decorated ambiance, creating a welcoming environment that sets the stage for a relaxed tasting. You’re welcomed with a South Loch Gin and Fever-Tree tonic, giving you an immediate taste of what the distillery’s about.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning About Gin Production

A significant part of the experience involves understanding how gin is made, from botanicals to bottling. Guides like James and Gary are lauded for their knowledge and engaging demeanor. One review mentions that their depth of detail combined with humor makes learning about gin fun and approachable, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

The presentation covers everything you’ve ever wanted to know about gin, including the different botanicals used, the distillation process, and the research and development behind each spirit. Watching the copper stills and seeing the inner workings of the distillery offers a rare glimpse into the craft.

Tasting the Gins

After the intro, the tour continues with sampling three distinct gins, each with tasting notes and insights into what makes them special. Several reviews praise the quality and flavor diversity of South Loch Gin, which is crafted on-site. One reviewer noted, “The samples and full drinks at the start and finish were fabulous and very good value for the price.”

Along With the tastings, you get a South Loch Gin cocktail made by the bar team. This combines the opportunity to taste the spirit in a mixed drink, which many find enhances the experience. As one guest noted, “The gin and tonic was delicious, as well as all three tasters and the last drink at the bar.”

Atmosphere and Guides

A common theme in reviews is the friendly, humorous guides who make the learning enjoyable. For example, George is praised for his friendly and professional manner, making all participants feel comfortable. The warmth and enthusiasm from staff help turn a simple tasting into a memorable outing.

The Cost and Value

At $26 per person, this tour is considered excellent value. For this price, you get multiple gins, a cocktail, and a guided tour—a comprehensive package for those keen on spirits. Several reviewers comment on the generous tastings and engaging presentation, emphasizing that it’s more than just a tasting; it’s a learning experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for adults who enjoy spirits and want to learn more about gin’s craft. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic Scottish experience. If you’re a gin novice, guides make it accessible; if you’re a connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the depth of information and the quality of the spirits.

Final Thoughts

The Edinburgh: Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery offers a delightful blend of education, tastings, and Scottish charm, all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for those who want a hands-on look at how gin is made, paired with the chance to taste some exceptional spirits in one of Edinburgh’s most historic and atmospheric venues.

The friendly guides, excellent value, and intimate setting make this a memorable experience. It’s especially recommended for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone seeking a uniquely Scottish outing that combines culture with a bit of fun. If you love the idea of tasting, learning, and enjoying in a cozy setting, this tour deserves a spot on your Edinburgh itinerary.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years. It’s designed for adults, given the spirit tastings and alcohol content.

How long does the tour last?
The guided gin tasting lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
You get one South Loch Gin and Fever-Tree tonic, three gin samples, and one South Loch Gin cocktail. Additional value comes from the guided insights and the atmosphere.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside 56 North Distillery and ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to explore other nearby sights afterward.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s best to check availability and book ahead. You can reserve now and pay later if you prefer flexibility.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

In sum, this tour combines local craftsmanship, engaging guides, and good value into a memorable Edinburgh experience. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply curious, it offers a taste of Scotland’s spirits scene with a friendly, approachable touch.

You can check availability for your dates here: