Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour With All Food & Drinks Included

A Tasty Stroll Through Edinburgh’s Old Town

If you’re craving a culinary adventure that combines historic sights with Scottish flavors, the Taste of Edinburgh Food Tour offers a well-rounded experience. Starting at the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral at 1 pm, this four-hour journey takes you through the bustling Royal Mile and beyond, with stops at renowned eateries, cheesemongers, and whisky bars. Priced at about $130 per person, it’s a lively, manageable way to explore the city’s food scene while soaking up the sights.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the variety of tasting stops—from cheese to whisky—and the engaging stories shared by guides like Wullie, who are passionate about Edinburgh’s history and food. Also, the fact that all food and drinks are included means you can truly relax and indulge without worry about extra costs or hidden fees.

However, one consideration is that this tour is relatively intimate, with a maximum of ten travelers, which is great for personalized attention but might feel a little crowded during peak times. If you’re someone who enjoys small-group experiences and authentic local flavors, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for foodies, history buffs, or travelers eager for a comprehensive taste of Edinburgh’s culinary culture.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish Flavors: The tour includes local specialties like cheese, haggis, trout, and whisky.
• All-Inclusive: No hidden costs—food and drinks are covered throughout the tour.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts like Wullie bring Edinburgh’s stories and cuisine to life.
• Historic and Vibrant Locations: Stops include St Giles’ Cathedral, Victoria Street, and the Royal Mile.
• Short but Rich: Four hours pass quickly, packed with tastings, stories, and scenic views.
• Small Group: Limited to ten travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Culinary Heart

The Taste of Edinburgh Food Tour offers a rare chance to combine sightseeing with tasting some of Scotland’s most cherished eats. Starting on High Street at the historic St Giles’ Cathedral, you’ll feel the city’s energy right away. The guide, likely someone like Wullie based on glowing reviews, will set the tone with engaging stories about Edinburgh’s past and present.

The tour’s route takes you down Victoria Street—famous for its colorful shops and lively atmosphere—before heading along the Royal Mile. Along the way, you’ll stop at several carefully selected venues. Depending on the day, these might include Cannonball on Castle Hill, Mellis Cheesemongers, The Whiskey Trail, or Arcade on Cockburn Street.

What makes this journey special is the mix of cultural and culinary highlights. For instance, at Cannonball, you could sample traditional Haggis or locally caught trout, paired with wine—an excellent way to taste Scotland’s land and sea produce. At Mellis Cheesemongers, sampling local cheeses and Scotch eggs offers a peek into Scottish dairy and snack traditions.

The whisky and gin tasting at The Whiskey Trail is another highlight, allowing you to learn about Scotland’s distilling process from a local expert while sampling around three drinks of your choosing. This part of the tour resonates with the positive reviews mentioning the “excellent wine selection” and conversations about distillation techniques.

The final stop at Arcade on Cockburn Street wraps up your tasting journey, offering a relaxed spot to reflect and enjoy your surroundings. Throughout, the tour is designed to be leisurely yet engaging, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and savor the flavors.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

St Giles’ Cathedral:
Your journey begins here, a stunning Gothic church with a storied past. Meeting point for the tour, it offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s religious and architectural history. The guide’s introduction sets the tone for an enjoyable afternoon.

Victoria Street and Royal Mile:
As you walk these historic streets, you’ll see the vibrant heart of Edinburgh. Victoria Street’s colorful shops and lively cafes make for a perfect photo backdrop, while the Royal Mile’s cobbled charm and historic landmarks add depth to your experience.

Cannonball on Castle Hill:
Here, you might be treated to a plate of Haggis, a Scottish delicacy, or locally caught trout, both paired with a glass of wine. The menu is flexible, with options for different tastes, which is helpful if you’re not a fan of traditional Haggis.

Mellis Cheesemongers:
This shop is a highlight for cheese lovers, offering a selection of local cheeses and Scotch eggs. The guide often shares stories about Scottish dairy traditions, making each tasting more meaningful.

The Whiskey Trail:
Talking to a local distiller or expert, you’ll get insights into Scotland’s whisky-making heritage. Sampling around three whiskeys or gins of your choice is a chance to see how Scotland’s spirits are crafted and why they’re world-renowned.

Arcade on Cockburn Street:
The final stop is a lively, cozy venue where you can relax with a drink or snack, and reflect on your culinary journey through Edinburgh.

The Value of the Experience

For $130, what you’re really paying for is a well-curated tour that combines local flavors, cultural insights, and scenic strolls. All food and drink are included, which means you don’t need to worry about budgeting for extras. Considering the quality of tastings—cheese, whisky, trout, haggis—and the expert guidance, this experience is quite good value.

The reviews sing praises about the guide’s extensive knowledge and how they make the history and food stories come alive. One reviewer states, “We learned so much more about the city and all the wonderful food and drink it has to offer,” which sums up the educational and flavorful aspects neatly.

Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and tailored conversations. The opportunity to taste local specialties in authentic venues makes this tour a memorable cultural and culinary highlight.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 111 days ahead, especially in peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The route covers historic streets and cobbled paths.
• Pace yourself: With multiple stops and tastings, pace your palate and stay hydrated.
• All food and drinks included: Come hungry! The tour is designed as a full tasting session.
• Meet at St Giles’: It’s central and easy to find, just arrive on time.
• Group size: Limited to 10 travelers, so expect a cozy, personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for food lovers wanting to sample authentic Scottish fare in a social setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy engaging stories about local traditions and history. If you appreciate small-group experiences and want to avoid large, impersonal tours, you’ll find this a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Travelurs interested in whisky or cheese will especially value the in-depth tastings and expert insights.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting, rather than just a walk or just a meal. Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or are a seasoned local, this tour offers fresh insights and flavors that will linger long after.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable yet comprehensive taste of Edinburgh’s food scene.

Are all food and drinks included?
Yes, all food and drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—are included, allowing you to relax and enjoy without extra costs.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at St Giles’ Cathedral on High Street at 1 pm.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While options are available, it’s best to contact the provider directly to discuss specific needs. The menu includes traditional Scottish options like haggis and trout, but accommodations can often be made.

What is the group size?
The maximum is ten travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering some peace of mind.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point at St Giles’ Cathedral is central and easily accessible via public transit.

Final Thoughts

The Taste of Edinburgh Food Tour offers a delightful blend of culinary sampling, storytelling, and sightseeing in the city’s historic Old Town. Its all-inclusive approach makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to indulge in local flavors without extra fuss. The knowledgeable guides, like Wullie, bring Edinburgh’s food traditions and history to life, making this more than just a tasting—it’s a culture.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and educational experience that balances gastronomy and storytelling, this tour will serve you well. Perfect for those eager to explore Edinburgh’s taste profile while learning about its history, it’s an experience that will leave your palate and memory both satisfied.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or looking for a unique way to get to know the city, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary—especially if you love good food, good stories, and good company.