Edinburgh: Holyrood Distillery Whisky & Gin Tour

Edinburgh



Enjoy a guided tour of the Holyrood distillery in Edinburgh. Learn how gin and whisky are made, and explore the innovative craft production methods.

Holyrood Distillery Tour in Edinburgh

This fully guided tour at Holyrood Distillery in Edinburgh suits whisky and gin enthusiasts interested in modern production and heritage.

Highlights

  • Fully guided tour of the whisky and gin production areas
  • Learn about Edinburgh’s brewing and distilling heritage
  • Tastings of gin, whisky, and a welcome cocktail

Description

Holyrood Distillery is a modern distillery in historic Edinburgh, dedicated to innovative whisky and gin production. The tour begins in the Lounge, where your guide introduces the city’s brewing and distilling heritage. While enjoying a seasonal cocktail, learn how Holyrood is the first single malt whisky producer in Edinburgh in nearly 100 years and how it is redefining scotch production.

Next, visit the Spirits Lab and Gin Distillery. Discover how the distillers create and refine the award-winning Height of Arrows Gin. Sample the classic gin expression and learn about their experimental approach to flavour development using only three key ingredients.

Moving on to the whisky distillery floor, observe washbacks foaming and copper stills operating. Your guide will explain the stages of scotch whisky production, including the use of heritage malts, specialty malts, and alternative yeasts. Learn how Holyrood creates distinct flavours in their single malts.

The tour ends in the Cask Room, reminiscent of a traditional dunnage warehouse. Here you will enjoy a tutored tasting of single malt whisky while exploring oak barrel selection and whisky ageing techniques. Gain insight into the scotch whisky industry and the distillery’s unique position, with myth-busting information on flavour creation and prestige.

Includes

  • Fully guided tour of the distillery
  • Welcome cocktail
  • Samples of award-winning gin and whisky
  • Dram of Single Cask whisky at the bar (if selected)

Important Information

  • Tours are conducted only in English; no translations or audio guides available

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book in advance to secure your preferred time. Wear comfortable footwear as the tour involves standing and walking. The best time to visit is mid-afternoon for a relaxed tasting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a fully guided walkthrough of the whisky and gin production areas, an introduction to Edinburgh’s brewing and distilling heritage, and tastings of gin, whisky, and a welcome cocktail.
Holyrood Distillery is located in Edinburgh, near the historic Royal Mile area.
Tour durations vary, so it’s best to check the website for current timings.
Yes, the tour includes tastings of both whisky and gin, as well as a welcome cocktail.
Yes, the tour is designed for whisky and gin enthusiasts of all levels, including beginners interested in Edinburgh’s distilling heritage.
Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot as tours can fill up, but check the website for availability.
Participants must be of legal drinking age in Scotland, usually 18 or over, to join the tour and tastings.
Accessibility details should be confirmed on the distillery’s website as facilities may vary.
Holyrood Distillery is a modern establishment committed to innovative whisky and gin production while celebrating Edinburgh’s brewing heritage.
Yes, bottles of Holyrood whisky and gin are typically available for purchase on-site after the tour.

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