Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting and Storytelling in a Historic Pub

Old Town, Edinburgh, Edinburgh



Immerse yourself in Scotland’s whisky and storytelling culture on our guided Scotch whisky tasting. Led by a local expert, enjoy Scotland's traditions, history and flavours in a historic cosy pub.

Whisky Tasting Experience at The Waverley Bar in Edinburgh

This guided whisky tasting suits whisky enthusiasts and curious visitors seeking an intimate cultural experience in one of Edinburgh's historic pubs.

Description

The Waverley Bar, established in 1891, features a horseshoe bar and brass fixtures with over 300 whiskies on its shelves. Its upstairs parlour, the private room for this tasting, once hosted early performances by Billy Connolly and Gerry Rafferty, reflecting its rich folk music history.

Over two hours, a local whisky expert guides you through four single malt Scotch whiskies representing Scotland's major whisky regions. Tastings range from the floral Lowlands to the peaty Islands, accompanied by stories about each distillery, region, and the people who shaped Scotland’s whisky culture.

This is a focused cultural experience, not a pub crawl, offering an unhurried look into Scotland’s national drink and Edinburgh’s historical influence on it.

Highlights

  • Taste four premium single malt Scotch whiskies
  • Learn about whisky origins, craft, and maturation from grain to glass
  • Hear stories of the men and women who shaped the whisky industry
  • Enjoy expert guidance in a cozy, intimate setting
  • Experience the atmosphere of one of Edinburgh's most historic folk pubs

Includes

  • Four drams of hand-selected single malt Scotch whisky
  • Expert guided tasting with detailed notes on each dram
  • Stories behind each whisky, including distillery, region, and culture
  • Exclusive use of the Waverley Bar's upstairs parlour
  • Two full hours with a local whisky expert

Excludes

  • Food
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • The experience takes place in a private room above a historic pub established in 1891
  • Starts at 15:30, ideal for an afternoon tasting before dinner
  • Non-whisky drinkers are welcome; soft drink alternatives available on request
  • Minimum age 18; ID may be required
  • Stag and hen parties are not permitted on the public tasting; contact to arrange a private tasting

Cancellation Policy

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

Book in advance to secure your place. Arrive on time and bring valid identification to confirm age.

Frequently Asked Questions

The experience includes a guided tasting of four single malt Scotch whiskies in the private upstairs parlour of The Waverley Bar.
The Waverley Bar is located in Edinburgh and dates back to 1891, featuring a historic horseshoe bar and brass fixtures.
A local whisky expert guides the tasting session, sharing insights into the whiskies and Scotch whisky culture.
The whisky tasting experience lasts approximately two hours.
No prior whisky knowledge is required; the tasting is suitable for both enthusiasts and curious visitors.
Yes, the experience includes storytelling about the pub’s history and Edinburgh’s folk music scene.
Food options are not included in the tasting; check with The Waverley Bar for any available snacks or dining.
Check the venue’s website for current schedules and availability to find a suitable time.
Yes, the private parlour can accommodate small groups interested in a shared whisky tasting.
Advance booking is recommended to secure your place for the whisky tasting session.

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Edinburgh is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.