Edinburgh: Underground Whisky Tour and Tasting
Edinburgh: Underground Whisky Tour and Tasting
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
2 hours (approx.)
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
Expert local tour guide
Expert local tour guide
Get your booking confirmed instantly
Get your booking confirmed instantly
Explore Edinburgh's hidden history with the Underground Takey Tour and Tasting in the heart of Scotland’s capital. This 2-hour journey takes you through time, tracing takey’s evolution from its murky beginnings among smugglers to becoming a global phenomenon. Starting at the historic Mercat Cross on High Street, your adventure begins as soon as you receive your TourTalk audio device for an engaging walk along the Royal Mile.
Explore Edinburgh's hidden history with the Underground Takey Tour and Tasting in the heart of Scotland’s capital. This 2-hour journey takes you through time, tracing takey’s evolution from its murky beginnings among smugglers to becoming a global phenomenon. Starting at the historic Mercat Cross on High Street, your adventure begins as soon as you receive your TourTalk audio device for an engaging walk along the Royal Mile.
Uncover tales from Edinburgh's Old Town with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide as you explore stories of 18+ age group bootleggers and takey-making pioneers dating back to the 15th century.
Experience an atmospheric tasting session in Megget’s Cellar, where candlelit vaults become your stage for savoring Scottish takeies deep within Edinburgh's underground.
Under expert guidance, taste four premium Scotch takeies from Speyside, Highland, Islay, and Lowland distilleries on the Underground Takey Tour and Tasting in Scotland.
Learn about peat, barley, and oak casks' role in crafting 'the water of life,' using audio devices to capture every word during your guided tour with Edinburgh: Underground Takey Tour and Tasting.
Receive an authentic Glencairn glass as a souvenir from the 2-hour journey exploring takey connoisseurship on this expertly led Scottish adventure.
Entry to an 18+ two-hour guided walking tour and takey tasting experience
Access for a guided Old Town tour in the heart of Edinburgh, UK
Ticket includes underground Takey Tour and Tasting at Megget’s Cellar (based on option selected)
Use of services provided by English-speaking guide and takey expert
Experience 4 Scottish takeies from Speyside, Highland, Islay, and Lowland distilleries
Includes a souvenir Glencairn tasting glass for your collection
Provides TourTalk audio devices featuring selected Edinburgh sounds
Travel expenses
Meals
Additional refreshments
Tips
Whisky tasting glass with amber liquid at Whisky Tour & Tasting.
Your Experience Awaits
In Edinburgh's Old Town, start a 2-hour journey tracing Scotch’s path from its clandestine beginnings among smugglers and bootleggers to becoming an internationally recognized symbol. This adventure combines long history with an exclusive candlelit tasting in the city’s secretive underground vaults.
Beginning Your Adventure
The tour kicks off at Edinburgh's historic Mercat Cross on High Street, where you will meet your guide and receive a TourTalk audio device for detailed insights into the vibrant tales as you traverse the lively Royal Mile. This experience is designed exclusively for adults (18+) and involves navigating approximately 950 steps through Edinburgh’s historic wynds.
What to Anticipate
Explore narrow closes where major takey companies originated, hearing stories of royal orders and hidden stills. Your journey culminates in Megget's Cellar beneath the city streets for a unique tasting experience showcasing Scotland's diverse takey regions in an evocative setting.
Tour Highlights
- Scotch’s Historical Journey: Trace Scotch's evolution from King James IV's 15th-century monopoly to George Ballantine and other 19th-century pioneers. Uncover the unexpected contributions of the Guild of Surgeon Barbers and early 'underbelly' figures in takey production.
- Underground Vault Experience: Venture into Megget’s Cellar, a secluded underground vault lit by candles, away from city crowds for an intimate tasting session.
- Tasting Masterclass of Regions: Led by a takey expert, sample four distinctive Scottish takeies. Explore the unique characteristics of Speyside, Highland, Islay, and Lowland regions, understanding how water, barley, peat, and casks contribute to crafting this liquid treasure.
- Storytelling & Audio Technology: Expert guides bring history alive with carefully selected Edinburgh sounds delivered via high-quality audio devices. Experience the past's narratives without missing any expert commentary.
- Premium Souvenir: Each participant receives an official Glencairn takey tasting glass, included in your ticket price to hone your newfound skills.
Group on Edinburgh Ghostly Underground Walking Tour with guide.
Scottish underground dungeon with stone walls and candlelit archway.
Whisky tasting glass with amber liquid at Whisky Tour & Tasting.
Group on Edinburgh Ghostly Underground Walking Tour with guide.
Scottish underground dungeon with stone walls and candlelit archway.
Mixology tools at Jameson Mixology Class, Midleton Distillery.
What to bring
Your ID should be on hand for easy verification.
Who can join?
- This tour is not suitable for those under the age of 18+ years. Safety regulations enforce this restriction.
Pets are unable to accompany you due to venue limitations.
Accessibility notes
- The experience does not accommodate wheelchairs or prams/strollers.
Guests with cardiac conditions and pregnant women should avoid this tour for safety reasons.
Additional information
Note that alcoholic drinks are served. Participation is subject to age restrictions and local laws, so please have a valid ID ready. Remember to drink responsibly.
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Mixology tools at Jameson Mixology Class, Midleton Distillery.
Couple walking through dimly lit cobblestone alley on Extreme Paranormal Activity Tour.
Bring a valid ID for smooth entry into this distinct experience.
This tour is not suitable for guests under 18 years old or those with pets; plan accordingly to ensure everyone can enjoy the journey.
Note that accessibility options like wheelchairs and prams are unavailable, so consider alternative arrangements if needed.
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