The Rise of Whisky Distilleries in Edinburgh
If you’re wondering, “Where can I find whisky distilleries in Edinburgh?” or “How can I learn about Scottish whisky production?”, you’re in for a treat. While the Highlands have historically dominated Scotch whisky production, recent years have seen a revival of distilleries in urban areas like Edinburgh. Whisky distilleries in Edinburgh now offer the perfect blend of convenience and authenticity for whisky enthusiasts.
Top Places to Experience Whisky in Edinburgh
Holyrood Distillery: Tradition Meets Innovation
Located just a short walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town, Holyrood Distillery opened its doors in 2019.
Until the early 20th century, Edinburgh had been one of the world’s leading centres for whisky production. However, Prohibition in the United States had such a severe impact on the city that it led to the closure of all local single malt distilleries.
Today, Holyrood Distillery revives that proud tradition—while embracing the innovations shaping the future of Scotch whisky.
This Edinburgh whisky distillery offers guided tours every day at various times, along with tastings of whisky, gin and liqueurs. During the high season, they also open a rooftop bar where you can enjoy food and drinks—it’s well worth a visit after your whisky experience and easily rivals any food tour.
Port of Leith Distillery: Whisky Innovation in Edinburgh
Opened in 2023, the Port of Leith Distillery is Scotland’s first vertical distillery, located in the historic port area of Leith. With its striking nine-story design, it offers guided tours, whisky tastings, and a rooftop bar boasting stunning views of Edinburgh and the waterfront.
The Scotch Whisky Experience: A Whisky Museum
This might be the most centrally located whisky-related activity if you’re staying in Edinburgh, as it’s right next to Edinburgh Castle. The Scotch Whisky Experience is a museum where you’ll learn how whisky is made, accompanied by a guided tasting.
A couple of years ago, the venue was renovated to include an audiovisual experience that has greatly enhanced the visit. But without a doubt, the highlight of the Scotch Whisky Experience is its whisky collection. According to their own claim, it’s the largest in the world, and just stepping into that vast room filled with bottles of the famous “water of life” is worth the price of admission.
The site also features a bar and the renowned Amber Restaurant—considered one of the best in the city. This whisky museum has long been a top alternative for whisky lovers who don’t continue their journey into the Scottish Highlands, especially given the limited number of distilleries in Edinburgh. Its collection of bottles is broad and diverse, and the introduction to the global history of whisky is both fascinating and informative.
Johnnie Walker Princes Street: Whisky Meets Elegance
In 2019, construction began on the Johnnie Walker visitor centre on Edinburgh’s Princes Street. This venue offers unique immersive experiences, personalised tastings, cocktail-making workshops and rooftop terraces with spectacular views. It’s a must-visit—not only for whisky enthusiasts, but for any traveller looking to enjoy one of Edinburgh’s most innovative attractions.
According to the project description, the visitor centre will feature a theatre space, a rooftop bar with views of Edinburgh Castle, and of course, an exclusive shop.
We don’t yet know the full schedule or which tours Johnnie Walker will be offering, but they do plan to make them available in several languages. And just to clarify—it’s not a distillery, but a visitor centre dedicated to the brand.
Find out more on their official website.
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society: A Unique Experience
The Scotch Malt Whiskey Society was founded in 1983 with the aim of discovering unconventional whiskies and offering them to its members. Today, the society has a global presence, and even if you’re not a member, you can still enjoy one of their tastings—often paired with a delicious Scottish dinner—at their venue in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Find out more at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Glenkinchie Distillery
If you’re looking for a distillery that produces malts for Johnnie Walker, then Glenkinchie is the place to visit. Located about 25 km from Edinburgh, this distillery sits in a rural setting that fully immerses you in the traditional distillery atmosphere—in other words, a true whisky experience.
Glenkinchie recently underwent a major renovation to modernise its facilities and become part of the new Johnnie Walker journey—a tour across the single malt distilleries that are part of the brand, aimed at attracting whisky enthusiasts from around the world.
If you don’t have your own transport, don’t worry—Glenkinchie offers a minibus service departing from central Edinburgh. Don’t miss the chance to discover one of Scotland’s great whisky distilleries.
A Whisky Journey Beyond Edinburgh
If you’re open to venturing a bit further, Glasgow’s Clydeside Distillery offers a similar urban model to Holyrood Distillery. In the past, the city’s port was the most important shipyard in the UK, and from its docks, whisky was shipped from Scotland to the rest of the world. However, much of that was lost with the arrival of the 20th century and the rise of cheaper shipyards in other countries.
In 2017, Glasgow brought whisky distilling back, and right the heart of the city on the banks of the River Clyde. And you’re in luck—2021 marked the release of Clydeside Distillery’s very first single malt, a golden opportunity to discover how Glaswegians do things when it comes to whisky.
The distillery offers three types of guided tours with whisky tastings. You can choose the classic tour, where you’ll learn all about the whisky-making process and sample three single malts from different regions of Scotland—Highlands, Lowlands and Islay. There’s also a whisky and chocolate tasting option, or you can go for a tour led by the distillery’s director himself. Private tours are also available upon request.
It’s about a 40-minute walk from central Buchanan Street, and I highly recommend doing it on foot—the riverside walk is one of Glasgow’s most enjoyable.
Bow Bar: A Local Favourite for Whisky Enthusiasts
For a more traditional and authentic whisky experience, visit The Bow Bar on Victoria Street. This charming, classic pub is renowned for its impressive selection of over 300 whiskies, ranging from rare single malts to popular Scottish blends. Unlike larger establishments, The Bow Bar offers a cosy, relaxed atmosphere where locals and visitors can enjoy their “water of life” in peace.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or just starting your journey into Scottish whisky, the knowledgeable staff at The Bow Bar are always on hand to help you choose the perfect dram. With no music or distractions, it’s the ideal place to savour the rich flavours of Scotland’s whisky heritage.
Exploring the Flavours of Scottish Whisky
Scottish whisky is as diverse as the regions it comes from, each offering unique characteristics:
- Highlands: Known for its versatility, whiskies here range from light and floral to rich and peaty.
- Lowlands: These whiskies are typically lighter, with subtle, grassy, and citrusy notes – perfect for beginners.
- Speyside: Famous for its sweet and fruity flavours, often with hints of apple, honey, and vanilla.
- Islay: Bold and smoky, Islay whiskies are loved for their peaty, maritime character.
- Campbeltown: Rare and distinct, these whiskies combine a salty tang with complex flavours of toffee and spice.
Understanding these regional differences enhances your appreciation of Scotch whisky and helps you find your perfect dram.
Discover Scottish Whisky in Edinburgh
Exploring whisky distilleries in Edinburgh lets you dive into Scotland’s rich whisky tradition without leaving the city. Whether it’s the history of Holyrood Distillery, the immersive experience at the Scotch Whisky Experience, or the modern luxury of Johnnie Walker Princes Street, there’s something for every whisky lover in Edinburgh. Scottish whisky is not just a drink – it’s a journey into the heart of Scotland’s culture and heritage.