Step inside Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery in over 100 years for a one-hour guided tasting that spotlights innovative whisky-making techniques. Sample unique spirits as you learn about Holyrood Distillery’s blend of heritage and modern creativity.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Edinburgh’s distilling heritage dates back centuries, with Holyrood Distillery reviving the city’s single malt legacy after a 100-year hiatus.
Conservation
Holyrood Distillery commits to sustainable practices by minimizing waste and sourcing local materials wherever possible, supporting Edinburgh’s environmental goals.
Holyrood Distillery
Step inside Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery in over 100 years for a one-hour guided tasting that spotlights innovative whisky-making techniques. Sample unique spirits as you learn about Holyrood Distillery’s blend of heritage and modern creativity.
Holyrood Distillery is an independent distillery in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the city's first single malt distillery in over a century. The distillery produces Height of Arrows gin and single malt whiskies, and offers a range of guided tours, tastings and bar experiences tailored to both novices and enthusiasts.
Experiences include guided distillery tours, gin tastings, curated tasting flights, whisky masterclasses and special pairings such as the whisky and chocolate collaboration with The Chocolatarium. Visitors can explore the distillery floor, lab and cask room on tours that explain production methods, maturation and innovative flavour development.
Sample tastings are included with many experiences, and select offerings highlight exclusive or rare expressions, including single cask pours not available elsewhere. The Distillery Bar and cosy Lounge host tasting flights, welcome cocktails and hands-on sensory challenges that introduce botanicals, tasting techniques and cocktail making.
Holyrood also runs community-focused experiences such as EH Evenings offering complimentary guided tours and samples for residents alongside a paid bar. The distillery emphasises education and hospitality, guided by knowledgeable staff who present tasting notes, pairing guidance and the story behind each spirit. Practical details such as group sizes, booking requirements and accessibility are provided directly by the distillery at booking. Built around a clear commitment to craft, Holyrood Distillery blends Edinburgh whisky heritage with contemporary production to deliver memorable, flavour-led visits.
Guests are encouraged to book in advance for experiences, and the distillery offers a year-round range of tasting options—from quick highlights to in-depth masterclasses and private tastings for groups.
Location
Edinburgh, Scotland
Central city distillery
Historic First
First single malt in over a century
Revitalising whisky heritage
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Tasting flights to masterclasses
Flagship Spirit
Height of Arrows gin
Gin and single malt whisky onsite
Book a tour, tasting flight or masterclass at Holyrood Distillery to experience Height of Arrows gin and Edinburgh single malts firsthand.
Arrive Early
Ensure you arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour to check in smoothly and avoid missing any part of the experience.
Bring Valid ID
Guests who look under 25 must bring original photographic ID with holographic or ultraviolet features; photos are not accepted.
Accessible Experience
The tour route is fully wheelchair accessible with a distillery lift, making this experience inclusive for all visitors.
Mind the Age Limit
This tour is strictly for guests 18 and over; children are not permitted on this tasting-focused journey.
Valid Photo ID
Required to confirm age for alcohol tasting.
Comfortable Footwear
The tour involves short walks inside the distillery.
Light Layered Clothing
Prepare for fluctuating spring temperatures around Edinburgh.
spring
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, especially if combining the tour with city exploration.