Descend beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile for a one-hour guided tasting that traces gin from early distillates to modern Scottish craft spirits. Held in The Lost Close—an underground space recovered from the city’s Old Town—you’ll sample four gins and mix to taste while learning local history.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the Royal Mile and descend: stone cool underfoot, the city’s chatter muffled above as a guide opens a door to a space lost for decades. Lantern light slips across carved vaults and the sharp pine-scent of juniper arrives before the first pour. The Lost Close feels like a place that kept its stories to itself—walls that once handled ledgers and prisoners now hold glass and conversation.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Light: mostly standing and short stair descents; suitable for most adults
Wildlife
History
The Lost Close occupies a space that was Edinburgh’s first purpose-built bank, later used as a prison and only rediscovered during recent renovation work; its reuse for tastings links commerce, punishment, and preservation.
Conservation
Operators often emphasize responsible consumption and heritage conservation; minimize waste by using provided mixers and follow staff guidance to protect the historic fabric.
Reserve your spot on the Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring government photo ID
This experience is strictly for adults; bring valid ID to be admitted.
Arrive 10 minutes early
Meet upstairs before you’re led below—late arrivals may miss the start as groups are small.
Mind uneven steps and low ceilings
The Lost Close has stone steps and narrow passages—wear stable shoes and watch your head.
Pace your tastings and hydrate
Four samples plus mixers are offered—sip slowly and use water provided between pours.
Government photo ID
Required for entry—this experience is adults-only.
Sturdy walking shoes
Cobbled streets and stone steps make firm footwear helpful.
Small bottle of water
Hydration between tastings helps pacing and comfort.
Weatherproof layer
Edinburgh weather changes quickly en route to the venue, so bring a light jacket.
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