
90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 501 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town worth booking?
90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town is a 1.5-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $54 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 501 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (501)
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- From
- $54 per person
Whisky 101! An introduction to the history, process, and tasting of our national drink - whisky - all done in 90 minutes in a unique underground space, recently uncovered, in the heart of the Old Town of Edinburgh. You will have exclusive access to this historical site, taste whiskies from each of the major whisky regions and hear some of the stories about how whisky came to have such a crucial role in our nations history.
What you get
About this experience
Whisky 101! An introduction to the history, process, and tasting of our national drink - whisky - all done in 90 minutes in a unique underground space, recently uncovered, in the heart of the Old Town of Edinburgh. You will have exclusive access to this historical site, taste whiskies from each of the major whisky regions and hear some of the stories about how whisky came to have such a crucial role in our nations history.
What's included
Included
- Exclusive access to The Lost Close
- Experienced Local Guide
- Alcoholic beverages
Not included
- Gratuities
- Additional tasting/souvenirs
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
The meeting point is OUTSIDE of John's Coffee House & Tavern. Just off the Royal Mile, behind St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square. We'll head underground from there.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The meeting point is OUTSIDE of John's Coffee House & Tavern. Just off the Royal Mile, behind St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square. We'll head underground from there.
Options you can book
Introduction Whisky - Week Ends (Fri-Sun)
Introduction Whisky - Week End
Introduction Whisky - Week Days (Mon-Thur)
Introduction Whisky - Week Day
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- The Lost Close - Events & Experiences
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 500 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
500 verified traveler reviews for 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Just Do It!
I’m on a solo holiday and not much of a drinker, so I hesitated a fair bit before committing to this experience. I am so happy I did it! For me, learning how to appreciate a drink of whisky was so helpful. Our host was very knowledgeable and did a great job explaining each bottle he brought out. A few logistical things got in the way of a full five stars. For example, the obvious delineation between the luxury experience patrons and the rest of us commoners was not handled very well. Simply by naming the tours something distinguishable that didn’t involve words that clearly delineated price paid, or having a slightly different entry time, could easily avoid this awkwardness. In addition, within the same tour, there were two tiers of pricing and each patron who paid the higher price had their name called out and then was handed their special whisky. I completely understand the reason, but I do wish there was a way to do it discreetly rather than highlighting it and creating an odd vibe.
Response from the operator: Hi Michelle, Thank you for joining us and for sharing such thoughtful feedback. We're delighted to hear that, even as someone new to whisky, you found the experience approachable and rewarding, and that your host helped bring the stories and flavours of each dram to life. We also appreciate your comments regarding the different tasting tiers and how these were presented during the experience. Creating a welcoming atmosphere for every guest is incredibly important to us, and we'll take your comments on board and action how we deliver our different levels of tastings. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Viator
Thoroughly enjoyed the...
Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. My wife booked this for me. Learned a lot. Present was very informative. Would recommend to anyone to do.
Response from the operator: Hi Sharon, Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We're delighted to hear that your wife chose the experience for you and that it proved to be such an enjoyable and memorable visit. Our storytellers are passionate about sharing the rich history and craftsmanship behind Scotland's national drink, so it's wonderful to know that their knowledge helped make the experience worthwhile. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to our underground vaults again soon. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Viator
Na
Amber is so knowledgeable, 10/10 would recommend. She’s so awesome, we loved her so much and she did such a wonderful job.
Response from the operator: Hi Jett, Thank you for your wonderful review. We're delighted to hear that Amber made such a lasting impression and helped make your visit so memorable. Our storytellers are passionate about sharing Scotland's whisky heritage in an engaging and approachable way, and it's fantastic to know Amber's knowledge and enthusiasm shone through. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to the vaults for another dram and a few more hidden stories. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Viator
Whisky tasting great day
I got this for my partner who is a whisky drinker im not but we both enjoyed it . we had ash who was very knowledgeable and knew her stuff very interesting details about the close. Found it very good would highly recommend
Response from the operator: Hi, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're delighted to hear that both you and your partner enjoyed the tasting, whether whisky enthusiasts or not. Ash's passion for Edinburgh's hidden history and Scotland's whisky heritage shines through in her storytelling, so it's wonderful to know she helped make your visit so memorable. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to our underground vaults for another journey beneath the city's streets. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Tripadvisor
Eleanor knows her stuff
Lovely tasting and history behind Scottish Whiskey by Eleanor. Super cool environment and she was super knowledgeable!
Response from the operator: Hi Lauri_T, Thank you for your kind review. We're delighted to hear that Eleanor helped make your visit so enjoyable, combining Scotland's rich whisky heritage with the fascinating stories hidden beneath Edinburgh's streets. Our underground vaults provide a truly unique setting, and it's wonderful to know Eleanor's knowledge and passion enhanced the experience. We hope to welcome you back soon for another memorable journey into Edinburgh's past. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 175
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town cost?
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Prices start at $54 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town take?
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Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 501 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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Around 175 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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Included: Exclusive access to The Lost Close; Experienced Local Guide; and Alcoholic beverages. Not included: Gratuities; and Additional tasting/souvenirs. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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The meeting point is OUTSIDE of John's Coffee House & Tavern. Just off the Royal Mile, behind St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square. We'll head underground from there. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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Across 501 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, food and drink, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Introduction Whisky - Week Ends (Fri-Sun), Introduction Whisky - Week Days (Mon-Thur). Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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