Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 77 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr worth booking?
Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr is a 1-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $37 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 77 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 78 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (77)
- Duration
- 1 hours
- From
- $37 per person
More than just a gin tasting - this is about the Evolution of Gin! On this experience you'll follow the journey of gin from its origins to the modern spirit we know and love. Your guide will lead you through the different flavours, explain the history of gin, and suggest which mixers to add to the (4) gins you will sample - the mixing is left up to you so you can have it as strong or as delicate as you'd like! Held in The Lost Close, this is an area of Edinburgh that was buried underneath the old prison building until it was uncovered in 2018, a space that only we have access to, and there's nowhere else like it in the city!
What you get
About this experience
More than just a gin tasting - this is about the Evolution of Gin! On this experience you'll follow the journey of gin from its origins to the modern spirit we know and love. Your guide will lead you through the different flavours, explain the history of gin, and suggest which mixers to add to the (4) gins you will sample - the mixing is left up to you so you can have it as strong or as delicate as you'd like! Held in The Lost Close, this is an area of Edinburgh that was buried underneath the old prison building until it was uncovered in 2018, a space that only we have access to, and there's nowhere else like it in the city!
What's included
Included
- Exclusive Access to The Lost Close
- Carbonated beverages
- Alcoholic beverages
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.
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 10 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
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- The tour is strictly for adults. Children under 18 and infants under 1 year old cannot be accommodated.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 77 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
77 verified traveler reviews for Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
We learned, sipped and laughed.
A great activity for gin lovers! We learned, sipped and laughed. Thank you for a memorable experience.
Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you for your lovely review. We're delighted to hear that the Evolution of Gin Tasting was such a memorable experience and that it offered the perfect blend of learning, laughter, and great gin. Sharing the stories behind Scotland’s gin heritage in our unique underground setting is something we're passionate about, so it's wonderful to know you enjoyed the journey. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another taste of Edinburgh’s hidden history. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Tripadvisor
Gin tasting in amazing location
What a fab experience. Haley was an excellent guide & she really knew her stuff. Was really interesting to hear the history of gin in an amazing location. Well worth a visit !
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review. We're delighted to hear you enjoyed exploring the fascinating story of gin in our hidden underground space, and that Haley's knowledge and enthusiasm helped make the experience so memorable. We love uncovering the rich history behind Scotland's favourite spirits, and it's fantastic to know the setting added to the sense of discovery. We hope to welcome you back again soon for another taste of Edinburgh's past and present. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Tripadvisor
Worth it
Ash was a fantastic host who explained the evolution gin with great enthusiasm
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that Ash's enthusiasm and knowledge brought the story of gin to life for you. We hope to welcome you back for another tasting adventure soon. Slàinte, The Lost Close Team.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful Gin experience
Hayley was a fantastic guide, a wonderful experience I would highly recommend this, also the tavern above, very friendly & comfortable.
Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you for the wonderful 5-star review! We're delighted to hear Haley helped make your visit such a memorable one. Each of our storytellers brings their own personality and passion to the experience, so it's great to know that shone through. We're also pleased you enjoyed the tavern upstairs, and we hope to welcome you back to The Lost Close again soon. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Tripadvisor
Gin evolution tour in the lost close
A unique, interesting and super fun experience! We loved Hayley’s expert knowledge and storytelling, we learnt a lot and felt privileged to see and experience this incredible lost close whilst sipping and learning about the evolution of gin. Amazing to see a glimpse into Edinburgh and wider Scotland during those periods of history. A must do when visiting Edinburgh -5 star experience that we would highly recommend. Thank you Hayley, you are a superstar 🏴🔥🙏🏼
Response from the operator: Hi Natalie, Thank you for such a wonderful review. We're delighted that Haley helped bring the stories of Edinburgh, Scotland's gin heritage, and our hidden underground close to life in a memorable and engaging way. Creating experiences that blend fascinating history, exceptional spirits, and a genuine sense of discovery is exactly what we strive for, so it's fantastic to hear it resonated with you. We'll be sure to pass on your kind words to Haley, who will be thrilled to hear she made your visit so special. Slainte, The Lost Close Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 1 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
- 27
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 78
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr cost?
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Prices start at $37 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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr take?
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Plan for about 1 hour 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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 77 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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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Around 27 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-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr 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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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Included: Exclusive Access to The Lost Close; Carbonated beverages; and Alcoholic beverages. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr 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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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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 Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and The tour is strictly for adults. Children under 18 and infants under 1 year old cannot be. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh | 1hr?
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Across 77 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, food and drink. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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