The Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience is a whisky visitor attraction on Castlehill, just below Edinburgh Castle. Guided tours explain how Scotch is made and finish with a tasting, and every visitor sees the Diageo Claive Vidiz collection of 3,384 bottles. There is also a restaurant, Amber, and a specialist shop.
Photos
Fabian Ruiz
Picking a tour
The Silver Tour is the shortest option, at around 50 minutes with one whisky, and is the one to choose with family in tow. The Gold Tour runs to about 75 minutes and adds a tasting of four regional single malts, and A Taste of Scotland pairs the tour with a three-course meal at Amber. Gold and Taste of Scotland tours are offered in 21 languages, with the tasting itself in English. If you are unsure, the Silver Tour gives a good grounding, while the Gold Tour suits anyone who wants to compare whiskies from different regions side by side.
The collection
The highlight for many is the Diageo Claive Vidiz Scotch Whisky Collection: 3,384 bottles gathered by one collector and on show here since 2009. Every tour passes through it, and it is a striking sight even if you are not a whisky drinker.
Fitting it into a castle day
Its position at the top of the Royal Mile makes it an easy add-on before or after Edinburgh Castle, with Camera Obscura right next door. Book online, bring photo ID if you are tasting, and allow extra time if you plan to browse the shop or eat at Amber.
Highlights
- Guided whisky tours with tastings, steps from Edinburgh Castle
- Diageo Claive Vidiz collection of 3,384 bottles
- Family-friendly Silver Tour
- Tours available in 21 languages
- Amber restaurant and whisky bar on site
Good to know
- The Silver Tour is family friendly; Gold and Taste of Scotland tours are 18+ only.
- Bring physical photo ID.
- Book online; tickets can be rescheduled up to 48 hours before your slot.
- Gift tickets are available.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk