Adventure brief
HOLYROOD DISTILLERY TOUR
Discover Edinburgh's revival of whisky heritage at Holyrood Distillery. Join a guided tour that takes you inside the craft of award-winning gin and single malt whisky production, complete with tastings.
Edinburgh’s Holyrood Distillery stands out as a rare beacon in Scotland’s storied whisky landscape. Located at 19 St Leonard's Lane, this distillery is carving a niche as the city’s first single malt producer in more than a century. Visitors step into a world where tradition and innovation collide in the crafting of award-winning spirits, including the distinctive Height of Arrows gin and rich single malt whiskies.
The guided tour lasts about an hour and takes guests through the intricate processes behind distillation, fermentation, and maturation. The experience offers a hands-on view of copper pot stills bubbling and washbacks foaming—moments that reveal the craftsmanship behind each bottle. Throughout the tour, tastings punctuate key stages, allowing visitors to savor samples of both gin and whisky, along with a welcome cocktail to set the tone.
This visit is accessible and family-friendly, catering to anyone aged eight or older, with accommodations such as a distillery lift for those needing it. While children participate with soft drinks, the whisky and spirits tastings are reserved for adults. The distillery prides itself on being a modern steward of Edinburgh's whisky heritage, blending local history with a forward-looking approach to spirit production.
Sitting just a short walk from Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park, Holyrood Distillery links urban charm with authentic Scottish craftsmanship. Visitors often pair the tour with nearby walks through volcanic hills and rugged rock formations, enriching the connection to Scotland’s landscape and culture. Holyrood Distillery’s distinct blend of historic resurgence and hands-on spirit education makes it an essential stop for anyone interested in Scotch whisky’s evolving story and the artisanal techniques fueling its renaissance in Edinburgh.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring Valid IDessential
Guests who look under 25 must bring original photo ID to sample spirits due to 'Challenge 25' policy.
- 02Arrive Earlyinfo
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour start time to ensure smooth check-in.
- 03No Parking On-sitewarning
There is no parking available at the distillery; plan to use public transport or nearby paid parking.
- 04Accessible for Wheelchairsinfo
The tour route is wheelchair accessible with a distillery lift available for convenience.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Valid Photo ID
Required for alcohol tasting and age verification.
EssentialComfortable Walking Shoes
Tour includes indoor walking on smooth floors and some standing periods.
EssentialWeather-Appropriate Jacket
Edinburgh weather can be unpredictable; dress in layers for outdoor walking before or after your tour.
spring|fall|winterEssentialReusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated between tastings and on nearby walks.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Walk up to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic city views, Stroll through the quiet lanes of Holyrood Park
Local fauna
Red squirrels glimpsed near Holyrood Park, Various urban birds including woodpigeons and robins
Historic heritage
Holyrood Distillery marks the return of single malt whisky distillation to Edinburgh after a century-long absence.
Mindful exploration
The distillery emphasizes sustainable sourcing and energy-efficient processes to minimize environmental impact.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Inside the copper still room for industrial close-ups, Exterior shot of the historic building façade, Nearby Arthur’s Seat lookout for cityscape backgrounds
- Subjects
- Copper stills, Bubbles in washbacks, Spirit bottles and tasting glasses
- Best times
- Golden hour, Late afternoon, Morning light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are children allowed on the distillery tour?
Children aged 8-17 can join, with soft drinks provided, but those under 8 are not permitted for safety reasons.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour route is fully wheelchair accessible with a lift available.
Can I purchase spirits after the tour?
Yes, guests can buy Holyrood Distillery’s gin and whisky at the distillery’s bar.
How long is the tour and tasting experience?
The guided tour lasts approximately one hour and includes multiple spirit tastings.
Are bookings refundable if canceled?
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start can be refunded.
What languages are supported on the tour?
Tours are conducted in English, with written translations available via QR code in French, Spanish, German, and Mandarin.