Edinburgh: Pickering’s Gin Jolly Tour (Distillery & Tasting)

Discover the Charm of Pickering’s Gin Jolly Tour in Edinburgh

For those who enjoy gin or are curious about the craft behind this beloved spirit, the Pickering’s Gin Jolly Tour offers a delightful hour of insight and tasting. Priced at $34 per person, this tour takes place at the Summerhall distillery in Edinburgh, a city renowned for its vibrant beverage scene. The tour includes a guided walk through the distillery, a gin and tonic, four award-winning gin samples, and a miniature bottle of gin to take home.

What makes this experience stand out is that it’s Edinburgh’s first gin-exclusive distillery in 150 years. The tour is straightforward, lasting around one hour, making it a perfect quick stop for anyone exploring the city’s drink culture. The tour is family-friendly only for those over 18 and is wheelchair accessible, offering an inclusive environment for most visitors.

While the group size generally remains intimate, private tours are available for groups larger than 8 guests. Visitors should plan to stand for the duration of the tour, as walking and some light movement are necessary to see the distillation process and enjoy the tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $34 per person, including tastings and a miniature bottle to take home
• Duration: 1 hour, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Location: Summerhall, Edinburgh, starting at the Royal Dick Bar
• Highlights: Learn about the distillation process, see the stills Gertrude and Emily, and explore the success story of Pickering’s gin
• Tastings: Enjoy a gin and tonic plus four award-winning gin samples
• Age restrictions: 18+ only, with no alcohol served to those under the influence

Starting Point at the Royal Dick Bar in Summerhall

The tour begins at the Royal Dick Bar, located within Summerhall. Visitors meet their guide here, just to the left after Reception. The bar serves as the perfect starting point, where guests are welcomed with a gin and tonic to set the tone for the experience ahead.

The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the tour concludes back at the same location. The indoor setting ensures the experience is unaffected by the weather, and the duration of one hour makes it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day.

Inside Pickering’s: The First Gin-Only Distillery in 150 Years

The core of the tour is a visit to the distillery itself, where guests can see distillers working and may observe the steam-powered stills, Gertrude and Emily, in action. The guides are well-versed in Pickering’s history, sharing how the distillery was founded and its success story as a craft gin producer.

Visitors gain an understanding of the unique distillation process, which is a significant part of the experience. The storytelling is engaging, and guides highlight the inventiveness that has made Pickering’s a well-regarded name in the gin world.

Tasting Four Award-Winning Gins in a Cozy Setting

The highlight for many is the gin tasting session, set in a dedicated room. Here, guests sample four different gins, each with its own unique flavor profile. The tasting room offers a relaxed environment to share thoughts about each sample and compare notes with the group.

The tour includes a complimentary miniature of Pickering’s London-Dry Gin, perfect for collectors or as a souvenir. The tasting is not rushed, allowing ample time to appreciate the aromas and flavors, making it ideal for both gin enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

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Learning About Pickering’s Gin and Its Inventions

Throughout the tour, the guides explain not only the distillation process but also the story of Pickering’s as a pioneer in Edinburgh’s gin scene. Visitors learn about the inventions and innovations that have contributed to the distillery’s reputation, emphasizing its success story.

The storytelling is lively and informative, making the technical details accessible and engaging. This aspect appeals to those interested in craft spirits and the business side of distillation.

The Atmosphere and Accessibility of the Tour

The tour takes place indoors, which makes it suitable for any weather. It’s also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that most visitors can participate comfortably. The small group size—especially for private bookings—helps keep the atmosphere intimate and personalized.

Guests should be prepared to stand during the tour, as moving between the different areas and viewing the stills requires some light walking. The guided commentary is lively and engaging, with many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides who bring the story of Pickering’s to life.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

For a smooth experience, it’s recommended to arrive promptly at the Royal Dick Bar. For groups exceeding 8 guests, booking a private tour is advised to avoid possible refusal of entry. Visitors should also note that the tour is for those aged 18 and above, and no food can be brought into the distillery.

The tour is held in any weather, thanks to the indoor setting, but guests should wear comfortable shoes and be ready to stand. Since the duration is only one hour, it fits easily into a city itinerary without much disruption.

The Value of the Pickering’s Gin Jolly Tour

Priced at $34, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of a gin and tonic, four gin samples, and a miniature bottle to take home. The reviews consistently mention the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, with Max, Alyssa, and Jamie receiving praise for their engaging storytelling and friendliness.

The experience also offers a behind-the-scenes look at a small but successful distillery, proving that quality and innovation in gin can thrive in Edinburgh. For those wanting a short, informative, and fun activity focused on spirits, this tour hits the mark.

The Best Audience for This Tour

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy gin or are curious to learn about craft distilling. It suits those with a keen interest in spirits, as well as casual visitors looking for an informative, entertaining activity in Edinburgh. The tour is especially appealing to groups seeking a social experience with tastings at its core.

While not suitable for children under 18, the intimate and interactive nature of the tour makes it a memorable highlight for spirits lovers and curious travelers alike.

Final Words on the Pickering’s Gin Jolly Tour in Edinburgh

In just an hour, visitors get a rundown of Pickering’s gin, the distillation process, and the story of this pioneering Edinburgh distillery. The tastings and miniature bottle add a tangible takeaway that keeps the experience lasting well beyond the visit.

The friendly guides and welcoming atmosphere create an engaging environment, making this tour a value-packed option for anyone interested in spirits. While it’s best suited for adults and those with an interest in gin, the tour’s accessible setting and informative style ensure it’s a pleasure for most visitors to Edinburgh’s drink scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is for those aged 18 and over due to alcohol regulations.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, with specific starting times depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
The $34 ticket includes a distillery tour, a gin and tonic, four gin samples, and a miniature bottle of gin to take home.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available for groups exceeding 8 guests. Separate bookings for larger groups may be refused entry if not arranged in advance.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Guests should arrive at the Royal Dick Bar on time and be prepared to stand during the tour. No special preparations are necessary.

Are food and additional gin samples available?
No, additional samples are not included in the price, and food is not allowed during the tour.

What makes this distillery unique?
It is the first gin-exclusive distillery in Edinburgh in 150 years, and it showcases innovative distillation techniques and a compelling success story.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, but groups over 8 should book a private tour to ensure availability.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Reviewers consistently praise guides like Max, Alyssa, and Jamie for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendly approach.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby