Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour with Whisky or Gin

Discover Edinburgh’s Underground Vaults and Tasting Experience

This Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Tour with Whisky or Gin offers a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden subterranean spaces on the Royal Mile. For just one hour, you explore the Lost Close, a secret underground venue, while enjoying a mystery whisky or a gin and tonic. The tour is designed for those curious about Edinburgh’s underground history and who appreciate a good drink paired with storytelling.

The tour departs from outside John’s Coffee House & Tavern, just behind St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square. It includes a guided exploration of the vaults and Lost Close plus one drinking experience, with the drinks selection changing monthly. While the group size is limited to 10, making for an intimate experience, some travelers note that the drink selection may not appeal to all, and the one-hour duration is quite brief—ideal for a quick but memorable visit.

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Key Points

• Explores the Lost Close, a secret underground Edinburgh space.
• Includes a tasting of mystery whisky or gin and tonic.
• Guides are knowledgeable and explain the history of the vaults.
• The duration is 1 hour, with a small group of up to 10 people.
• Meeting point is outside John’s Coffee House & Tavern, behind St Giles Cathedral.
• The tour has a 4/5 rating from three reviews, indicating solid satisfaction overall.

Starting Point and Meeting Location on the Royal Mile

The tour begins just outside John’s Coffee House & Tavern, a short walk from St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square. At this spot, a guide will lead you underground into the lost vaults and the hidden space of Lost Close. The coordinates (55.94944, -3.18986) confirm the meeting location.

Travelers should arrive on time since the group is small, and the guide will take you directly into the underground space. The meeting point is easily accessible from the main tourist areas of Edinburgh, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city center.

Exploring the Lost Close: Edinburgh’s Hidden Underground Space

Once underground, the guide leads you through the vaults and Lost Close, revealing how this hidden area was uncovered and its historical significance. The space once served as an underground bank vault, adding intriguing context to the exploration. The atmosphere is unique, with the underground setting amplifying the sense of discovery.

The storytelling from the guide is a key feature, with expertise that helps bring the space’s history to life. The dark, atmospheric environment makes the experience feel like stepping back in time, providing a different perspective on Edinburgh’s city history beyond the usual landmarks.

Tasting a Mystery Whisky or Gin During the Tour

A highlight of the tour is the included tasting experience. Each month, the mystery whisky is selected to spotlight a particular distillery, historical event, or independent bottler. If you prefer, you can choose a gin and tonic instead, providing variety for different tastes.

The drinks are served in the underground vaults, adding to the overall ambiance. The small tasting allows for focused enjoyment, and the guide explains the origins and details of the chosen spirit, enriching the tasting experience. This element makes the tour more than just a historical walk—it’s also a chance to savor Scottish whisky or local gin in a distinctive setting.

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The Atmosphere of the Underground Space

The underground vaults create a mysterious and atmospheric environment that enhances the experience. Visitors appreciate the dim lighting and stonework, which evoke a sense of history and secrecy. The small group size ensures a personal feel, allowing the guide to give more detailed explanations and answer questions effectively.

The space’s ambiance is complemented by the storytelling, making this tour a memorable journey into Edinburgh’s underground world. The environment is not suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, as it involves entering underground spaces, but it remains a highly unique experience for most visitors.

The Role of the Guide and Tour Format

The live tour guide delivers the narration in English, sharing stories about the vaults’ history and discovery. The small group setting (limited to 10 participants) fosters an interactive atmosphere, where questions and engagement are encouraged. The guide’s knowledgeable style is seen as a strength and helps make the history of Edinburgh’s underground spaces come alive.

Since the tour lasts just one hour, it offers a compact yet fulfilling experience. Visitors should be prepared for a quick pace, with enough time for the tasting segment and storytelling but not for extensive exploration.

Practical Details: Duration, Cancellation, and Accessibility

This hour-long tour is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance—ideal if your plans change. Visitors reserve now and pay later, offering added convenience. The small group format and limited availability mean it’s best to book in advance during busy periods.

Accessibility is limited, as guests cannot be wheelchair users, and children under 18 and pregnant women are not permitted. Smoking indoors is prohibited, so expect a smoke-free underground environment. The tour is conducted in English, making it suitable for most visitors fluent in the language.

Comparing This Tour to Other Edinburgh Whisky Experiences

While the experience focuses on underground history, it offers an alternative to larger or more commercial whisky tours. The changing monthly whisky selection ensures a fresh tasting each time, and the underground setting provides a distinct atmosphere absent in typical distillery visits.

Other similar experiences, such as the Holyrood Distillery tour or whisky and folklore tours, may offer a broader range of tastings or historical themes. Still, this tour’s highlight remains its underground exploration combined with the tasting.

Limitations and Considerations

The main limitation is the short duration, which might feel rushed for those wanting a more in-depth exploration. The drink options are limited to whisky or gin, which might not suit all preferences, especially for those seeking non-alcoholic options. Plus, the environment is not accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Some reviews indicate that the drink selection may not appeal to everyone, and the brief length might not satisfy visitors looking for a more extensive experience. However, the quality of storytelling and atmosphere remains a strong point.

Who Would Enjoy This Edinburgh Vaults Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for those interested in Edinburgh’s underground history, local spirits, and short, engaging experiences. It’s ideal for adults over 18 who want a small-group, intimate atmosphere and are comfortable in underground spaces.

It suits travelers seeking a quick, memorable adventure with a drink included and a guide who can bring the stories of the vaults to life. It’s less suitable for those with mobility restrictions, pregnancy, or young children.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 1 hour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside John’s Coffee House & Tavern, just behind St Giles Cathedral on Parliament Square.

What is included in the price?
The experience includes a guided visit to the vaults and Lost Close plus one mystery whisky or gin and tonic.

Can I choose the drink?
No, the whisky or gin is a monthly changing mystery; you can opt for gin and tonic if preferred.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18, pregnant women, and babies under 1 year are not permitted.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, wheelchair users are not suitable due to the underground environment.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, the tour allows you to reserve your spot without paying upfront.

What is the guide’s language?
The guide delivers the tour in English.

What do reviewers say about this tour?
It has a rating of 4/5 from three reviews, with praise for the guides’ expertise but some noting that the experience might be brief or the drink selection limited.

This underground vaults tour in Edinburgh offers a compact, atmospheric, and informative experience for those interested in local history and spirits. Its small-group size, engaging storytelling, and unique setting make it a worthwhile addition to any visit to Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.

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