Edinburgh: Cheese Crawl with Local Guide

Discover Edinburgh’s Cheesiest Spots with a Local Guide

The Edinburgh Cheese Crawl with a Local Guide offers an engaging 2-hour walking experience through the city’s vibrant old town. Priced at $47 per person, this tour combines tastings of diverse cheeses, local stories, and a complimentary glass of prosecco. Starting at Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church, it’s perfect for cheese lovers wanting a fun, relaxed way to explore Edinburgh’s culinary and historical heritage.

This tour stands out for its knowledgeable local guide, who brings energy and humor to the experience. While it’s not suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten intolerance, its accessible format and focus on cheese make it a delightful introduction to Edinburgh’s food scene. The 2-hour duration makes it a manageable activity for most travelers, especially those looking for a cozy, flavorful outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Cost and Duration: $47 per person for a 2-hour walking tour
• Includes: Cheese samples, cheese scone, and a glass of prosecco
• Meeting Point: In front of Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church
• Guide: An enthusiastic local guide who shares stories and quizzes on cheese
• Highlights: Tasting various cheeses, visiting local cheese shops, and learning Edinburgh’s heritage
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly with English-speaking guides

Meeting in the Heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town

The tour begins in front of Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church, where your guide greets you and provides a brief overview of Edinburgh’s history and its cheese heritage. From here, the focus is on exploring local cheese producers and vendors. The walk takes you through historic spots, making it easy to combine culinary delights with cultural sights.

The guide introduces you to the area’s cheese history and heritage, setting the scene for a flavorful journey. This central meeting point ensures easy access, and the tour concludes back at the starting location, making it simple to continue sightseeing or dining afterward.

Visiting Local Cheese Shops and Producers

Throughout the cheese crawl, you’ll stop at several local hotspots where cheesemakers and vendors showcase their offerings. These stops include small shops and cheese producers, offering a rich variety of cheeses to taste. Each tasting includes multiple cheese types, so expect a wide range of flavors and textures.

The stops are curated to highlight Edinburgh’s cheese scene, with opportunities to ask questions and learn from the guides about each cheese’s origin, production process, and pairings. The focus on local vendors also means you’ll get a genuine taste of Edinburgh’s culinary culture.

Sampling and Tasting Highlights

The cheese tastings are the core of the tour. You’ll sample many different types of cheese, including cheeses from local producers, along with a cheese scone that pairs beautifully with the flavors. The cheese scone adds a traditional Scottish touch to the experience.

At the final stop, the tour includes a glass of prosecco, elevating the tasting experience and adding a celebratory feel. The guide often prepares a cheese-related quiz to entertain the group, encouraging fun interaction and friendly competition. Many reviews praise the wide variety of cheeses and the knowledgeable, enthusiastic guidance.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Fun

A major highlight of this tour is the guide’s expertise and lively approach. Reviews consistently mention guides like Kieran, Jenny, and Xander for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged despite weather challenges.

Guides are experienced at sharing stories about the cheeses, as well as local Edinburgh history. Their cheese-related puns and quiz questions add humor and entertainment, making the walk both educational and enjoyable. Guests appreciate guides who think on their feet and ensure everyone has a good time, even in tougher weather.

Pacing and Group Size

Since the tour lasts 2 hours, it’s well-paced, balancing sampling, conversation, and sightseeing without feeling rushed. The group size tends to be small—often fewer than 6 guests—which allows for a more personalized experience. This size also makes it easy to ask questions and engage directly with the guide.

The tour is suitable for most mobility levels, being wheelchair accessible, though participants should be prepared for some walking around the old town’s cobbled streets.

Weather Considerations and Flexibility

Weather can influence the experience, especially since the tour involves outdoor stops at local cheese shops. One review mentions tough weather conditions, but the guide’s flexibility and efforts to keep everyone engaged shine through. Carrying an umbrella or dressing warmly can help maximize enjoyment during rainy or cold days.

The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if weather or plans change unexpectedly.

Value and Overall Experience

At $47, this cheese crawl offers a cost-effective way to explore Edinburgh’s culinary and historic sides in just two hours. The inclusion of multiple cheese samples, a cheese scone, and a glass of prosecco adds to its value. The focus on local vendors and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make it stand out among food tours.

While it’s not suitable for vegetarians or gluten-sensitive guests, the tour’s informal, relaxed atmosphere and local focus make it a favorite among those seeking a flavorful, light-hearted outing.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Cheese enthusiasts, curious food lovers, and those interested in Edinburgh’s neighborhoods will find plenty to enjoy. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy walking tours with food tastings and engaging guides. The small group size and informal atmosphere provide a comfortable setting for conversations and questions.

This tour best suits those who appreciate local food and stories without a heavy emphasis on long walking or physical exertion. If you’re seeking a fun, tasty introduction to Edinburgh’s old town with friendly company, this cheese crawl fits perfectly.

Final Thoughts on Edinburgh’s Cheese Crawl

This tour offers a delightful blend of culinary exploration and local storytelling. The cheese tastings, cheese scone, and prosecco make it a satisfying experience for any cheese lover. The knowledgeable guides and small group format ensure a personal touch, making the two hours fly by.

While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s flexibility and engaging guides help maintain a lively atmosphere. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a light, flavorful way to discover Edinburgh’s historic neighborhoods and local food scene.

For $47, this cheese crawl provides a memorable, tasty glimpse into Edinburgh, leaving visitors with new cheeses to enjoy and stories to share.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or gluten-sensitive guests?
No, this tour is not suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten intolerance, as the focus is on cheese and related foods that may contain gluten or animal products.

What does the tour include at the price of $47?
The price covers a live guide, walking tour, multiple cheese samples, a cheese scone, and a glass of prosecco.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts in front of Saint Stephen’s Comely Bank Church and finishes back at the same location, making it convenient for further sightseeing.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but participants should be prepared for some walking on cobbled streets.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for unpredictable schedules.

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