Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh

If you’re craving an unconventional way to learn about gin while enjoying a tasting in Edinburgh, this underground gin tour might just be your perfect match. Hosted in a recently uncovered, historic space, it offers a mix of history, storytelling, and flavorful gin samples—all wrapped up in a compact, hour-long experience that’s ideal for both groups and solo travelers.

What makes this tour stand out is the unique underground venue, The Lost Close, which was once a bank, then a prison, and only recently rediscovered. Plus, the expertly curated selection of four gins, tied into stories of their origins and Scottish innovations, makes this more than just a tasting—it’s a mini journey through time and taste. The only catch? With a max group size of 10, it’s a cozy, personal experience, but you’ll want to book ahead as it’s consistently popular, often booked 22 days in advance.

A few considerations include the price—about $34 per person—which for this level of storytelling, intimate setting, and quality tastings, offers excellent value. Just note that the tour is about an hour long, so if you’re looking for a prolonged, in-depth session or a full distillery visit, this might be a lighter alternative. Otherwise, if you love gin, history, and a dash of adventure, this experience will suit you well.

Key Points

• Unique underground venue in Edinburgh with a fascinating history
• Expert-guided tasting of four distinct gins
• Includes stories linking gin’s evolution with Scottish culture
• Small group size (max 10) for a personal experience
• Great value for a fun, hour-long cultural activity
• Book well in advance due to high demand

An In-Depth Look at the Underground Gin Tasting Experience

The Venue: The Lost Close – An Edinburgh Hidden Gem

The tour begins in CoDE Pod at Parliament Square, but the real highlight is the journey underground into The Lost Close. This space was once the first purpose-built bank in Scotland, then transformed into a prison, and after years of being lost, was recently uncovered during renovations. The fact that you’re stepping into a location with this layered history already adds a sense of adventure to the experience.

From the moment you descend into the underground, you’re immersed in a unique setting that feels like a secret world. Reviewers, like Belinda and Susan, have commented on its “very fun” atmosphere and described it as a “very interesting” backdrop, making the tasting feel even more special. The senses are engaged not just by the drinks but by the historical atmosphere that only an underground venue can provide.

The Guided Tour: Knowledgeable, Humorous, and Engaging

Your guide, often praised for their humor and depth of knowledge, will lead you through stories about the building’s transformation and the history of gin itself. Reviewers, such as Sarah and Sara, describe guides as “brilliant”, “full of humor”, and “very knowledgeable” about both Edinburgh’s past and gin’s evolution.

This personal touch enhances the experience, making it entertaining and educational—even for those new to gin. It’s clear the guides are passionate, weaving storytelling with facts about the spirits and their Scottish adaptations. One reviewer, Denise, called Sarah “wonderfully brilliant and knowledgeable,” which seems to be a common sentiment.

The Gins: Four Distinct Flavors with Stories

The core of the experience is tasting four different gins that span a spectrum of flavors, from historical to modern Scottish creations. The gins are carefully selected to showcase the evolution of the spirit, giving you an understanding of how flavors have shifted over time.

Guests describe the gins as “unusual”, “delicious”, and “from areas we wouldn’t normally explore”—a nod to the thoughtful curation. Several reviewers appreciate that they got to try gins they wouldn’t find easily elsewhere, making this a valuable tasting for enthusiasts.

Stories and Context: Connecting the Dots

Each sip is tied to a story, often about the gin’s origins, ingredients, or the Scottish craft behind it. For example, one review mentions the guide’s “great knowledge of the history of the building and the creation of gin,” which adds a layer of richness to the tasting.

This storytelling approach makes the experience more memorable and accessible, especially for those who enjoy learning while they sip. The narrative makes it easier to appreciate the nuances of different gin profiles, from juniper-heavy classics to more floral or botanically complex options.

Duration, Group Size, and Booking

The tour lasts approximately one hour, offering a solid sampling experience without overextending. With groups capped at 10, you get a more intimate setting where questions and discussions are encouraged. This small size fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere praised by reviewers who enjoyed the “small group environment”.

Booking typically opens about three weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity. The price—around $34—represents good value, considering the quality of the location, guidance, and tastings.

Accessibility and Convenience

Starting at CoDE Pod near public transportation, the tour is easy to find. It ends back at the initial meeting point, which makes planning onward activities straightforward. The venue is also friendly to service animals, making it accessible for some travelers with specific needs.

What Past Travelers Loved

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and humor of the guides—Sara, Sarah, and James—who make the stories engaging and fun. The venue’s “fun” atmosphere and the chance to try “unusual gins” are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Some go further, describing the experience as “fascinating,” “super fun,” and “worth every penny,” emphasizing that even non-gin fans can enjoy the stories and setting. One guest noted that it’s “better than a typical gin tasting” because of the historical context and the underground ambiance.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the duration and depth—since it’s just an hour, those seeking a full distillery visit or longer tasting might find it somewhat light. Also, the price, while reasonable, might be on the higher side for travelers on a tight budget, especially considering it’s a curated tasting rather than a full production tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, spirits enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a fun, informative activity in Edinburgh. The small group setting and storytelling make it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a more personal and immersive experience.

If you enjoy learning about local culture, craft spirits, or hidden historical spots, this tour will resonate. It’s also a good choice for those who want a break from typical sightseeing and prefer something memorable and engaging, especially in a setting that exudes character.

The Sum Up

This underground gin tasting in Edinburgh offers a unique blend of history, flavor, and atmosphere, making it stand out among typical bar crawls or tastings. The expert guides, combined with the remarkable venue, create an experience that’s both educational and entertaining—all for a very reasonable price.

While it’s a relatively short tour, its personalized approach, curated gin selection, and storytelling style make it a highly memorable activity. It’s best suited for small groups, curious travelers, and gin lovers, especially those who appreciate a good story along with their spirits.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and want a fun, different way to explore Scottish culture and craftsmanship, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Book ahead to secure your spot, and prepare for a delightful hour in Edinburgh’s newest hidden underground treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s primarily aimed at adults interested in gin and history. Typically, guests are of legal drinking age, and the experience involves tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately one hour, making it a perfect short activity during your day in Edinburgh.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour is popular and usually booked about 22 days in advance, securing your spot early is recommended.

Is transportation provided?
No, the meeting point is accessible via public transit. It’s easy to find near Parliament Square.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts, making it a fun activity for larger parties or corporate outings.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers your guided tour, the underground venue experience, and four gin tastings, all in a cozy, intimate setting.

Is the venue accessible for people with mobility issues?
While the experience is in an underground location, specific accessibility info isn’t provided. It’s best to contact the provider if you have special requirements.

This underground gin tour combines history, storytelling, and tasting into a compact, engaging experience that offers real value for anyone curious about Scottish spirits or looking for a memorable activity in Edinburgh.