Haggis paired with whisky & gins in 56 North distillery!

If you’re looking to combine a taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage with a splash of local spirits, the Haggis paired with whisky & gins experience at 56 North Distillery offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich traditions. This two-hour activity allows you to sample traditional Scottish haggis—both classic and veggie options—while exploring the distillery’s signature spirits, including the South Loch Gin. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances authentic food, handcrafted drinks, and some insights into Scotland’s distilling craft.

One of the standout features? The self-guided tasting of three spirits—two gin samples plus a single malt whisky—paired with the haggis. You get to appreciate each drink’s nuanced flavors at your own pace, with expert tasting notes and the option to add ice or mixers. It’s an informal yet informative way to learn about Scotland’s distilling heritage, all within the lively atmosphere of the original gin bar and working distillery.

A potential consideration? The reviews indicate that some participants found the experience a bit quiet or lacking in detailed explanations, so if you’re after a lively guided tour, this might not be your ideal. However, if you enjoy relaxed, self-guided tastings with friendly staff, it’s a solid choice.

This tour suits those curious about Scottish cuisine and spirits, especially travelers who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences over large group tours. It’s perfect for whisky and gin lovers, foodies interested in local dishes, or anyone wanting a relaxed introduction to Edinburgh’s distilling scene.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish Haggis: Includes traditional or vegetarian options paired with neeps & tatties.
• Self-Guided Tasting: Enjoy three spirits—two gins and a whisky—at your own pace.
• Locally Made Spirits: South Loch Gin, crafted on-site, plus a single malt whisky dram.
• Accessible Atmosphere: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, informal experience.
• Knowledgeable Staff: Tasting notes and assistance from friendly bar team.
• No Guided Narration: Some may find the experience less informative than guided tours, based on reviews.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Location and Setting
The experience takes place at 56 North Distillery, right in Edinburgh’s city center, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. As you step into the bar area, you’re greeted by a lively, welcoming atmosphere that’s both casual and distinctly Scottish. The distillery itself is operational, meaning you get a behind-the-scenes vibe with stills and production areas visible upon entry.

The Food: Haggis and Veggie Variants
The highlight for many is, of course, the haggis itself. Served with traditional neeps (mashed turnip) and tatties (mashed potato), it’s seasoned, hearty, and full of local character. The peppercorn sauce adds a little zing to each bite. For vegetarians or those who prefer plant-based options, the veggie haggis offers a thoughtful alternative that doesn’t compromise on authenticity or flavor. This emphasis on inclusivity means the tour caters to a wider range of dietary preferences, which adds to its appeal.

The Spirits: Whisky and Gins
The core of the tour revolves around a self-guided tasting of three spirits. You get two servings of South Loch Gin, crafted on-site, along with a dram of single malt whisky. These are presented neat, allowing you to really appreciate the flavors without dilution. Fever-Tree mixers are available if you prefer your gin with a splash of tonic, and you’re encouraged to experiment and find your favorite combination.

The South Loch Gin is a standout, with tasting notes provided to help you identify its botanical elements. The whisky, meanwhile, offers a glimpse into Scotland’s whisky heritage, even if the tasting is informal. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to answer questions, which adds value to the experience—especially if you’re new to spirits.

The Atmosphere and Group Size
While some reviews noted that the experience was “quiet and not very informative,” this aligns with the self-guided format, where you decide how much to engage. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you’re free to take your time. The bar’s lively vibe, combined with the friendly staff, makes it a comfortable environment to learn, taste, and chat.

Value for Money
At $30 per person, the experience offers a well-rounded introduction to Scottish cuisine and spirits. When you consider the inclusion of traditional food, three spirits, and tasting notes, it’s quite reasonable—especially for visitors interested in local culture rather than a structured guided tour.

Challenges and Considerations
The main drawback, based on a review, is the lack of guided narration. Some participants felt it could have been more informative. However, for those who prefer a more relaxed, self-paced experience, this isn’t necessarily a negative. It’s also worth noting that the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 18, so plan accordingly.

Timing and Logistics
Check availability to see the start times, which are typically around 2 hours long. The experience begins simply by entering the distillery, where staff are ready to assist. It ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits spirit enthusiasts eager to taste local gin and whisky while enjoying authentic Scottish cuisine. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed atmosphere and prefer self-guided activities over guided tours. Foodies interested in trying traditional dishes like haggis will find it particularly appealing, especially with veggie options available.

However, those wanting detailed historical commentary or a lively guide-led experience might find this tour somewhat subdued. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy trying new flavors at their own pace and learning through tasting rather than narration.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the haggis paired with whisky & gins experience at 56 North Distillery offers a balanced and authentic taste of Scottish culture in a friendly setting. You’ll get to enjoy hearty food, explore local spirits, and soak up the lively Edinburgh vibe—all without the pressure of a guided tour.

The self-guided approach lets you savor each sip and bite at your own pace, though it might lack detailed storytelling for some. For a casual, approachable introduction to Scotland’s distilling heritage, this activity hits the mark—especially if you’re a foodie or spirits lover.

In terms of value, the price is reasonable considering the quality of the food and drinks, plus the chance to learn about local distilling traditions directly from the team. It’s a no-fuss option that blends culture, cuisine, and spirits into one enjoyable hour or two, making it a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, as alcohol is involved.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just your passport or ID card for verification.

Is the tasting guided?
No, it’s self-guided, which some find relaxing but others might see as less informative.

How long does the activity last?
Approximately 2 hours, with start times available based on availability.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, veggie haggis is offered as a tasty alternative to traditional haggis.

Do I get tasting notes?
Yes, tasting notes are provided for all three spirits and the food.

Can I add mixers to the gin samples?
Yes, Fever-Tree tonics are available if you’d prefer your gin with a splash of tonic and ice.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at the same meeting point inside 56 North Distillery, making it easy to continue exploring or head elsewhere.

This tour offers an enjoyable, relaxed way to experience Scottish culinary and spirits culture in Edinburgh. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a whisky connoisseur, you’ll likely appreciate the authentic flavors, friendly staff, and casual setting that make this experience stand out.