Edinburgh: Food & Drink Walking Tour with Local Tastings

Summary

Scottish bites and sips from Royal Mile to Grassmarket with stories

You’ll taste classic Scottish dishes (yes, even haggis) as you walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and Old Town with a local guide who brings history to life. Expect stops at favorite restaurants for everything from smoked salmon to whisky tastings—and time to soak up stories along the way. It’s not just about eating; it’s about feeling part of the city for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect haggis to be the first thing I’d try in Edinburgh, but there we were—standing just off the Royal Mile, our guide Morag grinning as she handed over a warm plate. The city felt damp in that way only Edinburgh can manage, a kind of chill that seeps into your sleeves and makes you grateful for anything hot. Morag had this way of telling stories that made every bite feel like part of some old legend. I still laugh thinking about her face when I asked if Irn-Bru counts as a national treasure—she said it’s “practically holy.”

The food tour wound through Old Town’s narrow closes, past buskers and the occasional whiff of malt drifting from a pub doorway. We stopped at Grassmarket, where I tried smoked salmon so fresh it almost melted, and then wandered up towards the National Museum of Scotland. Morag pointed out carvings above doorways—little things I’d never have noticed on my own. At one point, someone in our group tried to pronounce “Cullen skink” (it’s harder than you think), and a local behind the bar just shook his head and laughed.

I liked how nothing felt rushed; we had time to sit in tucked-away restaurants, talk about whisky (and yes, taste it), and watch people go by outside—students hurrying past, an older couple sharing chips on a bench. The private Edinburgh food & drink tour really did feel like wandering with a friend who knows everyone in town. By the time we reached Edinburgh Castle, I was full in every sense—maybe too full if I’m honest—but also kind of wishing there was one more stop for dessert or maybe just another story.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Edinburgh's food and history

• Learn history at Grassmarket
• Explore Chambers Street and Museum of Scotland
• Discover Edinburgh Old Town history
• Learn about Edinburgh Castle
• Explore Royal Mile history
• Discover Edinburgh New Town history

Top questions

Where does the Edinburgh food & drink tour start?

Tours usually start from Netherbow Wellhead on the Royal Mile or 117 George Street depending on the time booked.

Is lunch included on this food tour?

Yes, food equivalent to a full meal is included for brunch, lunch or dinner depending on your tour time.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes, but you need to advise dietary requirements at least 48 hours in advance when booking.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Infants are welcome; they must sit on an adult's lap or use a pram/stroller. Specialized infant seats are available.

What areas of Edinburgh does this walking tour cover?

The route includes the Royal Mile, Old Town, Grassmarket, Chambers Street near the National Museum of Scotland, New Town and up to Edinburgh Castle.

Are service animals permitted?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

How long is the walk between stops?

The walking distances are moderate; travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes guided walks through Edinburgh’s historic neighborhoods with plenty of stops for Scottish food tastings—enough for a full meal—and drinks like whisky or Irn-Bru along the way. Tours start from central locations such as Netherbow Wellhead or George Street depending on your chosen time slot. Dietary needs can be catered for if you mention them during booking.