Edinburgh: South Loch Gin Distillery Tour & Tastings

Summary

Gin making stories, tastings, laughter and a cocktail finale in Edinburgh

You’ll sip a welcome G&T as you learn how South Loch Gin is crafted in Edinburgh, then taste three unique house gins with premium mixers before finishing with a sparkling cocktail. Hosted by local gin lovers in a relaxed setting, this tour leaves you feeling both curious and oddly attached to juniper.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re holding it wrong,” our guide grinned as I tried to swirl my first South Loch Gin & Tonic. I laughed — honestly, I’d never thought about how you’re supposed to hold a gin glass. The bar at 56 North felt like someone’s cozy living room, only with more bottles and that sharp, citrusy smell of botanicals in the air. It’s not fancy or stiff — just friendly chatter bouncing off the copper stills while we sipped our welcome drink and listened to stories about gin in Edinburgh. I didn’t expect to care about juniper this much.

We stood around the stills (they really are kind of beautiful — all gleaming metal and soft light), and our host walked us through how South Loch Gin is made from scratch right here. She passed around little jars of botanicals for us to sniff — one smelled like lemon peel, another almost peppery. There was this moment when everyone went quiet just smelling things. Then someone sneezed (not me!) and we all cracked up. It’s funny how quickly you feel part of a group when you’re sharing weird scents.

The tasting part was my favorite — three different gins, each poured into tiny glasses with matching mixers. I tried to sound clever describing them (“herbal? floral?”) but mostly just enjoyed the flavors mixing with the fizz. Our guide told us which ones worked best with tonic or soda, and why they use certain botanicals here in Scotland instead of others. At the end they handed us a gin cocktail topped with bubbly — honestly, I’d come back just for that last drink alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Learn and taste South Loch Gin

• Arrive at South Loch Gin distillery
• Enjoy welcome Gin and Tonic
• Learn gin making process
• Taste three South Loch Gin samples
• Enjoy gin cocktail topped with bubbly

Top questions

How long does the South Loch Gin Distillery tour last?

The session lasts about 60–75 minutes.

Is there an age limit for this gin distillery tour?

Yes, it’s strictly over 18s only (Challenge 25 ID policy applies).

What drinks are included in the tasting?

You get a welcome gin & tonic, three South Loch Gin tastings with mixers, and a final gin cocktail topped with bubbly.

Where is the South Loch Gin Distillery located?

The distillery experience takes place at 56 North in Edinburgh.

Are public transport options nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options available close to the venue.

Do I need any special fitness level for this activity?

No special fitness level is required; it’s suitable for all adults.

What’s included

Your visit includes a welcome gin & tonic on arrival, guided walk-through of the distilling process by one of the local gin team at 56 North in Edinburgh, three samples of South Loch Gin paired with premium mixers, plus a final gin cocktail topped with bubbly before you head out into the city again.