NEW FOR 2026:

Edinburgh’s Master Storytellers, Mercat Tours, are redefining the walking tour, promising to enrich and deepen your connection with Edinburgh’s people and its past far beyond your visit.

Take the Story Home: evoke the memories.

Embark on a sensory journey through Scotland’s whisky. Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town, where the world’s largest Scottish whisky company was founded and a vibrant history of “aqua vitae” (or the “water of life”) began. Hear the stories of those who jump-started whisky production in Edinburgh, including the smugglers, bootleggers and other seedier characters of the Old Town’s underbelly.

We have King James IV of Scotland (commonly referred to as the world’s first famous whisky drinker) to thank for Edinburgh’s monopoly on whisky production in the 15th-century. He believed in the drink’s medicinal properties, which is why the Guild of Surgeon Barbers was originally tasked with manufacturing it.

You’ll also learn of 19th-century Old Town locals like George Ballantine and Andrew Usher Jr; pioneers of homemade whisky, which ended up being exported worldwide.

These are just two of the many fascinating transformations that Scotch whisky has undertaken over the centuries, which we will explore as we wander the wynds and closes where these real-life events took place.

Whisky Tasting in Underground Vaults

Colourful history, tradition and a candlelit whisky tasting

The tour continues with a whisky tasting in our candlelit underground Megget’s Cellar. Hear captivating tales, breathe in the rich aromas, and savour a single malt tasting in our exclusive underground vaults. There’s no better way to warm the spirits. You’ll taste four Scottish whiskies, under the guidance of our whisky specialist.

Your expert will cover everything you need to know about the water of life; from how whisky is made to the effects that different fundamental elements such as water, barley, peat and the cask have on the production process. Nose and taste your way through the whisky regions, with sample whiskies from Speyside, Highland, Islay and Lowland distilleries. Just consider this your first step to becoming a whisky connoisseur!

As a certified B Corporation, we're dedicated to responsible tourism practices that benefit our community and environment.

Join an unrivalled journey into Edinburgh's past, engaging all the senses to create a truly memorable experience that lasts long after your visit.