A Dram of History


Sip through Edinburgh’s hidden past on a guided tour, where stories of Edinburgh’s past meet the origins of Scotland’s national drink.

Person wearing a mask with a pointy nose holding aloft a small glass filled with amber liquid.
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Venue Key Features

Wifi

Venue Accessibility

Accessible toilets

British Sign Language

Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or novice, this unique experience is a great way to delve deeper into the fascinating history of whisky.

A Dram of History takes you deep into the underground streets of The Real Mary King’s Close for a one-hour guided tour. Once a lively centre of trade, these hidden 17th century closes are the perfect setting to uncover whisky’s early days, its rise in popularity, and the characters who shaped its story.

After your tour, settle into a vaulted room for a 30 minute tasting led by an expert storyteller. You’ll enjoy three distinctive drams, each with its own flavour, history, and character.

Tours take place on Fridays and Saturdays in May 2026, starting at 5pm and 7pm. This tour is only available to those aged 18+ years.

Please note, due to the historic nature of the site, The Real Mary King’s Close is not wheelchair accessible. Due to uneven surfaces and some steep inclines, sturdy footwear is strongly recommended.

Afterwards, there’s the option to round-off the evening with a 3-course Taste of Scotland dinner at Amber Restaurant. Just a short walk from the Close, Amber is known for its warm welcome and menus rooted in seasonal, locally sourced produce. Available exclusively to Dram of History guests, this includes three courses and tea or coffee to finish, and is priced at £55.00 per person. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated.

For full details and booking information go to A Dram of History.