Thirsty for Edinburgh: Scotlands Best Historical Pub Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
A haunted jaunt through the historic pubs of Edinburgh’s grassmarket. This walking pub tour will offer a guided insight to the grizzly histories of Edinburgh’s old town in some of the most awe inspiring pubs in the country.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Old Town
An introductory themed cocktail crafted by our in house mixologists
Edinburgh Castle
A pub with a resident banshee, built into the labyrinthine tunnels of the old city
What‘s Included
Welcome cocktail courtesy of 'Thirsty For's' mixologists
Guide
You are welcome to purchase your own beverages at each stop
Options
Thirsty for Edinburgh: Scotlands Best Historical Pub Tour
Reviews
26 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The Best Pint and History Combo in Edinburgh
Z3290MYanthonyc,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thirsty for Edinburgh: Scotlands Best Historical Pub Tour ⸻ We went into this tour thinking it would be a large group, but it ended up being just the two of us and our guide, John — and honestly, that made it even better. The other two guests who didn’t show truly missed out. John was absolutely fantastic. He gave us a great historical overview of Edinburgh while also sharing stories about his hometown in Ireland, which made the experience feel personal and authentic. It wasn’t just facts — it felt like we were hearing history from a friend. He’s the kind of person you’d genuinely want to grab a pint with and just talk for hours. The tour was entertaining, fun, historic, and relaxed all at the same time. We laughed, learned a lot, and had an amazing time. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Edinburgh. If you get John as your guide, you’re in for a treat.
A Fantastic Historical Pub Tour in Edinburgh!
2FindAdventure,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an absolutely brilliant time on this historical pub tour. John, our guide, was outstanding — incredibly friendly, genuinely personable, and full of fascinating knowledge about Edinburgh’s history. His great sense of humour and engaging storytelling made the whole experience even better. Each stop on the tour was unique and full of character, and John brought every location to life with his insight and enthusiasm. We learned so much, had plenty of laughs, and enjoyed some excellent pubs along the way. We’d highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Edinburgh. It was a highlight of our trip, and John made it truly memorable. This felt like visiting pubs with a friend! We had an excellent time.
Drinks, drinks, and more drinks.
Victoria S,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What fun, funny let the baby face fool you. Loads of experience and relevant stories and anecdotes. The other people couldn't make it, so it was just me, my guy, and the host. But it didn't feel awkward, surprisingly it was the cemetery for me. So cool.
10/10 fun
Carrie B,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Enormous fun. Adam was a lovely personable guy, communication was excellent, and he made sure to find good alternatives for pubs that were closed for refurbishment while giving us fantastic history lessons along the way. We had such a good time that we went over by a bit having drinks and chatting!
Phenomenal!
GoPlaces738159,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such a fun time! Our guide Adam was phenomenal and we had a blast! Definitely recommend for anyone!
A must!
L5560ZVjuliap,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.0011/10 recommend this tour. John, our guide, was super knowledgeable, fun, and passionate about Edinburgh’s history. Many laughs and memories were had - and we learned a ton. Thank you Viator and John!!
Great pubs , stories and host
Gretchen A,Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Ended up with a private tour for two because the other scheduled guests canceled, but our host, John, didn't miss a beat. We visited 4 great pubs with interesting, and/or sinister histories. John was welcoming and funny, and answered any questions we had about Edinburgh. He also gave us a great revommendation for fish and chips after. All of the suggested beverages were a hit, especially the traditional ale at Grey friar's Bobby. Would highly recommend this experience.
Erecting Tales of the Deceased.
suemH3089KK,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00John was absolutely fabulous. Our evening tour was filled with tales from the dark side along with wonderful cask beers from the local, get bizarre pubs. The evening was “erectifing” or should I say that John rose to the occasion when telling the tales of the deceased. The night was one we won’t forever anytime soon.
Stories, Beer and Whisky with John
D6147HZrichardw,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide on Oct 11 was so awesome. Fun fun fun. John showed us a really fun time. We loved the pubs, the beer and the whisky. Especially the stories. The tour exceeded expectations! One of the highlights of our time in Edinburgh!
Incredible Time With John!!!
Sherpa558690,Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Like meeting up with an old friend who knows all the great places to hit! Laughs, interesting facts, and more laughs!! Highly recommended this to kick off your visit to Edinburgh!!! John was the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!!!!
From £29.00
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Operated by Hungry For Tours