A new tour is offering up the chance to get an insight into Edinburgh's gin production and smuggling history.
A Sip Through Time, which comes as a partnership from Pickering's Gin and The Real Mary King's Close, takes visitors through the historic attraction with fascinating facts surrounding the spirit. The hour long interactive tour includes a gin tasting session.
Looking back to the late eighteenth century, the tour will look at how the gin craze first took off in Edinburgh.
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Guests will find out how and why spirits were smuggled through and beyond Edinburgh, as well as learn more about the cultural and social landscape of Auld Reekie at the time. You'll also discover why 98 per cent of gin distilleries operates without a license for two centuries.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “Over the last few hundred years, the popularity of gin in the city of Edinburgh has continued to grow and become deep-rooted into the culture of this vibrant city.
"We are delighted to partner with local distillers Pickering’s Gin to share the fascinating history of the Edinburgh gin trade with a new generation of gin drinkers, all whilst enjoying a responsible tipple or two."
Rachel Thomson, Head of Marketing at Summerhall Distillery, said: “As a local Edinburgh distiller, we are thrilled to be joining The Real Mary King’s close to share our knowledge and take visitors on a journey through time to discover Edinburgh’s bustling gin trade. We’re really looking forward to welcoming guests to the tour and letting them sample some of our finest creations, all distilled here in Edinburgh”
Beginning on July 7, the tours will be running every weekend throughout the month. You can find out more, and get your tickets, here.
