Port of Leith Distillery (11 Whisky Quay, EH6 6FH) is a vertical distillery on the Leith waterfront, which it describes as the tallest whisky distillery in the world. Production is stacked up through the building, in one of Edinburgh’s most characterful neighbourhoods.
The 90-minute Distillery Tour + Tasting (£30) takes in the stills, a guided tasting and the chance to fill your own miniature bottle of the distillery’s new make spirit. Save time for the bar on the eighth floor, where the windows look out over the Firth of Forth and the Leith skyline.
Location & Getting There
The distillery stands on Whisky Quay in Leith, about two miles north of the city centre and easy to reach on foot, by bus, or on the Edinburgh tram, which now runs down to Newhaven. Leith itself rewards lingering: the Shore’s restaurants and bars, the Royal Yacht Britannia and Ocean Terminal are all close by. Walking from the New Town, the Water of Leith walkway makes a pleasant route in,, and buses from Princes Street also run to Leith.
Tours & Tastings
The flagship tour lasts about 90 minutes and follows whisky production floor by floor up the building. You see the stills up close, sit down to a guided tasting and fill your own miniature of new make spirit to take away. The shorter Distiller’s Tasting (£25, about an hour, four drams) skips the tour. Tours run Wednesday to Sunday. The bar keeps tables for walk-ins as well as bookings. Note the dress code: no high heels or open-toe shoes on the production floor, for safety.
Who It Suits
Port of Leith suits visitors who want to pair a distillery tour with a wider afternoon in Leith, and anyone who values a view – the rooftop bar alone draws people in. It is a good fit for design-minded travellers thanks to the bold building. If you would rather stay right in the Old Town, Holyrood Distillery is the closer working distillery.
Practical Tips
- Wear flat, closed shoes – high heels and open-toe shoes are not allowed on the production floor.
- The tram or a bus is easiest; if you drive, there is free parking at Ocean Terminal nearby.
- The bar is open to non-tour guests too, with tables held for walk-ins. Tours run Wednesday to Sunday.
- Combine your visit with lunch on the Shore or a walk to the Royal Yacht Britannia.
- Tastings are included, so plan for the 18+ age requirement and bring ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Port of Leith Distillery?
It is on Whisky Quay in Leith, reachable by tram to Newhaven, bus from Princes Street, or a walk along the Water of Leith – about two miles north of the centre.
Do I need to book the distillery bar?
No. The bar on the eighth floor keeps tables for walk-ins, but you can also book ahead, which is wise at busy times.
