Islander Edinburgh Tour – Old Town, Crafts & Whisky Traditions
Experience Edinburgh through local eyes with Aramont Travel’s Islander Edinburgh Tour, a private walking journey that blends history, craftsmanship, food and whisky into one immersive cultural experience.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour reveals the character of Edinburgh’s Old Town while inviting you to taste, create and connect with Scotland’s living traditions.
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The Experience
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Begin your journey in the lively Grassmarket, a historic square once home to medieval markets, public executions and vibrant social life. Today it remains one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, rich with stories of resilience and transformation.
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Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Walk along the historic Royal Mile, the backbone of medieval Edinburgh, weaving through atmospheric closes and wynds filled with tales of merchants, monarchs and rebellion. Learn the importance of iconic landmarks including St Giles’ Cathedral and the Mercat Cross.
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Visit Tron Kirk Market, a beautifully restored former church now home to Scottish artisans and crafts, offering a glimpse into contemporary creativity rooted in tradition.
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Take part in an authentic Islander bag-making experience, where traditional Scottish island craftsmanship comes to life. Guided by skilled makers, you will create your own handcrafted bag inspired by the textures, colours and heritage of Scotland’s islands. Learn about time-honoured techniques, natural materials and design influences rooted in island life, before assembling a unique piece to take home
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Choose a traditional Scottish tasting dish - a haggis taster, comforting cullen skink (smoked fish soup), or classic cranachan dessert, offering an authentic introduction to local cuisine.
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Conclude your Old Town experience with a whisky tasting flight of three local Scottish whiskies in a traditional pub. Learn how distillation, region, wood and time influence flavour, and, if you wish, enjoy a light-hearted Scottish culture pub quiz to finish the day on a fun and memorable note.
Enhance Your Day
Make your Islander Edinburgh Tour even more immersive with optional enhancements:
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Become a confectioner for the day during an authentic Scottish fudge-making class. In this hands-on workshop, discover the traditional techniques behind one of Scotland’s most loved sweet treats.
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Step into the world of Highland tradition with a private kilt-making experience. Learn the meaning behind tartans, clan identity and ceremonial dress while discovering how the kilt evolved from a practical battlefield garment into one of Scotland’s most powerful national symbols.
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Enjoy a by-appointment private shopping experience inside a castle-like artisan atelier, offering behind-the-scenes access to one of Scotland’s most distinctive craftsmanship houses.
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Step into the lively world of traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing during an immersive private workshop, where music, movement and storytelling transport you back through centuries of Highland celebration and community spirit.
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Continue your cultural journey with a private one-hour bagpipe workshop, offering a captivating introduction to Scotland’s most iconic instrument. Guided by an expert piper, discover the history, symbolism and powerful sound that has accompanied royal ceremonies, clan gatherings and battlefield processions for generations.
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Explore the city’s darker legends with a visit to Mary King’s Close, or experience immersive storytelling at the Edinburgh Dungeon, where history, mystery and theatre intertwine.​
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