Whisky in Edinburgh: The Scotch Whisky Experience vs Johnnie Walker Princes Street

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and love whisky (or even just curious about it), you’re in luck—this city doesn’t just serve whisky, it celebrates it. Two of the most popular experiences in town are The Scotch Whisky Experience on the historic Royal Mile, and the glitzy, modern Johnnie Walker Princes Street attraction. I have visited both, and trust me, they’re very different.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which one to book, or why you should probably just do both.


Location & Vibe

• The Scotch Whisky Experience is right next to Edinburgh Castle. The location alone gives it a classic, historic feel. Inside, the decor is cozy and traditional, with tartan touches and warm lighting. You really feel like you’re stepping into a piece of whisky history.

• Johnnie Walker Princes Street sits in the heart of the city’s shopping district, just opposite Princes Street Gardens. It’s sleek, ultra-modern, and full of digital storytelling and high-end design. Think of it as a flagship store-meets-interactive museum with a whisky cocktail in hand.

The Tours: What to Expect

• At The Scotch Whisky Experience, you start your journey in the most unexpected way – a slow-moving barrel ride (yes, a whisky-themed amusement ride!) that guides you through the whisky-making process. Afterward, a guide takes you through Scotland’s whisky regions, helping you explore the differences in flavor, geography, and style. You also get to see the world’s largest whisky collection; Over 3,300 bottles!

• At Johnnie Walker Princes Street, the focus is on you. After a flavor profile quiz, your tour is customized to match your taste preferences. You will be given a colored band to wear so that your tour guide knows what your flavor profile is. The experience blends brand history, storytelling, lights, music, and cocktail culture into a full-sensory journey. It’s more like walking through a whisky-themed immersive theater production.

The Tastings

• At The Scotch Whisky Experience, tastings are more educational. You’ll sample single malts from different regions and really learn what makes a Speyside different from an Islay. At the time of our visit, they were even giving scratch-n-sniff cards so you could have an olfactory experience of the different regions. It’s perfect for someone wanting a broad introduction (or deeper dive) into Scotch whisky.

• At Johnnie Walker, it’s all about blends, cocktails, and innovation. You’re likely to try signature Johnnie Walker labels—Red, Black, Gold, or Blue—and possibly even limited editions. Tastings are usually mixed with mixers (such as soda water) or served as cocktails, depending on your quiz results. It’s fun, but more brand-focused than regionally educational.

Shopping & Food

• The Scotch Whisky Experience has a great whisky shop with a massive selection from all over Scotland, including rare and independent bottles. The Amber Restaurant is tucked inside and offers hearty Scottish dishes, often with whisky pairings.

• Johnnie Walker Princes Street is all about the Johnnie Walker brand. The shop is sleek and offers exclusive bottles and personalized labels. The real draw is the rooftop 1820 Bar, which has one of the best views in Edinburgh—castle skyline included. It’s the perfect place for a stylish cocktail and small plate after your tour.

Insider Tip: Do Both

If you’ve got time, I highly recommend doing both. Start your whisky journey at The Scotch Whisky Experience to get a foundation in Scotland’s whisky regions and styles. Then, head to Johnnie Walker for a fun, high-energy take on whisky’s modern future and enjoy a cocktail (and their amazing charcuterie board) at the 1820 rooftop bar.

Whether you’re new to Scotch or a seasoned dram drinker, both experiences offer something special—and very Scottish.

Slainte!