Small-Group Historic Coffee Tour in Edinburgh: Uncovering the Origins of Scotland's Coffee Trade

Uncover the fascinating history of Scotland’s coffee trade on a small-group walking tour in Edinburgh. Visit original historic coffee houses, including an exclusive access to an 18th Century meeting point. Discover an underground section of the city not open to the public for 200 years!

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • The Lost Close - Events & Experiences - We have exclusive access to a hidden, underground space, which was once a coffee house dating back to the 18th century, used by prosecutors and pirates alike.
    For the second half of our tour, we’ll be exploring a series of underground rooms, where we’ll drink coffee and finish our tour. There are also toilets…
What's Included
  • Access to The Lost Close, unique underground venue
  • Experienced Local Guide
  • Tea and coffee
Additional Information

Experience a unique walking tour in Edinburgh, focused on the fascinating history of the coffee trade in Scotland.
Start your adventure at John’s Coffee House & Tavern, established in 1688 and once a favorite spot for Enlightenment figures like Adam Smith and David Hume. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup from local roaster Common Coffee while delving into the…

Location
John's Coffee House & Tavern
Parliament Square
Behind St Giles Cathedral, in the corner of Parliament Square, you'll fin the statue of James Braidwood, and next to that is John's Coffee House & Tavern (part of CoDE) where we'll meet you at reception!
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(68 Ratings)
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Danieltk5344zf
May 28, 2025
A Fascinating and Flavorful Coffee Experience - We had an excellent coffee tour in one of Edinburgh’s oldest coffee houses, and it completely exceeded our expectations. I had no idea coffee had such a rich history in Scotland, so it was fascinating to learn all about its roots and cultural significance. Our guide, Sarah, was insightful and engaging throughout. She brought the story of coffee in Edinburgh to life with enthusiasm and depth. The highlight of the tour was finishing in the original coffee house, tucked away beneath the current building—a truly unique and atmospheric experience. This tour is a must for coffee lovers and history buffs alike!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Katie
May 7, 2025
Great experience - Sarah was brilliant, very knowledgeable and easy to get along with. I ended up on a solo tour and would absolutely do it again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nima_p
Apr 26, 2025
How coffee altered Scotland - This tour is about the history of coffee in Scotland. It is very detailed and fascinating. The guide, James, was very funny and easy to get along with. We did have coffee at the beginning and middle of the tour, which was delicious. Bring your sense of humor and your camera!
Review provided by Viator
Chris_l
Apr 24, 2025
What better way to start... - What better way to start your morning than a guided tour of the history of coffee (and other history) in Edinburgh and ending with great coffee in a underground part of the city.
Review provided by Viator
Navigate05498178751
Apr 20, 2025
Great tour for coffee lovers - Fantastic & interesting tour, delicious coffee and very engaging guide! It was a spur of the moment booking but I was so glad I did the tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Journey26229842195
Apr 19, 2025
A coffee lovers must! - This tour was great! Especially for those who love coffee. Sarah, our guide, was phenomenal! This tour was fun, funny and informative. I would book this tour again if I ever get to go back!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Diane
Feb 22, 2025
Great coffee - Great tour, with lovely coffee Sarah our guide made the tour interesting, fun and informative. Thank you You receive a free coffee before the tour, then another one near to the end. Tour stated only 1 coffee but very nice to receive an extra
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Monica_p
Nov 3, 2024
Great tour - This was a super interesting tour with a great knowledgeable and funny guide. Really enjoyed it, particularly the history of coffee in Edinburgh.
Review provided by Viator
Stay18020114161
Oct 19, 2024
Coffee & History!! - Tour was a phenomenal mix of stories and historical facts that often touched on coffee and more peripheral information surrounding it. James was a very passionate and affable guide who encouraged questions and conversation. Great coffee and great tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
564kathleenk
Oct 19, 2024
Fun! - James has an amazing depth of knowledge about coffee history and it's arrival in Scotland. Was very entertaining and fun....also, exceptional coffee was served. 😀
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $21
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).