Edinburgh Coffee History: A Unique Walking Tour

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
(74 Ratings)
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Globetrotting598842
Aug 6, 2025
Absolutely a Must! - Not only were the stories intriguing and entertaining, the coffee was the BEST in the entire city! Very friendly friendly!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Emmib605
Jul 31, 2025
An historical epic tour - The historical facts and anecdotes were very interesting. The tour guide made it very attractive. The lost close is an amazing place to see. And the coffee tastes delicious!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Liv_h
Jul 24, 2025
Coffee in history, what could be better? - The tour guide was knowledgeable and engaging. The tour itself just helped to open my eyes to the beauty and history of Edinburgh.
Review provided by Viator
K7037lcab
Jul 22, 2025
Great tour with Nicky - Great and very interesting tour with Nicky, she knew so much, took questions and made a wonderful coffee. I had a lovely time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jamesgm2564yc
Jul 18, 2025
The best guide at the Real Mary Kings Close. - My wife and I did the early morning coffee and The real Mary Kings Close tour. Sarah was professional, energetic and knowledgeable and Annabel at the real Mary Kings Close tour was one of the best guides I've ever seen and heard She was in character the whole time, spoke clearly and well, was humorous and professional. A true asset to the tour. Thankyou! James and Charissa. South Australia
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Barbara_y
Jun 26, 2025
Coffee laced with a rich history and a touch of intrigue. - An absolutely delightful tour with premium coffee. Our guide James was knowledgeable, funny and very engaging. The stories shared by James and his associate Dan were rich in Edinburgh history with ties to the wonderful elixir of coffee. The tour of The Lost Close was very cool. We highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Nnbeck
Jun 19, 2025
Great experience - Great guide, coffee, unique locations, and interesting facts! My friends and I loved starting our day with this coffee tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jonas_p
Jun 14, 2025
Exceptional Tour - Sara was extremely knowledgeable and really engaging, we loved this tour and would really recommend anyone to come along and try it!!
Review provided by Viator
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
From $20
up to 8 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).