Scotch Malt Whisky Society
If you are a whisky fan joining us here at Parliament House Hotel, a visit to one of the nearby Scotch Malt Whisky Society venues is a terrific idea! Founded in 1983, the Scottish Malt Whisky Society is a members club, with two venues in Edinburgh; Queen Street and Leith Vaults. Regular visitors may consider signing up for full access and great member benefits. However, non-members are welcome for dining and drinks at Kaleidoscope Bar on Queen Street. The bar has an extensive offering of single malts, exclusive to the society, and they also run some fantastic events and masterclasses.
Kaleidoscope Bar
28 Queen Street is a impressive Georgian building, offering great views over the waters of the Firth of Forth. The Queen Street downstairs whisky bar, the Kaleidoscope Bar, is open to non-members 6 days a week. The SMWS Kaleidoscope Bar has been named the Icons of Whisky, ‘Global Whisky Bar of the Year,’ in the Whisky Magazine’s World Whisky Awards 2022.
The bar is open for drinks and dining, and you can book a table in advance online.
‘Great venue and lovely food, staff friendly and knowledgeable. Can’t wait to come again with family.’
– Scotch Malt Whisky Society TripAdvisor Review
Becoming a member
For those who visit the SMWS regularly, joining the society is a great way to receive all those great member benefits. Such as access to member rooms at all venues, member events, and personal guidance, insights and assistance from the club’s experts, known as the dram-cierge. Members can also purchase bottles of whisky and single cask spirits from the society bars or online.
Find out more about becoming a member of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society.
Whisky lovers will be in their element on a visit to Edinburgh. There are plenty of great whisky attractions to explore across the city, such as distilleries, visitor centres and experiences. Along with a fantastic collection of whisky bars and restaurants. Take look at our Whisky and Gin guide for more ideas of things to do during your stay!
