Lunch in Edinburgh combines sightseeing with satisfying Scottish fare. The best options pack a lot of value: A Highland day trip includes scenic stops at Loch Ness with quality packed lunches, while the clever Sherlock Holmes walking tour pairs Victorian history with a science-themed meal. Hard Rock Cafe, right off the Royal Mile, serves reliable set lunches with a fun musical backdrop. For authenticity, several walking tours include stops at family-run spots serving traditional haggis, neeps, and tatties. These top tours serve up Edinburgh’s best mix of food and culture.
Check out our favorite Edinburgh lunch experiences:
Key Points
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Enjoy a packed lunch featuring sandwiches and shortbread during the Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh.
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Savor a scientific lunch at the historic Tolbooth pub on the Sherlock Holmes-themed immersive tour in Edinburgh.
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Dine at the Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh, with its musical ambiance and 2-course Gold Menu or 3-course Diamond Menu options.
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Indulge in a traditional two-course Scottish lunch during the comprehensive full-day Edinburgh tour.
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Experience a lunch featuring local Scottish cuisine at a restaurant as part of the guided city tour of Edinburgh’s key attractions.
Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands With Lunch From Edinburgh
Travelers embark on a scenic 12-hour journey from Edinburgh to explore the captivating Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands.
Departing from the city center, the tour offers breathtaking views of Stirling Castle, Trossachs, and Glen Coe.
Highlights include a stop at Fort Augustus on Loch Ness, where an optional boat cruise provides a chance to spot the legendary Loch Ness monster.
Lunch is included, with a small packed meal of sandwiches and shortbread.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
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Edinburgh: Sherlock Holmes Immersive Tour With Lunch
Aspiring Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts can embark on a captivating 4-hour immersive tour through the historic streets of Edinburgh. Priced from $340.29 per person, the tour includes a guided exploration of the city’s medical school and Greyfriars Cemetery, where students once exhumed bodies.
Participants will discover the real-life inspiration behind the iconic detective, Joseph Bell, and solve crimes inspired by actual cases. The experience culminates in a scientific lunch at a haunted pub, the Tolbooth, dating back to 1591.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and culinary delight.
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Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh With Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Visiting the iconic Hard Rock Cafe in Edinburgh offers diners a chance to enjoy a musical atmosphere steeped in rock and roll history.
With its 4.0/5 rating based on over 160 reviews, the restaurant features a historic decor adorned with musical memorabilia.
Patrons can choose from a 2-course gold or 3-course diamond menu, along with a kids’ menu, all of which include soft drinks and gratuities.
While the food and service have received mixed reviews, the cafe’s accessibility, cancellation policy, and proximity to public transportation make it a convenient lunch option.
Visitors are advised to reserve in advance and communicate any dietary needs to ensure a satisfactory experience.
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Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands Tour With Lunch
This 12-hour guided tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive exploration of Scotland’s breathtaking Highlands, including a visit to the legendary Loch Ness.
Priced from $70.22 per person, the tour features stops at Callander, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, and Pitlochry, with an optional Loch Ness boat cruise.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and overall organization, though some cite concerns about bus comfort and lack of charging facilities.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a packed lunch including vegan options, this tour provides a comprehensive Highlands experience at a competitive rate.
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Full Day Tour of Edinburgh Including Lunch With A Local Expert
Frequently regarded as one of the best ways to experience Edinburgh’s highlights in a single day, the Full Day Tour of Edinburgh Including Lunch With A Local Expert provides travelers with a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the city.
This small-group tour, with a maximum of 17 participants, covers Edinburgh’s historic landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque outskirts. Guests will use public transport and walking to discover the city, culminating in a visit to Calton Hill for panoramic views.
The tour includes a traditional two-course Scottish lunch with options for various dietary needs and a soft drink. With a duration of 6-7 hours and an all-day bus pass, this tour is an efficient and highly recommended way to experience the best of Edinburgh.
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Edinburgh: Guided City Tour With Lunch
Edinburgh’s guided city tour with lunch provides visitors an engaging and efficient way to experience the city’s top attractions.
Covering highlights like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the historic Old Town, the tour offers commentary on the city’s rich history and culture.
What’s more, a lunch stop at a local restaurant allows travelers to savor traditional Scottish cuisine.
With a duration of around 4-5 hours, this guided experience is an excellent option for those seeking a rundown of Edinburgh during their limited time in the city.
Highly rated by past participants, this tour is an efficient and enjoyable way to make the most of your visit to Scotland’s capital.
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Edinburgh: Loch Ness & Scottish Highlands Tour With Lunch
For those seeking an immersive journey beyond Edinburgh’s city limits, the Loch Ness & Scottish Highlands Tour with Lunch promises an unforgettable experience.
This 12-hour excursion covers over 300 miles, allowing travelers to witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Highlights include a photo stop in Glencoe, exploration of Fort Augustus, and an optional Loch Ness boat cruise with hi-tech imaging systems.
A picnic lunch is provided, catering to dietary preferences. With an average rating of 4.3/5 from over 2,000 reviews, this tour offers excellent value, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation, making it an ideal choice for those eager to discover the rugged beauty beyond Edinburgh’s urban core.
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Edinburgh: Hard Rock Cafe With Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
A rock and roll icon since 1976, the Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh offers visitors a chance to dine at this renowned global brand.
With set menu options like the 2-course Gold Menu or the 3-course Diamond Menu, guests can savor American classics like the Original Legendary burger or the vegan Moving Mountains burger.
The dining experience lasts 75 minutes and is limited to small groups of up to 4 participants.
Located conveniently near top Edinburgh attractions, the Hard Rock Cafe is a popular choice, with positive reviews highlighting its accommodating staff, generous portions, and quick service.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food to the Tours?
Typically, you can’t bring your own food on tours. However, some tour operators may allow it if you notify them in advance. It’s best to check with the specific tour company before your visit to confirm their policy on outside food.
Are the Lunch Options Suitable for Dietary Restrictions?
The tour operators often accommodate dietary restrictions, providing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s best to inquire about the lunch menu when booking to ensure your dietary needs can be met.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the City?
The tours typically don’t include transportation to and from the city. Participants are usually responsible for arranging their own transportation to the meeting point. Some tour operators may offer optional add-on transportation services for an additional fee.
Can I Customize the Lunch Menu for My Group?
Many tour operators allow customers to customize the lunch menu for their group. This provides flexibility to accommodate dietary requirements or preferences. However, the extent of customization may depend on the specific tour and catering arrangements.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Lunch Breaks?
Typically, lunch breaks are allotted 1-2 hours, allowing ample time for diners to enjoy their meal at a relaxed pace. The specific duration may vary depending on the hotel’s policies and your group’s schedule.
The Sum Up
Edinburgh offers a variety of lunch experiences that allow visitors to explore the city’s landmarks, attractions, and local cuisine. From guided tours with lunch to dining at iconic establishments like the Hard Rock Cafe, these options provide a convenient and authentic way to enjoy the best of what Edinburgh has to offer during the midday meal.