Edinburgh: Discover the secrets of kilt and tartan with a kiltmaker

Imagine stepping into a cozy home in Edinburgh, where instead of a typical sightseeing tour, you get a rare glimpse into Scotland’s traditional craft of kilt-making. That’s exactly what this 2-hour private experience offers—a chance to meet a skilled kiltmaker who’s passionate about preserving this craft and sharing its stories with curious travelers.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll meet a native French-speaking craftsperson, making the conversation both engaging and accessible. Then, you’ll get to try on a traditional Highland garment—a giant “Feileadh-mor” from Outlander—adding a fun, immersive touch. Lastly, the hands-on part where you learn how to pleat tartan is both educational and surprisingly satisfying.

Of course, this isn’t a tour for everyone. If you’re expecting to try on modern kilts or prefer a faster, less involved activity, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you’re a history buff, textile lover, or simply curious about Scottish traditions, you’ll find this workshop both enlightening and memorable.

Good To Know

• Meet a French-speaking kiltmaker and ask all your questions
• Dress in a traditional 18th-century Highland kilt worn by characters like James Fraser
• Learn the art of pleating tartan and understand what makes a handmade kilt special
• Discover the differences between artisan-made and industrial kilts
• Support endangered craft skills that are at risk of disappearing
• Leave with a tartan souvenir to remember your experience

You can check if your dates are available here:

What is this experience all about?

This private workshop in Edinburgh centers on the intricate art of kilt and tartan craftsmanship. Led by an expert kiltmaker from Auld Alliance Kiltmakers, the experience lasts around two hours—enough time to absorb the history, see the process, and try your hand at pleating tartan.

The host is a knowledgeable artisan who speaks French fluently, making the conversation flow smoothly. The focus is on preserving traditional methods, which are increasingly rare in a world dominated by machine-made garments. For those interested in Scottish culture, textiles, or handcrafted skills, this is an excellent opportunity.

You’ll get to dress in the “great kilt”, a large garment worn in the 18th century, popularized by Scottish Highlanders and featured in shows like Outlander. This visual connection to history provides a tangible sense of Scottish identity and costume.

The Highlights of the Experience

Meeting the Kiltmaker

The core of the experience is the personal meeting with a skilled kiltmaker. Guests can ask questions about the history, fabrics, and techniques, gaining insights that go beyond a typical museum visit. The guide’s expertise ensures you understand why handmade kilts are a labor of love, often taking a significant amount of time and skill to produce.

Dressing in the Highland Garment

Putting on the large “Feileadh-mor” is a highlight. The garment, worn by Highlanders in the 18th century and seen in Outlander, visually immerses you in Scottish tradition. This experience helps bring history to life, making it more memorable than just reading about it.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Learning to Pleat Tartan

The pleating process is the heart of kilt craftsmanship. Our guide will explain why pleats are not just decorative but also functional, giving the kilt its shape and movement. Guests even have the opportunity to try pleating tartan themselves, experiencing firsthand the skill and patience involved.

Understanding Tartan and Fabric Choices

From the great tartan spinning mills to independent weavers of Harris Tweed, you’ll learn about the various sources of tartan and fabric quality. The guide emphasizes distinguishing artisan kilts from machine-made ones, highlighting that high-quality, handmade kilts are more durable and crafted with care—though often costing more.

The Endangered Craft

A key part of the tour is raising awareness of an endangered craft. The guide explains that kilt-making has been considered at risk since 2021, and shares what the community is doing to keep these traditional skills alive. Supporting artisans helps preserve a vital part of Scottish heritage.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour:

• An exclusive meeting with a kiltmaker
• A short history of the kilt and tartan in Scotland
• The chance to dress in the traditional “great kilt”
• Learning how to pleat tartan
• A small tartan gift made from scraps as a keepsake

Not included:

• Trying on a modern kilt (which would require a different experience)
• Food, drinks, or audio recordings

Note that the meeting takes place in the host’s home, on the second floor, with no elevator—so accessibility might be a consideration for some.

The Experience Itself: What to Expect

The workshop kicks off at a flexible time, depending on your booking, and takes place in a cozy, dedicated room within the host’s Edinburgh apartment. In this intimate setting, you’ll get personal attention and the chance to engage directly with the artisan.

The guide shares stories about Scottish history, the origins of tartan patterns, and the significance of kilts in Highland culture. You’ll see demonstrations of fabric selection and watch the craftsmanship in action. The highlight, of course, is the hands-on pleating activity, which provides a tangible connection to the craft.

Guests have raved about the expertise of the guide, who answers questions with enthusiasm and depth. Many mention that the visual experience of dressing in the Highland kilt was a real highlight, especially for those who love history or costume.

The Practicalities

• Duration: 2 hours, with flexible starting times
• Group size: Private, ensuring personalized attention
• Language: French-speaking guide
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Price: While not explicitly detailed, the experience offers great value for the depth of knowledge, personal interaction, and unique hands-on activity
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance
• Suitable for: Travelers over 8 years old, but not for babies under 1 year

Why Choose This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for those who want to go beyond typical sightseeing, gaining insight into Scotland’s textile traditions. It’s especially rewarding for history lovers, craft enthusiasts, and cultural explorers who appreciate the effort, artistry, and stories behind iconic symbols.

The private setting and personalized nature ensure that you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. Plus, the opportunity to learn a craft that’s endangered makes this a meaningful experience, supporting artisans and Scottish heritage alike.

The Sum Up

This Edinburgh workshop offers a rare glimpse into the world of traditional kilt and tartan craftsmanship. It’s a deeply engaging activity that combines storytelling, hands-on practice, and cultural education. Whether you’re a history buff, textile lover, or simply seeking a unique souvenir, this experience delivers authentic insight into Scotland’s iconic dress.

The knowledgeable guide, intimate setting, and focus on preservation make it a standout choice for those wanting more than just sightseeing. It’s a brilliant way to connect with Scottish heritage in a personal, meaningful way—one that leaves you with both new skills and a special tartan gift.

While it may not suit those seeking quick, casual attractions, it’s ideal for travelers who value craftsmanship, history, and authentic cultural experiences. If you’re in Edinburgh and want to understand the story behind the kilts, this is an experience you’ll remember long after you leave.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
The experience is recommended for children over 8 years old, as it involves some manual activity and patience. It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year.

Can I try on a modern kilt?
No, the experience focuses on traditional Highland dress and does not include trying on modern kilts.

Where does the workshop take place?
It occurs in the host’s home in Edinburgh, on the second floor in a dedicated room. There is no elevator, so consider accessibility needs.

How long is the workshop?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with flexible start times depending on your booking.

Is the guide fluent in English?
No, the guide speaks French fluently, making it ideal for French-speaking travelers.

What do I get at the end of the experience?
You’ll leave with a small tartan gift made from scraps, as well as new knowledge about Scottish textiles and kilt-making.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, as noted in the description.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This comprehensive, authentic look at the Edinburgh kilt and tartan workshop shows it’s a meaningful, engaging, and culturally rich activity, perfect for those seeking to understand and support Scotland’s traditional crafts.

You can check if your dates are available here: