One for the Road?

The most frequent question I get asked by guests regarding the Haymarket area may surprise you.

What is that smell?

Peculiarly, there is an alluding scent throughout not only Haymarket but Edinburgh which captivates your wee nose.

What does it smell like?

The most common perception of the scent profile, I shall share below:

1.     Popcorn

2.     Bread

3.     Marmite

4.     Weetabix

5.     Chicken & Mushroom pot noodle (green one) ‘a British Classic’

6.     Lager

Overall, the base would be a wheat scent. Edinburgh is renowned for the copious amounts of cafes and bakeries but in this instance, it is a result of the Breweries for the unique aroma.

Although, the smell used to be so pungent the city finally mandated in 2009 that the North British Distillery install an odour-control tower to help mitigate the smell of malt and yeast. Yet, even now in 2024 the scent is a topic of conversation for individuals for when they visit Edinburgh.

Brewery smells and chippy sauce are just two of the sensations Edinburgh locals say they love about the city (me included).

To conclude, below I shall share some of my personal favourite comments made by locals, journalists, or travel during 2009 when the tower was installed.

“Since you’re near a distillery already, might as well try some local whisky.” – Thrillist

“A few sips and you’ll forget all about the scent in the air.”- Anonymous local.

“Not a drinker?  Well, then, go climb a volcano.” - Thrillist

“Pungent pong no more” – Anonymous local

Humour, lager and chippy sauce. What more could you ask for? Until next time, I hope to greet you soon!

Kindest regards,

Erin X