With so much to see and do, a single list is not enough. Head to a distillery and learn about the nuances and complexity behind this deceptively simple drink. Put your tastebuds to the test as your knowledgeable guides introduce you to the art of whisky tasting and nosing. Here are some other recommendations for distillery tours within easy reach of the capital:
Edinburgh Gin Distillery
Right in the heart of Edinburgh, this distillery on Edinburgh’s West End frequently ranks among the top visitor attractions in the city. Learn about the history and making of gin on your guided tour, and discover the botanicals used in Edinburgh Gin recipes.
After viewing the distillery’s beautiful custom-made copper stills, “Flora” and “Caledonia”, your guide will lead you through a tutored tasting of the Edinburgh Gin range (we recommend the Elderflower!). Don’t forget to buy a bottle (or two, we won’t tell) before leaving!
Edinburgh Gin Distillery, 1A Rutland Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2AD | t: +44 131 656 2810
Lindores Abbey Distillery
Known as the spiritual home of Scotch whisky, it was here, in 1494 that King James IV sent a commission to a friar living at the Abbey to make for him aqua vitae (what Scotch whisky was once known as). Now home to one of Scotland’s new distilleries, this distillery was opened in 2017, using materials from the original abbey. Continuing the tradition, Aqua Vitae is once again being made here, blended with herbs and spices that are grown on the property. Often drank neat or with an orange twist, Aqua Vitae is slightly fruity with fresh herbal notes. It is also great in cocktails!
Enjoy a tour around the distillery and learn all about the history surrounding this site before enjoying an Aqua Vitae. You can even learn to blend your own little bottle of Aqua Vitae on their special Apothecary Tour!
Lindores Abbey Distillery, Abbey Rd, Newburgh, Cupar KY14 6HH | +44 133 784 2547
Clydeside Distillery
A 45-minute train ride away, the Clydeside Distillery in Glasgow began production in 2018, with its inaugural whisky expected to be matured and ready for release in 2020. Immerse yourself in an interactive whisky tour as 140 years of Dockside history is brought to life through pictures, films and words. On this guided tour, visitors will learn all about the whisky barons and Glasgow’s rich history of shipbuilding and sea trade, before learning about the distillery’s single malt.
Tours end with an expert-led nosing and tasting experience, and you can even opt to learn how to pair your whisky with chocolate! Children need not feel left out as they will be offered a taste of Scotland’s other national drink – the iconic Irn Bru.
The Clydeside Distillery, The Old Pump House, Queen's Dock, 100 Stobcross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ | t: +44 141 212 1401
Glenturret Distillery
Situated in beautiful rural Perthshire, the Glenturret Distillery is a fantastic hidden gem. Nestled amongst the trees and with the Turret river running alongside it, Glenturret is one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland, with whisky production having taken place on the river banks since 1775. Home of the Famous Grouse Experience, Glenturret has a long history of blending, with their single malt being the major component of the Famous Grouse blend.
Unlike most other distilleries, Glenturret continues to make scotch malt whisky the traditional way, maintaining the practice of mashing by hand and cutting by eye. Join one of the many tours on offer, and get to understand why this distillery has been nicknamed ‘Whisky Disney’!
Glenturret Distillery, The Host, Crieff, Perthshire, PH7 4HA | t: +44 176 465 6565
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
Steeped in history and craftsmanship, the stills at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery have been producing beautifully balanced single malt whisky at the heart of Dewar’s Scotch since 1898. Tour the distillery to see how the distinctive honeyed richness of Dewar’s whisky is created, and access their atmospheric warehouse to learn how the whisky is double-aged for extra smoothness.
Whichever tour you choose to do also includes time in the interactive exhibition and a guided tasting. Before leaving, be sure to browse the distillery shop for limited editions or “fill your own” bottle of exclusive Aberfeldy Single Malt whisky.
Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2EB | t: +44 188 782 2010
Whisky Distillery Tours
A great option for visiting these distilleries without running afoul of Scotland’s strict drinking laws is to join a tour. With several options available for all kinds of tourists, you can have your pick of tours available. These day tours usually include stops at 2 different distilleries, along with additional sightseeing opportunities along the way.
Hop on board comfortable mini-coaches as your knowledgeable driver-guide regales you with stories and facts about both Scotland and its national drink. For the whisky enthusiasts among you, why not opt for a multi-day tour that walks you through the different whisky regions in Scotland? Regardless of what you choose, you are sure to have a memorable experience!
While it may be tempting to stay within Edinburgh, what with its many whisky-related attractions such as the Scotch Whisky Experience, there is so much more to see and learn about the history of whisky! And what better way than by visiting a distillery and seeing with your own eyes how whisky is distilled? As tours often book out, especially during the summer and on weekends, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to ensure that you won’t be disappointed!
