Perthshire
Established in 1763, Glenturret Distillery is well-known as being Scotland’s oldest working distillery. Located in the heart of Perthshire, just a short walk from Crieff Hydro and Murraypark Hotel, the distillery offers an insight into the traditional methods of whisky making which they still proudly use today. Its malts, revered for their smoothness and character, reflect the pristine waters and barley used in the distillation process.
To get to Glenturret Distillery, you can use the Turret Trail, which starts at our Culcrieff self-catering accommodation at Crieff Hydro. Simply follow the trail along the Turret Burn, and you will arrive at the Distillery. Alternatively, you can start at Action Glen, and head north for a short distance, and the Distillery will appear on the left through some trees. You can use this map to help guide you.
Founded in 1846, Dewar’s Distillery boasts a rich history of crafting exceptional blended whiskies rather than single malts. Their whiskies are characterised by honeyed sweetness and subtle spice, crafted using the golden waters of the Pitilie Burn which runs into the River Tay. The distillery offers a wide range of experiences, from tastings to tours, and is worth a visit.
The Highlands
Ben Nevis Distillery, perched at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, has been producing whisky since 1825. Its home in Fort William, just a 45-minute drive from Isles of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish Hotel, and Kingshouse Hotel, lends a unique terroir to its malts. Known for their robust flavour and hints of heather and peat.
Oban Distillery was founded in 1794 by two brothers, standing as a beacon of tradition in the quaint coastal town of Oban. Its whiskies, often described as a balance of maritime influence and Highland character. Starting as a brewery, but later progressing to whisky, their team remains very small and experts in their craft. In 1989, their 14 Year Old malt was named one of six Classic Malts representing the Western Highlands region. Just a 50-minute drive from our Highlands hotels, we recommend pre-booking a tour before you visit.
The Borders
Slightly different to whisky, but our personal favourite distillery - 1881 Distillery and School, is located in Peebles Hydro. Crafting gins inspired by the hotel’s history and love of tennis, and aptly named after the year when Peebles Hydro was first opened, the distillery uses the mineral-rich water from the hotel’s private spring in their distillation. Offering a range of experiences, including tours and gin-making, we’d certainly recommend a visit, or even an overnight stay - no designated drivers needed here.
Just down the road in Hawick, The Borders Distillery is a modern facility housed within a historic Victorian building. It was established in 2018 and has quickly made a name for itself with its innovative approach to whisky distilling. Embracing traditional methods whilst incorporating modern techniques, the distillery produces a range of whiskies alongside gin and vodka.
Scotland’s distilleries are not just producers of whisky; they are transition bearers, guardians of a strong heritage, and ambassadors of land and local produce. From the picturesque hills of Perthshire, to the mountains and rugged landscape of the Highlands, each distillery has a unique story to tell through their malts, weaving together the past, present and future of the industry. Slàinte Mhath!
