in , ,

Sip and Discover: Unveiling the Best Whiskey Distillery Tours of Scotland

Welcome to the world of whisky aficionados, where the aromas of peat, the smoothness of aged oak barrels, and the rich history of a time-honored craft blend together to create an unforgettable experience

Welcome to the world of whisky aficionados, where the aromas of peat, the smoothness of aged oak barrels, and the rich history of a time-honored craft blend together to create an unforgettable experience. Scotland, known as the birthplace of whisky, holds an esteemed place in the hearts of connoisseurs around the globe. From the rolling hills of the Highlands to the rugged shores of Islay, Scotland’s distilleries offer a captivating journey into the art of whisky production.

Embarking on a whiskey distillery tour in Scotland is a pilgrimage for enthusiasts seeking to delve deeper into the realm of this revered amber elixir. The country boasts a myriad of distilleries, each with its own distinctive character and time-honored traditions. Whether you’re an avid whisky connoisseur or simply curious to explore the fascinating world of single malts and blended whiskies, these tours offer an opportunity to witness the craft firsthand and indulge in the flavors that have made Scotland famous.

During these immersive tours, visitors have the privilege of witnessing the entire whisky-making process, from the malting of barley to the mashing, fermentation, distillation, and aging in traditional oak casks. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the production facilities, sharing their expertise and insights into the intricate art of whisky production. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the unique characteristics that define different whisky regions and the importance of maturation in crafting exceptional drams.

Beyond the technical aspects, these tours also provide glimpses into the captivating stories and legends that have shaped Scotland’s whisky heritage. Learn about the resilient distilleries that survived Prohibition, the pioneers who perfected the art of blending, and the legendary figures who shaped the industry. Whether it’s tales of smugglers navigating treacherous landscapes or the royal warrants bestowed upon prestigious distilleries, the history of whisky in Scotland is as captivating as the spirit itself.

To complement the educational experience, whisky tastings are an integral part of these tours. Indulge in sampling a wide range of whiskies, from the peaty and robust flavors of Islay to the smooth and elegant drams of Speyside. Expand your palate as you savor the nuances of different expressions, guided by expert tasters who unravel the complexities and subtleties of each whisky’s profile.

As you embark on the best whisky distillery tours of Scotland, you’ll find yourself immersed in breathtaking landscapes that have inspired generations of whisky makers. From the mist-shrouded mountains to the windswept islands, Scotland’s natural beauty serves as the backdrop for these unforgettable journeys. The passion, dedication, and craftsmanship of the distillery teams will leave an indelible mark on your whisky appreciation, forever deepening your connection with Scotland’s liquid gold.

So, whether you’re a devoted whisky enthusiast or an adventurer seeking to explore the cultural fabric of Scotland, the best whisky distillery tours of this ancient land will transport you on an extraordinary odyssey, unlocking the secrets of the amber nectar and forging memories that will last a lifetime.

The following are the Best Whiskey Distillery Tours of Scotland

#1 Whisky and Loch Lomond Full-Day Tour from Glasgow

Compare the timeless beauty of Loch Lomond with the state-of-the-art Clydeside Distillery on a full-day tour from Glasgow. Join this tour and discover two of Scotland’s national treasures.

  • Admire the views of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland's largest lochs
  • Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and castles
  • Visit the conservation village of Luss for panoramas of Loch Lomond
  • Learn how whisky is made with a visit to Clydeside and Glengoyne Distillery

Meet your guide in Glasgow and start your journey by visiting Glengoyne, a distillery boasting a lovely location and a unique way of distilling whisky.

Discover the simple, yet magical process of making whisky from barley, water, and yeast. Every stage of Glengoyne's production is unhurried , resulting in a deliciously sweet and fruity whiskey that is a true pleasure to taste.

A tasty pub lunch awaits you in Balloch, a village in the countryside. This charming place is the gateway to Loch Lomond, so be sure to take walk to the shores of the loch before you head towards the second distillery of the day.

After a day filled with mountain air, lochs, and forests, travel back to Glasgow’s Clydeside Whisky Distillery. Located in the famous Queen’s Dock, this state-of-the-art distillery brings the production of single malt back to the city. Take a tour and see how this whiskey is distilled from grain to glass.

After a relaxed afternoon visit here you return to Buchanan Bus Station with the stories and flavors of single malt whisky fresh in your mind.

1 Point
Upvote

#2 The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting in Edinburgh

Enjoy a guided tour and tasting in one of the world's largest collections of Scotch whisky. Discover the art of blending and the secrets of single malt whisky across our 5 whisky-producing regions.

  • Learn about the production of Scotch whisky
  • Discover the different aromas from the five whisky-producing regions
  • Enjoy a tutored dram experience in our famous Scotch whisky collection

Take a guided whisky tour and learn the story of Scotland’s most famous product. Visit one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky, with almost 3,500 individual bottles.

Begin your tour with the story of the production and maturation process of single malt Scotch whisky. Then enjoy a sensory journey across Scotland, including an introduction to the five Scotch whisky-producing regions and an insight into their unique aromas and characteristics.

Next, discover the art of blending, in the Blenders' Sample Room, learning the secrets of how the world-famous blends are created. Enjoy the chance to explore "one of the seven wonders of the Scotch whisky world", the glass vault containing one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky (guests under 18 years of age will be given Irn Bru, a Scottish soft drink). Take home your crystal tasting glass as a souvenir.

When you select the Gold Tour option, after enjoying a full guided Silver Tour, you'll then compare and contrast four regional single malts, while relaxing in the McIntyre Gallery. Assisted by experienced guides, and provided with tasting notes, you'll be able to sip like a true connoisseur.

1 Point
Upvote

#3 Speyside Whisky & Moray Firth Tour from Inverness

Whether you're a whiskey lover or a whiskey learner, get a taste for it in the beautiful region of Speyside. On this tour, get the most out of the region by visiting two distinct distilleries.

  • Marvel at Scotland's whiskey region, home to high-quality distilleries
  • Taste the national drink and learn about its history, process and flavors
  • Explore Elgin's gorgeous cathedral
  • Enjoy the chance to tour the Glen Moray Distillery and Tomatin Distillery

Get ready to explore the Speyside region and Scotland’s most delectable industry.

You depart Inverness and travel through the beautiful Scottish country until you reach Tomatin Distillery. Their single malt and blended Scotch whisky has been around since 1897 and is a rich and wonderful way to start the day.

Next up you journey into the beautiful region of Speyside, the whisky-hub of Scotland. You'll stop in at one of the little towns for a delicious lunch, to recharge and refuel for the rest of your day. And as you pass through the area, your driver-guide will take you to some beautiful spots we know you and your camera will love.

Your next stop will take you back in time to 1224 when it was built. Elgin Cathedral may be a ruin now but it was built dedicated to the Holy Trinity. Get your camera ready, it's well worth a shot.

Now it's time for your afternoon treat. You are welcomed at Glen Moray Distillery, who have been producing their single malt Scotch whisky for over 120 years in the heart of Speyside. Here, you may join a tour and discover the different areas of whisky production and sample the golden-hued spirit itself.

Now it's time to head back to Inverness with new stories to tell and new whiskies to love. Itinerary and distillery visits are subject to change.

1 Point
Upvote

#4 Craigs Speyside Highland Private Whisky Tour from Inverness

Travel through the beautiful Scottish Highlands and Cairngorms National Park, visiting iconic whisky distilleries and other attractions as desired on a private customized tour from Inverness.

  • Experience breathtaking views of the Scottish Highland
  • Discover world-famous scotch whisky distilleries
  • Get the opportunity to sample fantastic whiskies
  • Admire beautiful landscapes en-route to Speyside
  • Take advantage of a flexible itinerary

Be immersed in the stunning Scottish Highland scenery and discover world-famous scotch whisky distilleries on a private customizable tour from Inverness. Following a pickup from your hotel, take the A9 trunk route and head North on what is possibly one of the most beautiful trunk routes anywhere in the UK.

Driving through Cairngorm National Park you'll be conveyed onto the Speyside Whisky area where you can visit the distilleries of your choice from Balvenie, Macallan, Glenfiddich, Cragganmore, Glenlivet, Cardhu, Glenfarclas, Benriach, Aberlour, Glenmoray, and Benromach.

Decide if you'd like to tour the working part of the distillery, take a tutored whisky tasting, or simply visit the shop and visitor center to browse and perhaps purchase.

Spend as little or as much time as you want each distillery or make unscheduled stops at any other attraction as you wish during the experience.

Although not a distillery, Speyside Cooperage provides a popular tour showing how they make barrels for the Whisky industry.

1 Point
Upvote

#5 Full-Day Highland Lochs, Glens and Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

Explore the history, legends, and magical tales of the Scottish Highlands on a small group tour to the lochs and glens. Visit Dewar's Whisky Distillery and taste a dram of whisky.

  • Go to Dunkeld and see the waterfalls of the Hermitage
  • See Britain's tallest tree
  • Tour the Highland village of Pitlochry
  • Stop at The Queen's View at Loch Tummel
  • Taste a wee dram of Scotland's national drink at Dewar's World of Whisky

Leave Edinburgh and travel over the Queensferry Crossing to the Kingdom of Fife. Travelling north the scenery changes from the rolling farmland of the Lowlands to forested hills and mountains as you approach the Highland Fault line.

On the banks of the River Tay you find the gorgeous cathedral town of Dunkeld. You stop here and have the chance to explore the architecturally fascinating cathedral or walk the quaint streets of this picturesque village. It's a short drive from here to the Hermitage, where you can take a fantastic woodland walk leading up to the Black Linn Falls.

Leaving the Hermitage you follow the wide valley of the River Tay towards the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry. You spend around one hour here, so you can visit the many great shops or have lunch. After lunch, you drive through Highland Perthshire, stopping at Queen's View overlooking Loch Tummel for a short break. On a clear day the view here is awe-inspiring as it looks over to the unmistakable peak of Schiehallion and beyond to the mountains of Glencoe.

From here you travel to the town of Aberfeldy and Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery*, where you can discover the secret of how Scotland's national drink is made. After enjoying a dram of our ‘water of life’, the tour returns you to the Lowlands and back to Edinburgh.

 

0 Points
Upvote

#6 From Edinburgh: Discovering Malt Whisky Distillery Day Tour

Savour Scotland’s 'Water of Life' on this whisky distillery day trip from Edinburgh. Sample a delectable range of whiskies, learn about Scotland’s national drink and visit Loch Lomond.

Visit Glengoyne, a quaint distillery located at the foot of a delightful hillAdmire views and take postcard-perfect photos at Loch Lomond National ParkExplore Deanston distillery, a large distillery with a fascinating industrial pastBuy a delicious lunch at a traditional pub near the shores of Loch Lomond

Get better acquainted with Scottish whiskey on this day trip by van from Edinburgh. Explore the distilleries of Glengoyne and Deanston and go for a drive along the shores of the famed Loch Lomond. 

Depart from Edinburgh in the morning aboard a climate-controlled van and relax on the drive west past Stirling castle. 

Arrive at Glengoyne Distillery and be introduced to the simple but magical process of turning barley, water, and yeast into whisky. Enjoy a tour and two dram tastings. 

Unwind with a scenic drive to the shores of Loch Lomond. Stop at a pub where you can purchase a hearty lunch and some local beer (cost not included). After lunch, have the option to go for a short walk to the viewpoint overlooking the loch.

Later, make your way to Deanston Distillery where you can take a tour and enjoy a whisky tasting experience. Explore the features of this distillery that was converted from a cotton mill on the banks of the Teith River. 

Find out how the distillery produces some unique whisky flavors before returning to Edinburgh with the stories and flavors of single malt whisky fresh in your mind. 

0 Points
Upvote

#7 Edinburgh: Ultimate Whisky Experience

Take a trip into Whisky paradise on a 1-day excursion from Edinburgh. Visit the distilleries of Dewar's Aberfeldy and the Glenturret, whilst enjoying some beautiful highland scenery.

  • View stunning scenery across Loch Lubnaig in the Scottish Highlands
  • Take part in Dewar's Aberfeldy's delicious Whisky and Chocolate tasting tour
  • Spend time at the Glenturret distillery - Scotland's oldest working distillery

Depart from Edinburgh and journey north to South Queensferry, where you will enjoy a photo stop of the Queensferry Bridges. Continue on to Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery for the first whisky-themed stop of the day.

Spend 2 hours here for their Whisky and Chocolate tasting tour priced at £19.55 per person. Head on to Loch Lubnaig, and then to the Glenturret distillery. Located on the Turret River, just outside of Crieff, Glenturret Distillery is Scotland's oldest working distillery and still hand-crafts its whisky using the last remaining hand-operated mash tun in Scotland. Here, enjoy a tour and tasting at a cost of £15.

0 Points
Upvote

#8 Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting in Glasgow

Explore The Clydeside Distillery, a single malt Scotch whisky distillery in the heart of Glasgow. Enjoy the Dockside Story in a self-guided area, a guided tour of the distillery, and a tasting of 3 Clydeside spirits.

  • Discover a historic building built in 1877, the Old Pumphouse, now home to The Clydeside Distillery
  • Enjoy a Clydeside tasting of our own spirits
  • Take in the views from the picturesque, glass Still House looking down the River Clyde

Discover the Dockside Story and soak in the history of the Old Pumphouse and the historic area of the Queen's Dock in the self-guided area at the start of the tour. Learn about the birth of the whisky industry and Glasgow’s history, featuring live footage and animation bringing the story to life.

Next, your expert guide will take you through several areas of production at the distillery. See the craftsmen produce the high quality, New Make Spirit, currently maturing to become The Clydeside Single Malt Whisky.

Your guide will provide all the detail in the production process at the distillery, including malting, mashing, fermentation, and distillation. Marvel in the picturesque Still House with the copper wash and spirit still, admiring the view down the River Clyde.

Head into the tasting room where you'll experience the development of the Clydeside spirit, starting with the distillery's new make, followed by two whiskies that have each matured in first-fill bourbon casks and first-fill sherry casks.

0 Points
Upvote

#9 Scotland Whisky Explorer: Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

Explore the Scottish Highlands and take in some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and sights. You’ll have a chance to try a “nip” of the national drink and take the optional “Famous Grouse Experience” tour at one of oldest whisky distilleries.

  • Visit the impressive Kelpies structures, dedicated to the Scottish legend
  • Tour the Glenturret Distillery and take the optional Famous Grouse Experience
  • Walk through the forest at the Hermitage to the stunning Black Linn Falls
  • Explore Dunkeld, a picturesque village famous for its beautiful cathedral ruins

We depart from Edinburgh in the morning, heading for the majestic Kelpies, a pair of enormous equine structures. We drive through Scotland’s scenic landscapes, venturing further into the Highlands before stopping at one of Scotland’s famous whisky distilleries.

After reviving ourselves with a wee dram of the ‘water of life’, we head to The Hermitage in the heart of Perthshire and take a short woodland walk.

Our return journey visits the charming village of Dunkeld and its cathedral before returning to Edinburgh, passing the iconic Fort Bridge on the way.

0 Points
Upvote

#10 Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling

Take part in a unique whisky and folklore evening. Choose the whisky-tasting option and enjoy 4 classic single-malt whiskies or an alternative as you immerse yourself in Scottish storytelling culture.

  • Enjoy four great single malt scotch whiskies (drink alternatives/just stories)
  • Immerse yourself in Scottish storytelling
  • Get access to comprehensive tasting notes

Enjoy an evening of whisky appreciation on a whisky-tasting experience on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile. Taste four single malt scotch whiskies and enjoy storytelling from your guide. If you want to avoid alcohol, you can join the tour and choose to book the option without whisky tastings.

Meet your guide on the iconic Royal Mile for a short walk to one of the supplier's outstanding whisky venues. Over the next two hours, drink 4 outstanding single malt scotch whiskies taken from the 4 major whisky-producing regions of Scotland.

Taste whiskies which range from the relatively delicate and subtle flavors of the Lowlands to the bold and robust tastes of Islay. You will also be given tasting cards giving notes on each of the whiskies that you sample.

During the tour, experience some traditional storytelling and explore the significance of whisky to the Scottish identity. The entire upper floor of the venue is reserved, so there is plenty of space and privacy to conduct the story-orientated evening.

0 Points
Upvote

#11 Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour from Edinburgh

Enjoy this unique 4-day tour to the “Queen of the Isles” and the Whisky Coast. Islay is home to 8 of Scotland’s finest malt whisky distilleries. Discover the unique peaty flavors of the whisky, and explore the Island's beautiful scenery and long history.

  • Drive through the stunning Loch Lomond National Park
  • Visit the ancient Kilmartin standing stones
  • Stay in the charming village of Bowmore
  • Tour the Islay distilleries
  • Discover the sandy beaches of Islay’s west coast
  • Explore Oban, the Gateway to the Isles
  • See the distinctive white buildings at Inveraray

Explore Islay and become a whisky expert on this unique 4-day tour. Sit back and enjoy the action-packed itinerary as you are driven in style in a luxury minicoach. And learn about the long history and traditions of this special Island.

Discover everything Islay has to offer, from stunning sandy beaches to fascinating wildlife and a vibrant local culture. And try the famous Islay whiskies, renowned for their strong peaty flavors and nurtured by the salty sea air.

Day 1 - On day 1 you’ll travel through Loch Lomond National Park, with visits to Inveraray, Loch Fyne and the Kingdom of Dalriada. Here you can see the Kilmartin standing stones and community museum before catching the ferry to Islay for 3 nights in Bowmore.

Day 2 - Day 2 gives you the flexibility to visit the lovely sandy bays of Islay’s west coast, Saligo Bay, Kilchoman Distillery, Machair Bay, the tiny harbor village of Portnahaven, Bruichladdich Distillery, Ardnahoe Distillery, and the Islay Museum.

Day 3 - On day 3 you’ll explore the south side of Islay followed by a tour, tasting and lunch with local produce at Ardbeg. Other options include the ruins of Kildalton church or a visit to the community craft producers at Islay House Square and the woodlands along the River Sorn.

Day 4 - On day 4 you’ll take the ferry back to Argyll and the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada. Lunch will be at Kilmartin, home to 350 pre-historic monuments and stone circles, with some free time in Oban before returning to Edinburgh via Glasgow.

0 Points
Upvote

#12 Holyrood Distillery Whisky Tour and Tasting Edinburgh

Enjoy a guided tour and tasting through Holyrood Whisky Distillery. Learn about the heritage of scotch whisky production and Holyrood’s innovative approach to creating new whiskies.

  • Take a guided tour through the Holyrood Whisky Distillery
  • Learn about the heritage and traditions of scotch whisky production
  • Enjoy a guided tasting of 4 delicious drams of new make spirit
  • Discover Holyrood’s innovative approach to creating unique whiskies
  • Experience a unique part of Scotland's heritage in the heart of Edinburgh

Join a guide for a tour of the Holyrood Whisky Distillery to discover Scotland's rich scotch whisky heritage. Enjoy a tasting of 4 new make spirits and learn how the distillery creates its new and unique flavors.

A modern distillery in the heart of historic Edinburgh, Holyrood Distillery is inspired by its surroundings, never afraid to experiment, and dedicated to shaping the spirit of tomorrow. Delve into Scottish history and heritage on this distillery tour.

0 Points
Upvote

#13 Rosslyn Chapel, Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery from Edinburgh

Visit the intriguing Rosslyn Chapel, famous from the Da Vinci Code. See the pretty town of Melrose and explore its Abbey. Then discover how whisky is made at the Glenkinchie Distillery.

  • Explore the famous Rosslyn Chapel and seek out the secrets of the Da Vinci Code
  • Visit Melrose Abbey, said to be the burial place of Robert the Bruce's heart
  • Enjoy a dram of whisky at Glenkinchie Distillery
  • Have some lunch in Melrose and explore the town and its Abbey

Travel through the Scottish Lowlands and Borders on an enjoyable day-tour. See the varied natural wonders that make this section of Scotland famous. See historic sites and sample real Scottish whisky as you travel with a friendly and knowledgeable guide!

Your tour will head out from Edinburgh Castle to the lovely village of Roslin. There, you will have the opportunity to visit Rosslyn Chapel. Dating back to 1445, the chapel gained worldwide fame thanks to the increasing interest in Freemasonry and the Knights Templar. See the intricate “musical” boxes and green men carved throughout the chapel.

Leave Roslin and continue your journey into the heart of the Scottish Borders in the eastern part of the Scottish Uplands. This area is rich in hills, valleys, rivers, and moorland, and is also the traditional home of Scottish rugby. Travel to the historic town of Melrose, the birthplace of the game of Rugby Sevens and home to of Melrose Abbey.

The Abbey, founded in 1136, is one of the most beautiful religious ruins in the United Kingdom, containing many intricate carved sculptures. It is also said to be the burial place of the embalmed heart of Robert the Bruce. Enjoy a tasty lunch in Melrose and have plenty of free time to explore the town and the abbey.

Before heading back to Edinburgh you will have to option to explore the lowland distillery of Glenkinchie, now owned by Johnnie Walker. Join a tour to learn how whisky is made and taste some of their most popular single malt.

0 Points
Upvote

Report

What do you think?

0 Points
Upvote

Written by Richard Ascough

Tripcurated offers a hand selected collection of the best travel websites and resources from across the web. We find the best travel websites including flights and airfares, accommodation, travel planning, car rental, cruises, tours and tickets, travel finance and more.

Smooth Sailing: Navigating the Best Ferry Comparison Websites for Your Next Adventure

Best Tours of Bhutan