orkney whiskey tour

Scapa, the Orcadian

Journey over the orcadian horizon.

Welcome to the Orkney Islands.

• Whisky Distilleries

Isle of Orkney Whisky Distilleries

The Orkney Islands is an archipelago off the Northern tip of Scotland and home to some of the best attractions that Scotland has to offer. From World War II historical sites to a rich cultural Neolithic history, there’s plenty to persuade visitors to make their voyage from coastal towns like John o’Groats up to this expansive set of islands. And while paying a visit to a far-flung Orkney whisky distillery may not immediately be on top of your to-do list, this article aims to change that.

The Orkney Islands has distilleries that let you taste award-winning spirits that are perfect to take home as souvenirs, but its definitely recommended that you go on a whisky-tasting tour throughout the Isle and see which ones are to your favour – here are the top Orkney distilleries that need to be on your list the next time you visit.

Highland Park Whisky Distillery

The Orkney Islands are filled with wild and untameable elements, and Highland Park Whisky Distillery brings those Orkney flavours into their delicious whisky. They’re one of the only whisky distilleries that turn malt by hand, which is difficult but rewarding work – with the end result being a fine spirit you can’t get enough of.

The secret to their whisky is the aromatic peak from Hobbister Moor that they use, which instils their smooth whisky with an immense flavour. Don’t leave this Isle without paying a visit to this Orkney distillery.

Scapa Distillery Visitor Centre

Situated on the historic Scapa Flow, where you can find the World War II shipwrecks, you can pay a visit to the Scapa Distillery. Scapa takes the thousands of years of shifting skies and rich people and distils into a truly fine single malt whisky.

The Distillery is open all year round, meaning you can book your distillery tour or whisky tasting no matter when you’re planning to the Orkney Islands. The Orcadian experience lets you explore the warehouse landmarks that house and supply the production of bottling whisky – you can even taste a dram straight from the casks!

Deerness Distillery

The Deerness Distillery was established in 2006 and has been producing the finest spirits that Orkney Isles offer, including gins, vodkas, whiskies, and other liqueurs. Their whisky is absolutely fantastic and distils the natural ingredients of the Isle harmoniously.

Using moderately peated malt, Deerness Distillery has crafted spirits to give our whisky a rich, smoky flavour that’s perfectly balanced with hints of sweetness and spice. This wild harmony matches the Orkney Isle to a tee and goes excellently with a bit of Highland food and a view out to the wild coasts.

Kimbland Whisky Distillery

If you think that the Orkney Islands is a great challenge to reach, then the Kimbland Whisky Distillery is the ultimate place for adventurous whisky lovers. In fact, Kimbland holds the title of the northernmost Scotch distillery that offers tours, tastings, and plenty more! All centred around their award-winning whisky, which also is the world’s first carbon-negative whisky company.

So, from seed to bottling, you can enjoy the intricate and dedicated process that goes into this Orkney distillery whisky. So, if you can manage to book a ship that takes you to this far-flung and remote part located on the Orkney islands, then make sure you do so!

There’s a magic in the air when you visit Kimbland Whisky that is not easy to describe, but you’ll absolutely feel it when you take your first sip of whisky from Orkney.

Other Whisky Distilleries in Scotland

• Campbeltown Whisky Distilleries
• Glasgow Whisky Distilleries
• Isle of Islay Whisky Distilleries
• Isle of Mull Whisky Distilleries
• Isle of Skye Whisky Distilleries
• Lowland Whisky Distilleries

Graham Grieve

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Highland Park Distillery (Photo by Scottish Viewpoint)

Distillery Tours on Orkney

August 7, 2017 –––––– Gavin D Smith , , , ,

Highland Park

All tours should be booked in advance. Visit the website for tour hours and details. A variety of tours is offered, with costs ranging from $9.40 to $1,253. Pricing is indicative of the number of whiskies made available for sampling, the experiences, and the souvenirs that are included. The ultimate experience includes a day working at the distillery, turning the malt, stoking the kiln, visiting Hobbister Moor and other landmarks, before dinner and a tutored tasting. A hand-filled single cask expression of Highland Park is available for $113.

All tours should be booked in advance. Visit the website for tour details and hours. All tours include a dram to sample. The Scapa Tour costs $12, while the Scapa Experience—with additional whiskies to sample—costs $24. Private tours are also available.

Image Credit:

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Orkney & Northern Highlands Scotland Whisky Tour: May 31 - June 8, 2025

Sightseeing, your leader.

Holly Seidewand, aka @ herwhiskylove on Instagram, is one of the leading experts on Scotch whisky in the United States. She got her start in whisky by traveling the world and writing about distilleries on her blog Her Whisky Love . Since then, she was the whisky buyer at Gordons in Boston, the North American Brand Ambassador for Bacardi’s Single Malt Scotch Portfolio and currently is co-owner of First Fill Spirits in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Holly has co-led multiple Rascal + Thorn tours and is the leader of this wonderful trip to the West Coast of Scotland. We are excited to have Holly educate and guide this group. This is a very intimate group limited to 4-6 guests. Because of this limited size, Holly can provide true one-on-one education and experience of what you are seeing and tasting!

Distillery Visits

This is a whisky tour and distillery visits are the key experience. We will visit some of the best in the Northern Highlands and on the Orkney Islands. Our group will be spend 8 nights traveling around the Northern Coast. Because of the limited group size, Holly will be able to showcase these distilleries with more elevated experiences.

Some of the distilleries on this trip include Highland Park, Scapa, Wolfburn, Glenmorangie, Balblair, Dornoch and more!

Other Cultural Excursions

Scotland is whisky heaven, but it is also one of the most beautiful countries on earth! On this trip you will visit some beautiful places and take it all in. It’s important to add some cultural sightseeing as well, and this trip will be a nice balance between both whisky and culture.

And food! We will be sure to reserve spots at some of our favorite dining establishments along the Northern Highlands as we travel around.

• Not Included
• Accomodations

Distilleries

• Highland Park
• Glenmorangie
• Ferry trips
• A visit to the Dunrobin Castle & Gardens
• A journey and walks through Orkney
• Historical Sights in Orkney
• Special Tastings
• Other cultural sights

**Please note, this itinerary is subject to change.

Saturday – Arrive to Glasgow and the group meets around noon to head straight south for one night in Inverness. We will have dinner and spend one night in Inverness.  *We recommend spending Friday night in Glasgow. 

Sunday – Depart Inverness for Orkney for 3 nights in Kirkwall. We will hit a distillery/cultural site or two along the way and catch the ferry to Orkney in the evening.

Monday – On Orkney. Cultural sights followed by a visit to Scapa Distillery.

Tuesday – On Orkney. Cultural sights followed by a visit to Highland Park Distillery.

Wednesday – Return to the Northern Highland for 4 nights. Afternoon visit to Wolfburn Distillery.

Thursday – Visits to Old Pulteney, Clynelish and Glenmorangie Distilleries.

Friday – Visit the Dunrobin Castle, Balblair and Dornoch Distilleries.

Saturday – Return to Inverness for our final night. Visit to Dalmore.

Sunday – Departure from Inverness – end of tour.

• 8-night stay in Scotland
• Transportation within Scotland
• Distillery Tours and Tastings
• 7 breakfasts (hotel)
• All taxes and tips
• Transportation to or from Scotland (air) before/after tour
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Alcoholic drinks during included meals, unless noted
• Travel Insurance (recommended)

We select the best hotel for the group in Scotland’s cities with walking access to restaurants and all local attractions.

$4995 USD Per Person (double occupancy) Only 2 spots remain!

A deposit of $1495 is due to secure a place on the trip.

Reservations are taken on a first-come / first-serve basis.  Limited spaces available on this trip and it will fill up due to the size of the group and popularity of this destination.

Single Supplement $1500

Final payment is due 90 days prior to the start of the tour. Please contact us for a Reservation Form or to ask any questions about the trip. We look forward to traveling with you!

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rascalandthorn

Our @rascalandthorn Water of Life Collaboration Tour continued to Glenglassaugh Distillery. Such great hospitality by Stewart Buchanan, Global Brand Ambassador. A visit to the Sandend Beach, full Distillery Tour and a fabulous tasting and feast to end with. What a great afternoon! The Sandend tasted like the beach! .... #whisky #wateroflife #whiskytour #singlemalt #singlemaltwhisky #dramagram #scotland #scotch #scotchwhisky #rascalandthorn #dramoftheday #glenglassaugh #glenglassaughdistillery #slainté

We started our 2nd @rascalandthorn Collaboration Whisky Tour with @wateroflifefilm with a visitor to Tormore Distillery in the Speyside Region of Scotland. It was really an incredible visit to the distillery with one of their Senior Distillery Managers, George, who took us through everything in detail. Then off to barrel making, hands on, and a trip to the water source for more drams! And to sample from the spring. A great way to kick off our 2nd Tour with @weedrambigman. ..... #whisky #rascalandthorn #wateroflife #speyside #singlemalt #singlemaltwhisky #scotland #scotch #scotchwhisky #dramagram #instadram #tormore #elixir #slainté

Our private, small group tour of Copenhagen, Denmark and areas nearby is now over, but what a fun, beautiful and delicious tour it was! Let us do a bespoke, private, small group tour for you! Thanks to @koancph @danielberlinrestaurant @rasmusmunkalchemist @restaurantalchemist @jatakcph @barrcph @stauningwhisky @stauningwhisky_hans @barrymeindrinks @bird.cph @rubycph @restaurantkadeau @arvekrognes @kennethsoendergaard @prologcoffee.cph @jonasgehl @warpigs_brewpub_cph @konghanskaelder @lisaabend @hartbageri @lidkoeb @nwcurtin @restaurant_geranium @nomacph @restaurantlyst #gastrotour #gastrotourism #privatetours #travelwithdoc #traveltoeat

We are excited to announce our next Whisky Tour! This is a very small group tour of 4-6 guests that will be led by Holly Seidewand, aka @herwhiskylove. This trip will consist of 8 nights along the West Coast of Scotland with stays in Oban, Fort William and on the islands of Mull and Skye. Distilleries that will be included are Oban, Tobermory, Ardnamurchan, Ben Nevis, Torabhaig, Talisker, Raasay and more. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland. For more information, please visit the link in our Bio. Sláinte! ...... #whisky #scotland #whiskytour #singlemalt #singlemaltwhisky #dramagram #instadram

An incredible evening with wonderful people at a spectacular place eating and drinking sensational food and drink. The Menu: Rascal + Thorn Presents Oswaldo Oliva in the Catskills RAW husk cherry, nopal, nuez de castilla, spruce LOBSTER maine lobster, brioche, mexican furikake SOUP huitlacoche, wild maitake, pipicha MOLE Kilcoyne Farms rib eye, mole negro, chile glaze PUDDING mezcal, corn, rye Thanks to everyone who helped to make this happen, especially @oswaldo.oliva.rico @fabianfloresrom @mostlywildnfree , @c_kave @breezedrem and the entire outstanding team @deermountaininn with a very, special thanks to Artem Grishin!!! Please see a coming-up reel for a more complete picture of this our 10th guest chef dinner of our #randtguestchefseries #randtoliva2023 #randtoliva23 #catskills

We are thrilled to feature the Tequilas of @tequilaherraduramx at tonight’s Guest Chef dinner with @oswaldo.oliva.rico of Mexico City’s @lorea @alelirooftop @antesala.cdmx and @supertyrano at the spectacular @deermountaininn in the Catskills. Tickets available til 3pm or sold out, whichever comes first.

We believe in experiential travel.  Whether it is the art of crafting the perfect dish, or the method of producing a special spirit, Rascal & Thorn provides the ultimate experience in gastronomic travel.

Photos from Charles Grabitzky's post … See More See Less

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Just back from our private tour to Copenhagen, enjoying some wonderful words from our wonderful clients. … See More See Less

We are excited to announce our next Whisky Tour! This is a very small group tour of 4-6 guests that will be led by Holly Seidewand, aka @herwhiskylove. This trip will consist of 8 nights along the West Coast of Scotland with stays in Oban, Fort William and on the islands of Mull and Skye. Distilleries that will be included are Oban, Tobermory, Ardnamurchan, Ben Nevis, Torabhaig, Talisker, Raasay and more. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland.

For more information, please visit: www.rascalandthorn.com/scotland-west-coast-whisky-tour-2024/

……

#whisky #scotland #whiskytour #singlemalt #singlemaltwhisky #dramagram #instadram … See More See Less

1 Comment Comment on Facebook

My favorite part of Scotland. Great whiskey, great hiking, beautiful waterways and FYI a fantastic beer called Dirty Blonde is made in Oban😉

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The Orkney Disitllery Bar and Visitor Centre

Orkney Distillery Tour

Guided tour of the Orkney Distillery, home to Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin. Our distillery tours run at 11am and 2pm each day (except Sundays) with extra tours added for peak times.

Guided tours start with a short audio-visual presentation describing the story of our gin and the history of our islands. Your guide will then show you the working processes of the distillery and how our gin is hand-crafted in small batches, detailing the unique blend of Orkney-grown botanicals that we use to create our spirit. Finally, we head to the tasting room to relax and sample our range of gins, then to the bar where you can enjoy your perfect Gin and Tonic. Tours will last approximately 1 hour and include a complimentary gin and tonic and a discount in our shop.

From £15 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (1856) 875338
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Key facilities

• Level Access
• Pets Welcome
• Disabled Parking

Tour information

• Small Group (1-16)

Tour prices

From £15 Per Adult £8 Per Child

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour company information

Orkney distilling ltd.

Situated on Kirkwall’s harbour-front, the Orkney Distillery is the ideal attraction for gin enthusiasts looking for a quality visitor experience in the heart of Orkney’s main town. Our distillery tours run at 11am and 2pm each day (except Sundays) with extra tours added for peak times. During the off-peak season there is one tour per day at 2pm (except Sundays). You can check live availability and book online through our website. And it’s not just for adults. Children can enjoy the tours too (without alcohol of course) and we have goody bags to keep the little ones occupied.

Social Channels

Visit Orkney Distilling Ltd

Opening times

Monday to Thursday: 10am - 5pm Friday and Saturday: 10am - 1am Sunday: 10am - 5pm

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

Orkney & Scotland's Northern Coast 5 day tour

Escape to Scotland’s extreme Northern Coast and Orkney on this magical tour from Edinburgh.

Tour Highlights

Orkney Isles - These beautiful islands are full of ancient history and wildlife.

Glencoe and Rannoch Moor - Be moved by the sheer beauty and tragic tales of one of Scotland’s most famous landscapes.

Loch Ness - Take a chance to spot the famous Loch Ness Monster.

Skara Brae and Ring of Brodgar - Learn how people used to live in ancient times at these prehistoric monuments.

North Coast 500 - A rollercoaster road of ruined castles, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages

Culloden - A sad place to visit. It’s the location of a tragic Outlander scene, and a catastrophic battle between Jacobites and Government troops.

John o'Groats* - Look out to the North Sea at the island of Britain's most northerly point.

Your journey

The archipelago of Orkney hides many treasures: and on our five day tour, your experienced guide will ensure you find the best of them.

You’ll unearth some of the most well-preserved prehistoric sites in Europe, examine a beautiful red sandstone coast, and discover the vibrant culture of remote island communities.

You’ll also have a chance to find the Loch Ness Monster, see Scotland’s beautiful north, and learn about the tragedy of Glencoe.

It’s an experience you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Tour Details

Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)

• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour.
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Tour accommodation
• Gaze upon lovely lochs as you venture north
• Listen and learn about the tragic tale of Glencoe

Leave Edinburgh and head west past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. You pass Doune Castle before stopping in the small town of Callander for a refreshment. After crossing the Fault Line into the magnificent Highlands, you take in the splendour of Loch Lubnaig, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, and Glen Dochart.

You admire spectacular views and listen to a haunting story in Glencoe before you continue north up the Great Glen to the mysterious beauty of Loch Ness.

The loch is 23 miles long and you have plenty of time to try and spot the monster.

You arrive at Inverness, where you’re dropped off at your booked accommodation. The evening is free for you to explore the 'Capital of the Highlands'.

• Arrive in the Capital of Orkney, Kirkwall
• Explore mainland Scotland’s most northern scenery

It’s an early start, leaving behind the 'Capital of the Highlands', crossing over the Black Isle, and continuing past Dunrobin Castle.

From here, you drive along the northeast Highland coastline, travelling into some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery.

Onwards through Scotland's most northerly mainland village, John o' Groats*, and then to Gills Bay, where you board the ferry, and cross the Pentland Firth into the Orkney Archipelago.

It’s a short drive to the famous Italian Chapel where you stop for a visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, Capital of Orkney. Here you can visit Kirkwall's magnificent Viking Cathedral and enjoy its historic winding streets in the evening.

*Ferry timetables vary depending on the season. Due to this, a visit to John o'Groats may not be possible.   

• Go to an ancient site that is older than the pyramids, Skara Brae
• See the wild ocean clash with redstone cliffs

Today is your chance to explore this archipelago’s fertile green pastures, fringed by shores of golden sands and washed by waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

You visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar, and the Druidic standing stones of Stenness.

You then travel onto Maeshowe*, where in the 12th century the Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions.

Then it’s back to Kirkwall for your second night after what is sure to be a memorable day.

*Please note that unfortunately Maeshowe will be closed on 6/10/24, which mean the tour that departs on 4/10/24 will be unable to visit the site. We apologise for the inconvenience.

• Stroll around the beautiful harbour town of Ullapool
• Take a look at the stunningly located ruins of Ardvreck Castle

After a relaxed start*, you leave Orkney and sail the Viking waters back to the mainland. From here, you travel the old road right across the very top of Scotland, driving past the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, following the rocky cliffs and stunning golden sand beaches.

You then visit the far northwest Highlands and the wilderness of the mountains of Assynt before stopping to view the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle.

From here, you travel to Ullapool, situated at the mouth of Loch Broom, a beautiful whitewashed fishing village where you spend your last night's stay on tour.

*Ferry timetables vary depending on the season. Due to this, passengers may have less time in Kirkwall in the morning as the ferry departs earlier.

• See the ancient standing stones made famous by Outlander, Clava Cairns
• Learn about one of the most brutal events in British history at Culloden

Leaving Ullapool behind, you take in the drama of the River Droma as it plunges 60m down into Corrieshalloch Gorge. You then admire the beautiful Loch Glascarnoch, on the way past the 'Capital of the Highlands', Inverness.

You can visit Culloden Moor, the site of The Battle of Culloden in 1746, one of the bloodiest events in our history and the last battle to have been fought on the British mainland. Next, you take a short drive to the ancient standing stones at Clava Cairns, made famous by Diana Gabaldon in the ‘Outlander’ books.

From here, you travel through the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, hugging the Cairngorm mountain range. You enjoy lunch in these beautiful surroundings before travelling through The Big Tree country of Perthshire, the Kingdom of Fife, and back to Edinburgh.

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

• Culloden VC, Museum & Battlefield

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight.

You stay one night in Inverness, then two nights in Kirkwall on Orkney, and the final night in Ullapool*.

* Please be aware that Ullapool is busy all year round and Kirkwall is busy between June and August . You may need to be flexible with rooms we're able to reserve for you here. If you'd prefer to find your own accommodation for this location, please choose the 'book your own accommodation' option when you book your tour.

How can I book accommodation?

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour. To book accommodation, there are two options: either Rabbie’s Tours can book it for you, or you can book your own. For information on how to do this, please see the ‘Accommodation’ tab on FAQ page HERE .

Alternatively, please email us your questions at [email protected] or call us on +44(0)131 226 3133.

Information you can find on the FAQ page, under the ‘Accommodation’ tab : types of accommodation, room types, the booking process, getting to and from your accommodation, and cancellation terms.

How much will the accommodation cost?

We book accommodation with third-party providers on your behalf and each property sets their own rates. Rates vary considerably depending on the accommodation standard, facilities, location, and local demand. We therefore can’t tell you exactly how much your accommodation will cost until your request has been allocated to a specific property.

As a guide, you can expect to pay the following prices,  per person per night :

NOTE: Prices quoted are for guidance only and may be higher on some occasions, especially for last-minute bookings and when demand is high (E.g. peak season, weekends, holidays, special events etc)

Breakfast will be included unless otherwise noted. The type of breakfast provided will vary from place to place so you may receive either a full cooked breakfast, a continental style breakfast (E.g., toast, fruit, cereal), or a packed breakfast bag or tray (E.g., porridge pot, fruit, granola bar).

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email [email protected] , or check out our full FAQs .

Restrictions

Customer reviews.

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Prices from £489.00

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Reflecting the boldness of our seafaring Norse ancestors, the clarity of our seas and the purity of our air, Kirkjuvagr is a hand-crafted Orkney gin for the modern, discerning gin enthusiast. Sign up to our mailing list to be part of our story and get early access to new product and discount announcements. PLUS get 10% off your first order of Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin*.

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The Home of Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin

Orkney distillery tours.

We invite you to enter our new distillery and visitor centre in Kirkwall, to toast the gods and learn the secrets behind our legendary Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin.

Situated on Kirkwall’s harbour-front, The Orkney Distillery is the ideal attraction for gin enthusiasts looking for a quality visitor experience in the heart of Orkney’s main town. You can check live availability and book online through our website. We also have options for designated drivers and U18s to enjoy the tour alcohol-free.

• Get a guided tour through the Orkney Distillery 
• Learn about the distilling process of our gin & whisky products
• Learn about the key botanicals we use in our gin range
• See production area up close 
• Sample our gins whilst overlooking Kirkwall’s harbour 
• Relax with a coffee or gin and purchase bottles to take away 

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How to Find Us

further information

Situated in the main area of our distillery and visitor centre, the Coffee & Gin Bar is an ideal place to relax and watch Kirkwall’s bustling harbour-front. You can join us before or after your tour, or just pop along to speak to our knowledgeable staff about our Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin and merchandise.

Bottles of our Kirkjuvagr Orkney Gin are available to buy from our retail area. We also have a range of merchandise on offer including cocktail glasses, bar blades, sweet treats and more. We’ll be adding more merchandise over time.

Disabled access available including lift access to the first floor.

Cancellation Policy

Cancelled Orkney Distillery and Visitor Centre tour bookings will be subject to a cancellation charge of £10 per head up to 48 hours prior to your booking, and no refund will be offered for cancellations within 48 hours of your booking. Please call us on Tel: 01856 875338 if you require to discuss further.

We reserve the right to refuse the sale of alcohol under the terms of the Licensing (Scotland) 2005 Act.

In the event of total closure of the distillery, any tickets issued for tours on the day of closure will be exchanged or refunded at the price paid for them but no further compensation will be offered.

We reserve the right to alter the content, times and prices of our tours.

Walk-in Bookings

Due to changing Government Guidelines and restrictions, pre-booking for a tour is currently essential. Our visitor experience has been re-designed to ensure stricter cleaning regimes and social distancing can be maintained for the safety of our visitors and staff. We hope to welcome back Walk-in bookings in the near future as our daily running practices revert back to ‘normal’. 

Accessibility

The Orkney Distillery and Visitor Centre has an accessible entrance from Ayre Road, accessible toilets and a lift to allow all visitors to reach the first floor.

Conditions of Entry

Under 18s are permitted in the distillery and we provide activities for this age group. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tours are open to all ages with a reduced rate for under 18s where no alcohol is provided. Please be aware that we operate under the ‘Challenge 25’ Policy and as such, we may ask for photo ID as proof of age. If you have paid for a full price ticket but cannot provide proof of age when requested we regret that no refunds can be given.

Any individual, or group of individuals who are intoxicated will be refused entry and not offered a refund or exchange.

We support the Scottish Government’s Zero Tolerance campaign towards drinking & driving, and recommend visitors who intend to consume alcohol arrive on foot, or by public transport.

Photography

Photography is permitted except in the distillery room. However, we don’t allow filming unless you’ve made prior arrangements with us and provide the relevant compliance and insurance documents. From time to time we or other authorised third parties may carry out photography or other recording at the distillery and any images or recordings may feature visitors. Visitors consent to the use of such images by us in connection with advertising, promotions or monitoring and acknowledge that the copyright in such images rests with us and/or any authorised third party of Orkney Distilling Ltd.

Health & Safety

The distillery is a controlled working and manufacturing environment, and you should exercise due care and attention on the tour. Distillery staff may draw your attention to specific health & safety procedures to which you must adhere. If the fire alarm sounds during your tour the tour guide will direct you to the nearest exit and muster point.

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A Guide to Vacationing on the Orkney Islands

Quintessentially Scottish coastlines, whiskey distilleries, and Stone Age remains are just a ferry ride away.

In the North Sea just beyond the tip of Scotland, the Orkney Islands often fail to register with tourists. Almost never are they included on any list of Europe's highlights , but why? Because, despite their "island" title, they don't offer white-sand, umbrella-clad beaches, or a balmy Mediterranean climate à la Greece and Spain?

Instead, this scattered archipelago of 70 islands — two thirds of which are uninhabited — has a time-worn, slightly mystical charm of its own. On the Orkney Islands, visitors are rewarded with storm-battered cliffs, ancient stone circles, and ominous-looking "sea stacks" rising from the churning blue water like swords.

Though the Orkney Islands are just 10 miles off the mainland and entirely accessible by ferry from the northern coast, including from Gills Bay and John O'Groats, or by plane from Aberdeen and major U.K. cities, getting there typically requires a few hours and multiple modes of transportation. The farthest-north ferry terminals (i.e., the ones that offer 40- to 60-minute rides) are at least a 2.5-hour drive from Inverness, and the perhaps more-convenient ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall takes six hours. The quickest way to travel to the islands is via a 45-minute flight from Inverness to Kirkwall.

Rest assured, the journey is worth it. On Orkney, you'll find a thriving capital with shops and tour operators, frequent ferry service connecting the islands, and one of Europe's highest concentrations of ancient Neolithic sites, all of which are open to visitors. So, ready to plan a trip? Here's everything you need to know before traveling to the Orkney Islands.

Visit an ancient site.

Mainland (the largest of the Orkney Islands) is packed with prehistoric treasures and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Start off with a visit to the Ring of Brodgar , a stone circle that, at an estimated 4,500 years old, is similar in age to Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Somehow, 27 of its original 60 stones remain standing after all this time, and the experience of walking around these ancient monuments is nothing short of breathtaking.

Nearby Skara Brae is a preserved Stone Age settlement that was uncovered in 1850 when a particularly violent storm blew away all the sand that had concealed it for centuries. Here, you can make out walls and furnishings that were hand-laid by humans more than 5,000 years ago. And if you like the idea of sleeping alongside the prehistoric ruins, it's possible to rent an apartment inside Skaill House , a lovely 17th-century farm manor that sits 600 feet from the archeological site.

Go for a coastal hike.

With the raging North Sea beneath you and a particularly vibrant wildflower display occurring each spring, the Orkney Islands make for very memorable hiking. On western Mainland, you can walk the rugged coastline on a 10-mile path that takes you right to the edge of the cliffs. It offers fantastic views of the sea stacks, those teetering rock formations hewn from the island by the waves.

For something more guided, book a tour with the private company Orkney Uncovered , which offers themed expeditions all over the islands.

Take the world's shortest flight.

Once you've made it to the Orkney Islands from mainland Scotland, there are plenty of ways to get around. Travelers can jump on a bus, catch additional ferries, or head off in a rental car. But much like in the Faroe Islands to the north, there are also inter-island flights, these ones operated by a Scottish airline called Loganair . Among the destinations (like Eday, North Ronaldsay, Sanday, and Stronsay) is a 1.7-mile route that connects Westray to Papa Westray. At just under two minutes, it's officially the world's shortest flight .

Spend the night in Kirkwall.

The capital of Orkney, Kirkwall, is a city rich with culture and history. Records show it was an important trade center as early as the 11th century. Today, it's a bustling commercial hub, with restaurants, bars, theaters, and a nice mix of shops selling locally designed jewelry, crafts, and apparel. At St. Magnus Cathedral , a Viking-era sandstone cathedral dating back to 1137, visitors who sign up for a guided tour are permitted to climb the bell tower. Among Kirkwall's many lodging options are the family-run Ayre Hotel and the Victorian-themed Kirkwall Hotel , which both overlook the marina.

Beyond Kirkwall, it's also worth making the 20-minute drive to Stromness, the second most-populated town in Orkney. With its rows of tiny, centuries-old stone houses set against the water, it boasts one of the dreamiest harbor views in all of Europe.

Go camping in the summer.

With so much open space, it's unsurprising that many travelers want to sleep under the stars during the warmer months. Book a glamping pod or campsite at Wheems Organic Farm , an eco-lodge on a 200-year-old working farm. The property faces the sea on the island South Ronaldsay, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding cliffs and, depending on the time of year, the Northern Lights . While the property's winning feature is its remoteness, a causeway connects South Ronaldsay to Mainland, so you're never more than a half-hour drive back to Kirkwall.

Drink Scottish whiskey.

In true Scottish fashion, there are several whiskey distilleries on the Orkney Islands. Most famous of them is Highland Park , which until recently was the U.K.'s northernmost distillery. ( Kimbland Distillery , on the Orkney island of Sanday, is about 20 miles further north.) Highland Park's single malt has won numerous awards and accolades — and, because it's been making the stuff since 1798, no one is really questioning the distillery's expertise. During a tour of the facilities, visitors learn all about how the barley is steeped in water fresh from a nearby creek, then aged in Spanish oak casks seasoned with sherry. And yes, the tour ends with a tasting.

Related Articles

Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness

The Speyside Distillery Tour from Inverness offers whisky enthusiasts an immersive journey through the rich heritage of Scotland’s renowned Speyside region. Participants can expect a captivating 6-hour private experience, exploring renowned distilleries and sampling unique whiskies under the guidance of knowledgeable hosts. With a maximum group size of three, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience, catering to the preferences of each guest. While the itinerary promises to delight the senses, the true allure lies in the opportunity to uncover the secrets and stories that have made Speyside a mecca for whisky connoisseurs worldwide.

• A 6-hour private group experience visiting Glen Moray, Cardhu, and Glenlivet distilleries in the Speyside whisky region, starting at Kč26,614 for up to 3 participants.
• Includes a 90-minute Legacy tour and whisky sampling at Glen Moray, a complimentary tasting of Johnnie Walker’s four corners at Cardhu, and 45 minutes for shopping and tasting at Glenlivet.
• Wheelchair-accessible transportation with an English-speaking driver, and accessible facilities at the distilleries, ensuring an inclusive experience for travelers of all abilities.
• Opportunity to explore the distinct characteristics and rich heritage of Speyside’s renowned whiskies, with a focus on Glen Moray’s Legacy whisky and Johnnie Walker’s blend.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility to adjust plans without penalties.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle From Inverness
• Isle of Skye Full Day Private Tour From Inverness
• Loch Ness & Culloden Battlefield Private Tour From Inverness
• Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Small-Group Day Tour From Inverness

Tour Overview

The Speyside Distillery Tour from Inverness is a 6-hour private group experience that takes visitors on a journey through the heart of Scotland’s renowned whisky region .

Priced from Kč26,614 per group (up to 3 participants), the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary highlights include visits to Glen Moray, Cardhu, and Glenlivet distilleries, where participants can enjoy guided tours , whisky samplings , and shopping.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and an English-speaking driver is provided for the group’s convenience.

This tour allows visitors to explore the unique flavors of Speyside whisky and sample some of Scotland’s finest drams.

Itinerary Highlights

Glen Moray Distillery kicks off the Speyside Distillery Tour with a 90-minute Legacy tour and whisky sampling .

Next, visitors head to Cardhu Distillery for a complimentary tasting of the four corners of Johnny Walker Blended whisky.

The final stop is Glenlivet Distillery, where guests enjoy 45 minutes for shopping and tasting .

Throughout the tour, participants have the opportunity to experience the unique flavours of Speyside whisky and sample some of Scotland’s finest drams.

The itinerary highlights provide a well-rounded introduction to the rich whisky heritage of the Speyside region.

Booking Information

Visitors checking availability for the Speyside Distillery Tour can easily do so on the booking platform. The tour offers flexibility, allowing guests to reserve their spot without upfront payment. To secure a tour, simply check the available start times and make a reservation.

The Speyside Distillery Tour is a private group experience, with hotel collection included. Guests can look forward to a unique whisky tasting adventure in the heart of the Speyside region.

Accessibility

The Speyside Distillery Tour is wheelchair accessible , ensuring that all guests can partake in the whisky tasting experience . This tour caters to travelers of all abilities, providing a seamless and inclusive experience.

The tour’s English-speaking driver is knowledgeable and helpful , guiding visitors through the distilleries.

The key accessibility features of the tour include:

• Wheelchair-friendly transportation to and from the distilleries.
• Accessible facilities at the Glen Moray, Cardhu, and Glenlivet distilleries.
• Attentive assistance from the driver and distillery staff for guests with special needs .
• Accommodations for any dietary requirements or allergies during the whisky tastings.

Whisky Experience

Within the Speyside Distillery Tour , visitors can enjoy the unique flavours of Scotland’s renowned Speyside whisky.

The tour includes sampling some of the country’s finest whiskies, allowing participants to experience the distinct characteristics of the region’s distilleries. From the subtleties of Glen Moray’s Legacy whisky to the balanced blend of Johnnie Walker’s four corners, the tour provides a comprehensive whisky tasting experience.

Guests can also explore the Glenlivet Distillery , browsing the shop and enjoying additional tastings.

This immersive whisky journey offers a chance to explore the rich history and flavour profiles that have made Speyside a celebrated whisky-producing area.

Distilleries Visited

The Speyside Distillery Tour takes guests on a captivating journey through some of the region’s most renowned distilleries .

The tour includes visits to:

Glen Moray Distillery, where visitors embark on a 90-minute Legacy tour and enjoy a whisky sampling .

Cardhu Distillery, where they can savor a complimentary tasting of the four corners of the iconic Johnnie Walker Blended whisky.

Glenlivet Distillery, providing 45 minutes for shopping and tasting the distillery’s finest expressions.

These distilleries offer a unique opportunity to take in the rich heritage and exceptional flavors that define the Speyside region’s whisky tradition.

Tour Duration and Price

On a 6-hour journey from Inverness, the Speyside Distillery Tour offers an immersive whisky experience at a price of from Kč26,614 per group (up to 3 participants). The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for guests. Participants can expect a private group experience with hotel collection, ensuring a personalized touch. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and an English-speaking driver is provided, catering to diverse needs.

The Speyside Distillery Tour promises a unique exploration of the region’s finest whiskies, with opportunities to sample some of Scotland’s most renowned spirits.

Cancellation Policy

The Speyside Distillery Tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing guests with added flexibility and peace of mind when booking their experience.

This policy allows travelers to cancel their tour for a full refund if their plans change, without incurring any penalties.

The key details of the cancellation policy are:

• Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
• The cancellation must be made directly with the tour operator.
• Refunds will be processed to the original payment method used for booking.
• The tour is non-refundable if canceled within 24 hours of the scheduled departure time.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that guests can book the Speyside Distillery Tour with confidence, knowing that they can adjust their plans if necessary.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• The Ultimate Isle of Skye Day Tour From Inverness
• Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour From Inverness
• Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5pm)
• Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Tour From Inverness
• Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour From Inverness
• Inverness Bike Tour a 2 Hours Guided Bike Tour Around the Waterways of Inverness

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum group size for this tour.

The tour accommodates up to 3 participants per group. It’s a private group experience, allowing guests to enjoy the Speyside whisky distilleries at their own pace with a dedicated driver and guide.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Distilleries?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary cannot be customized to visit specific distilleries. It follows a pre-set schedule that includes visits to Glen Moray, Cardhu, and Glenlivet distilleries. The tour is a private group experience with a maximum of 3 participants.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Whisky Tasting Glasses?

You don’t need to bring your own whisky tasting glasses for this tour. The distilleries provide the necessary glassware for the tastings, so you can simply relax and enjoy sampling the unique flavors of Speyside whisky.

Will There Be Any Free Time for Exploring Speyside on My Own?

Yes, the tour includes 45 minutes of free time at the Glenlivet Distillery, allowing participants to explore the distillery and its surroundings on their own and do some shopping or additional tastings.

Can I Bring My Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. The tour focuses on whisky sampling, but allows flexibility for personal preferences. Bringing additional drinks won’t interfere with the overall experience or activities scheduled during the excursion.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Glen Affric Guided Winter Walk
• Audio Guide Route 500 – Scotland
• Inverness: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, & Loch Ness Day Tour
• From Inverness: Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle
• Glencoe Tour From Inverness
• Inverness: Loch Ness, Skye, & Eilean Donan Castle Tour
• From Inverness: Speyside Whisky Tour With Tastings
• Inverness Loch Ness Tour
• Inverness: Applecross, Loch Carron & Wild Highlands Day Tour
• Roybridge, Lochaber: CANYONING – Laggan Canyon
• Inverness Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
• Inverness: 2-day Isle of Skye, Fairy Pools & Castles Tour
• Inverness: Private Secret Hike to the Shores of Loch Ness
• Private Glencoe Tour From Inverness
• From Inverness: The Loch Ness Centre

The Speyside Distillery Tour from Inverness offers a captivating 6-hour private experience for whisky enthusiasts . Participants can enjoy visits to renowned distilleries, guided tours, and tastings of unique whiskies. The tour is wheelchair accessible, includes hotel pickup , and features a flexible cancellation policy, ensuring a stress-free and immersive exploration of the rich heritage of the Speyside region.

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