
Glen Garioch Distillery
Discover Scotland's rich whisky heritage at Glen Garioch, a historic Highland distillery offering unique tours and tastings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal feel

Glen Garioch Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal feel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Scotland's rich whisky heritage at Glen Garioch, a historic Highland distillery offering unique tours and tastings.
"An amazing experience with clear explanations and excellent whisky!"

🎯 Pronounce it Right!
Glen Garioch is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Don't be shy to ask!
🚗 Designated Driver/To-Go
If you're driving, inform staff for a 'to-go' dram.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whisky Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor a selection of Glen Garioch's finest single malts, with some tours offering up to three samples.

Bottle Your Own Whisky
Bottling Area
A unique opportunity to select and bottle your own single cask whisky, creating a truly personal souvenir.

Distillery Tour & History
Distillery Floors
Explore the historic distillery, learn about the whisky-making process, and delve into its rich heritage since 1797.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Pronunciation & Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pronounce it Right!
Glen Garioch is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Don't be shy to ask!
🚗 Designated Driver/To-Go
If you're driving, inform staff for a 'to-go' dram.
✨ Book Your Tour
Popular tours fill up fast, especially for unique experiences like bottling.
🥃 Explore Beyond the 12yr
While the 12-year is popular, older vintages and single casks offer unique tasting notes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pronounce it Right!
Glen Garioch is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Don't be shy to ask!
🚗 Designated Driver/To-Go
If you're driving, inform staff for a 'to-go' dram.
✨ Book Your Tour
Popular tours fill up fast, especially for unique experiences like bottling.
🥃 Explore Beyond the 12yr
While the 12-year is popular, older vintages and single casks offer unique tasting notes.
📍 Oldmeldrum Charm
Enjoy the quaint village of Oldmeldrum before or after your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Glen Garioch Distillery for its exceptional tours, knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, and the quality of its single malt whisky. The 'bottle your own' experience and the historical insights are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. While the distillery itself is a draw, the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the staff truly enhances the overall visit, leaving guests impressed and delighted.
"We absolutely loved our tour at Glen Garioch Distillery! It was such an amazing experience. Our guide, Eddie, explained everything so clearly and with great enthusiasm. We learned a lot and enjoyed every moment. Highly recommend this tour – we left truly impressed and delighted!"
Valeriia Kulikova
"Me and my boyfriend are from Argentina. We did the whisky tour few days ago. Hazel was out tour guide. The whole experience was amazing, and Hazel was very clear in her explanations (which was very important for us since we are foreigners) and also very very kind. She didn't do everything on a rush and took her time to explain everything very clearly and in detail. The rest of the staff was also very thoughtful and kind. The distillery is very beautiful and the whisky is excellent! Great experience for us in Glen Garioch."
Milena Toguchi
"BWhat an experience! One of my best tours in a distillery ! Eddie was super nice, very engaging and so charismatic ! I definitely would go back but this time in winter when they are actually producing this beautiful and rich single malt. ❤️ and the best part is that you get to taste 3 samples! Don’t worry if you are driving or not drinking that day, you can let them know and they will give you a “to go” dose. ☺️"
Gabriela Luisa Carvalho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glen Garioch Distillery is located in Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire, about a 30-40 minute drive northeast of Aberdeen. You can drive, take a taxi, or explore local bus routes. Be aware of potential traffic, especially during peak hours or local events.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the distillery for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website for any specific parking instructions or restrictions, especially if you are arriving in a larger vehicle.
Absolutely! Glen Garioch is a great stop for a day trip from Aberdeen or other nearby towns. Many visitors combine it with other local attractions like Meldrum House or coastal villages.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Oldmeldrum and Glen Garioch Distillery, offering flexibility. Public transport options exist but may require more planning. Consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
Yes, Oldmeldrum and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area offer various accommodation options, from charming hotels like Meldrum House to local guesthouses. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary depending on the type of experience, such as standard tours, premium tastings, or the 'bottle your own' experience. It's best to check the official Glen Garioch website for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information.
It is highly recommended to book your distillery tour in advance, especially for popular times or specific experiences like bottling your own whisky. This ensures availability and guarantees your spot.
Glen Garioch Distillery typically operates tours Monday through Saturday. It's essential to check their official website for the exact daily opening hours and tour availability, as these can change seasonally.
Yes, you can purchase a range of Glen Garioch whiskies directly from the distillery shop. This is a great opportunity to find special bottlings or bottles you might not see elsewhere.
A standard tour usually includes a guided walk through the distillery, an explanation of the whisky-making process, and a tasting of one or more of their core range whiskies. Some tours may offer more extensive tastings.
🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience
The correct pronunciation of Glen Garioch is 'Glen Geery,' rhyming with 'cheery.' Many visitors find this pronunciation unique and memorable.
Yes, Glen Garioch offers a unique 'bottle your own' experience where you can select and fill a bottle directly from a cask. This is a highly recommended activity for a personalized souvenir.
Glen Garioch is known for its Highland single malt Scotch whisky. They produce a range of expressions, including their popular 12-year-old, as well as older vintages and single cask bottlings.
Glen Garioch offers various tasting experiences, including historical tastings featuring older vintages and specialized warehouse tours. The 'bottle your own' experience is also a highlight.
Visitors consistently praise the warm, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere at Glen Garioch. The staff are often described as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and accommodating, making for a memorable visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Glen Garioch Distillery primarily focuses on whisky tours and tastings, they do not typically have a full-service restaurant on-site. However, they may offer some light snacks or accompaniments during tastings.
Yes, the village of Oldmeldrum and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area have several excellent dining options. You can find traditional pubs, charming cafes, and restaurants offering local Scottish cuisine.
It's generally not recommended to bring outside food into the tasting areas or tour routes. However, if you're visiting the grounds, you might find designated areas for picnics, but it's best to confirm with the distillery beforehand.
Aberdeenshire is known for its fresh seafood, quality beef and lamb, and traditional Scottish dishes. Don't miss trying Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup) or local game if available.
Yes, Oldmeldrum has local cafes where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and light refreshments. The Icer in Oldmeldrum is mentioned for its treats.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photos are allowed in most public areas of the distillery for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the whisky or equipment. Always check with your guide.
The exterior of the historic distillery buildings, the picturesque village of Oldmeldrum, and the scenic Aberdeenshire countryside offer great photo opportunities. Inside, the stills and cooperage areas can be visually striking.
You can usually take photos of your drams and the tasting setup. However, focus on enjoying the tasting experience itself. Some visitors capture the unique bottles and the ambiance of the tasting room.
Drone usage is typically restricted at operational distilleries and historical sites due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the distillery.
Visitors often capture shots of the iconic distillery architecture, the copper stills, the aging casks in the warehouses, and, of course, the whisky itself. Close-ups of the amber liquid are also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children, Oldmeldrum and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area offer more child-centric activities. Parks, open spaces, and local events like Highland Games can provide entertainment. If visiting the distillery, ensure you have a plan for younger children during the tasting segments, perhaps with one adult supervising while the other participates in the tasting.
🥃 Whisky Enthusiasts
Beyond the standard tours, inquire about any specialized tastings or warehouse experiences that delve deeper into the nuances of maturation and cask influence. Engaging with the knowledgeable guides and staff will provide invaluable insights into the distillery's character and the art of Scotch whisky production. Don't miss the chance to explore their range, from the approachable 12-year-old to limited editions.
🚗 Day-Trippers
To maximize your day, book your distillery tour in advance. Consider a morning tour followed by lunch in Oldmeldrum, or an afternoon tour after exploring other local attractions. Remember to arrange for a designated driver or utilize taxi services if you plan to partake in the whisky tastings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Glen Garioch Whisky Experience
Beyond the standard tours, Glen Garioch offers unique opportunities that elevate the visitor experience. The 'bottle your own' experience is a standout, allowing you to select a cask and fill your own bottle, creating a truly personal memento of your visit. The newer Warehouse #4 visitor experience provides an even deeper dive into the maturation process with behind-the-scenes access and cask tastings. These specialized tours cater to enthusiasts looking for an in-depth understanding and a more hands-on connection with the whisky-making craft. The staff's passion and knowledge are frequently cited as making these experiences exceptional.
When planning your visit, remember that booking in advance is crucial, especially for these specialized experiences. The distillery's location in Oldmeldrum also makes it a perfect addition to a broader Aberdeenshire exploration, combining whisky heritage with the charm of the local landscape. Whether you're a seasoned whisky aficionado or a curious newcomer, Glen Garioch promises an authentic and memorable journey into the heart of Scotch whisky production.
Exploring Oldmeldrum and Aberdeenshire
The wider Aberdeenshire region, often called the 'Granite City' due to its distinctive architecture, is rich in history and natural beauty. From the rugged coastline to the rolling hills of the Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to explore. You can discover ancient castles, scenic walking trails, and vibrant market towns. The area is also known for its agricultural heritage, with many local producers offering fresh, regional delicacies.
For those interested in local culture, attending events like the Oldmeldrum Highland Games can offer a lively experience, showcasing traditional Scottish music, dance, and sports. Whether you're seeking historical insights, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, Aberdeenshire provides a diverse and engaging backdrop to your visit to Glen Garioch Distillery.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit