Glen Garioch Distillery
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Glen Garioch Distillery

4.9
·176 reviews·Oldmeldrum, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more personal feel

CrowdLow
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Glen Garioch Distillery

Glen Garioch Distillery

Best Time

Weekday Afternoons

Fewer crowds, more personal feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(176 reviews)

"An amazing experience with clear explanations and excellent whisky!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whisky Tasting Experience

Whisky Tasting Experience

Tasting Room

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

Reddit
Bottle Your Own Whisky

Bottle Your Own Whisky

Bottling Area

A unique opportunity to select and bottle your own single cask whisky, creating a truly personal souvenir.

InstagramReddit
Distillery Tour & History

Distillery Tour & History

Distillery Floors

Explore the historic distillery, learn about the whisky-making process, and delve into its rich heritage since 1797.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Tours at Glen Garioch Distillery are popular, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures your spot and avoids disappointment. Some visitors mention bottling their own whisky, which is a unique experience to consider when booking. InstagramReddit

Pronunciation & Local Charm

The distillery's name, Glen Garioch, is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Embrace the local charm of Oldmeldrum, a picturesque village. Many visitors highlight the friendly staff and the overall welcoming atmosphere, making it more than just a distillery visit. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal feel
Crowd
Low
When
Winter Production Season
Why
See whisky being made
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚨Chocolate Brownie Milkshake🚨 Come in by our shop and try this!! #theicer #aberdeenshire #Scotland #instagram #food #Foodie #coffee #foodinaberdeen #coffeeshop #oldmeldrum #northeastfoodanddrink #aberdeenfood #trending #fyp #foryoupage #tiktok #FoodTok #christmas #festive #hotchocolate #christmasfood #christmastreats #festivefood #winterfood #milkshake #chocolate
@theiceroldmeldrum
1.6K likes • 54.3K views

🎯 Pronounce it Right!

Glen Garioch is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Don't be shy to ask! Instagram+2

🚗 Designated Driver/To-Go

If you're driving, inform staff for a 'to-go' dram. Reddit

Went for lunch with @Doricfither🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 and Pauline to the Morris’s Hotel & Restaurant in #oldmeldrum what a nice wee place and their food was absolutely so fine! And such a lovely team of ladies that work there 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🩷 #aberdeenshire #aberdeen #aberdeenshirebusiness #aberdeenshiretiktok
@thenortheastquine
802 likes • 22.8K views
Last Friday we had the most amazing Glen Garioch tasting with the one and only @simonbrooking 🙌🏻 We went through bottles from the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s. Each decade felt different, tasted different, and reminded us how this distillery has been able to adapt to changing consumer preferences since 1797! (The French Revolution was ending when this distillery was established 🤯 WTF!) We got in...
puremalts
47 likes • 489 views

✨ Book Your Tour

Popular tours fill up fast, especially for unique experiences like bottling. InstagramReddit

🥃 Explore Beyond the 12yr

While the 12-year is popular, older vintages and single casks offer unique tasting notes. Instagram+2

Discover the taste of tradition at Glen Garioch Distillery! 🌿 Nestled in the heart of the charming village of Oldmeldrum. Did you know the name Glen Garioch is pronounced Glen Geery? A touch of ancient Scottish charm that makes this distillery even more unique! Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Glen Garioch Distillery on one of our scheduled tours, Gems of Aberdeenshire, or enhance your ...
dramventure.whiskytours
13 likes • 448 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Pronounce it Right!

Glen Garioch is pronounced 'Glen Geery.' Don't be shy to ask! Instagram+2

🚗 Designated Driver/To-Go

If you're driving, inform staff for a 'to-go' dram. Reddit

✨ Book Your Tour

Popular tours fill up fast, especially for unique experiences like bottling. InstagramReddit

🥃 Explore Beyond the 12yr

While the 12-year is popular, older vintages and single casks offer unique tasting notes. Instagram+2

📍 Oldmeldrum Charm

Enjoy the quaint village of Oldmeldrum before or after your visit. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.9
(176 reviews)

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

Enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides
Unique 'bottle your own' experience
Excellent whisky tastings

What People Dislike

Limited food options on-site

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience

The correct pronunciation of Glen Garioch is 'Glen Geery,' rhyming with 'cheery.' Many visitors find this pronunciation unique and memorable. Instagram+2

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram+2

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. InstagramReddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, Oldmeldrum has local cafes where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and light refreshments. The Icer in Oldmeldrum is mentioned for its treats. TikTok+1

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Glen Garioch is a whisky distillery, the tours can still be engaging for older children who are interested in the process. The historical aspect and the machinery can be fascinating. However, the tasting portions are strictly for adults. Consider booking a shorter tour or focusing on the visual aspects of the distillery. Many visitors mention the friendly staff, who are often accommodating to families. Instagram

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. TikTok

🥃 Whisky Enthusiasts

Glen Garioch is a must-visit for any serious whisky enthusiast. The opportunity to taste whiskies from different decades, including rare vintages, is unparalleled. Instagram The 'bottle your own' experience is a dream for collectors, allowing you to select a unique cask bottling. InstagramReddit The distillery's commitment to traditional methods and its rich history add significant depth to the appreciation of their single malts. Instagram

Beyond the standard tours, inquire about any specialized tastings or warehouse experiences that delve deeper into the nuances of maturation and cask influence. Instagram 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. Instagram+1

🚗 Day-Trippers

Glen Garioch Distillery is an excellent addition to a day trip in Aberdeenshire. Its location in Oldmeldrum makes it easily accessible from Aberdeen and other nearby towns. TikTok Combine your visit with a scenic drive through the countryside, a stop at a local pub for lunch, or exploring other historical sites in the region. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Glen Garioch Whisky Experience

Glen Garioch, pronounced 'Glen Geery,' is one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, with a history dating back to 1797. Instagram+1 Nestled in the charming village of Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire, it offers a quintessential Highland single malt experience. The distillery is known for its traditional production methods, including floor maltings, though this is less common now. Visitors often rave about the quality of the whisky, with expressions ranging from the accessible 12-year-old to more complex single cask bottlings. Instagram+2 The tasting sessions are a highlight, allowing guests to explore the nuanced flavors and aromas that define Glen Garioch. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit The newer Warehouse #4 visitor experience provides an even deeper dive into the maturation process with behind-the-scenes access and cask tastings. Instagram 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. Reddit+1

When planning your visit, remember that booking in advance is crucial, especially for these specialized experiences. InstagramReddit 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. TikTok+1 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

Glen Garioch Distillery is situated in the picturesque village of Oldmeldrum, a charming hub in Aberdeenshire. TikTok+1 Oldmeldrum itself offers a glimpse into traditional Scottish village life, with local shops and a friendly atmosphere. Visitors often combine their distillery tour with a visit to nearby attractions, such as Meldrum House, a historic country hotel and golf course, which provides a different facet of the region's heritage. TikTok

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. TikTok The area is also known for its agricultural heritage, with many local producers offering fresh, regional delicacies. TikTok+1

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. TikTok 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.

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