Whisky Bars of Scotland 2023

TAKE A TOUR OF SCOTLAND’S TOP

Whisky Bars

Welcome

Welcome to this, our sixth edition of ‘Whisky Bars of Scotland’. There may be some familiar bars here and some that are not so familiar., but every one is worth visiting. In total the publication showcases 50 bars from all over Scotland - some are large and some are small, but what they all have in common is an abundance of great whisky.

Whether you are in the Highlands or the Lowlands, the Islands or the West Coast, there is a good chance that there will be a great whisky bar nearby and this guide highlights some of the best places to try.

These days whisky is popular with all ages, and although Scotland is the home of Scotch whisky, our bars all feature a full range of whisk(e)y including popular Japanese and American brands too. Whisky can be enjoyed wherever and whoever you are with and with whatever mixer you favour - straight up, with water, ginger ale, soda or in a cocktail. The bar staff in our friendly bars will be happy to oblige.

This is not the definitive list of whisky bars in Scotland, because we are limited by space, but I am sure you will agree, there is plenty to get you started.

Once again a huge thank you to Edrington UK for supporting this publication.

Sláinte

Susan Young

Cover: The Northern Lights

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Aberdeen & North East

The Bank Bar & Restaurant

Anewcomer to the whisky scene but on familiar turf is The Bank Bar and Restaurant In The Square, Huntly.

The team led by whisky industry veteran Ian Logan, are a dab hand at creating some fantastic whisky cocktails alongside their innovative brunch, lunch and dinner offerings, that are fast gaining a great reputation.

@ thebankrestaurant_huntly/

@thebankhuntly2022

It opened in March this year after an 8-month refurb, this belter of a bar and restaurant is owned by Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky which elevates it into one of the best whisky bars in the area. With over 300 drams on display,

Open daily from 8.30am until 11pm the bar and restaurant is housed in a grade-two listed building dating back to 1841 and designed by Archibald Simpson.

Bertie’s Whisky Bar

The Fife Arms

Mar Road

Braemar

Aberdeenshire AB35 5YN

Tel: 01339 720215

www.thefifearms.com

@thefifearms

fifearms

Bertie’s is an elegant and glamourous whisky bar at the heart of the five-star Fife Arms in Braemar. And like the hotel, nothng is to be expected!

Inspired by Queen Victoria’s eldest son, King Edward VII, also known as Bertie, the bar is a homage to his love of life.

Guests can lose themself in the “labyrinth of whisky bottles arranged like books on a shelf’, says the

website and it is not wrong. The bottles, which are all backlit, cast an amber glow over the room, and creating a sensory experience which almost makes you feel that you are immersed in the liquid.

There are 365 whiskies, one for every day of the year, and they are arranged by flavour profile.

Bertie’s is open Monday to Friday from 8pm to midnight. It is a whisky bar that you really have to experience!

Cheers Cafe Bar & Tavern

10 Broad Street

Fraserburgh AB43 9AH

Tel: 01346 517620

www.cheersfraserburgh.com

@CheersCafeBar

@cheerscafebar

cheerscafebartavern

This friendly tavern, located in Fraserburgh, offers fine food and drinks, affordable accommodation and a full programme of entertainment and events. It really is a must-visit.

Over the years it has won more than 25 national awards including Best Spirits Bar, Family Bar of the year, Best Independent Bar, Beer Garden/Outside Area of the year and an award for Friendliest Bar. which proves it really offears something for everyone.

The bar offers almost 1000 different kinds of spirits, including more than 300 whiskies (malts, blended, bourbon, liqueur and world). It also boasts in excess of 250 gins and more than half are small batch hand crafted premium Scottish ones!

There are six rooms and meals available seven days a week. An overnight stay is highly recommended to enjoy all this venue has to offer!

The Mash Tun

At The Mash Tun you can enjoy locally sourced Scottish contemporary food and Scottish whisky, and stay in one of its five whisky themed rooms situated above the bar area.

MashTunTweeter

mashtunedinburgh

mashtunedinburgh

The bar itself is home to a wide and varied selection of whiskies, both single malts and blends, predominately from Speyside but also incorporating distilleries from the rest of Scotland. Included in this selection is the

exclusive Glenfarclas Family Cask Collection.

The Family Casks is a unique collection of 50 single cask whiskies, with one for each consecutive year from 1952 to 2003. There is no other known collection of rare and old whiskies that covers 52 consecutive years from the same distillery.

Staff at the The Mash Tun are also welcoming, well trained and happy to recommend whiskies to try.

Meldrum House

Oldmeldrum

Aberdeenshire

Scotland AB51 0AE

Tel: 01651 872294

www.meldrumhouse.com

@themeldrum

@meldrumhouse

meldrumhouse

Whisky Bars of Scotland

Meldrum House Country Hotel boasts a very unique whisky bar. - the Cave Bar, which dates back to 1236 and is part of the original manor house’s rich history.

In 2019 the Cave Bar won the accolade Global Hotel Bar of the Year from Whisky Magazine.

It boasts over 120 malts and blends. You’ll also find an Old and Rare cabinet as you walk in, showcasing some of the rarest whiskies available with a few from

distilleries that closed many years ago.

The bar also serves cocktails and has an extensive champagne and wine collection. Beers include local brew Brewdog.

It is open morning, noon and evenings 7 days a week. The hotel now offers its Titan Sky Bar experience which allows guests to enjoy bespoke drinks with views of its iconic manor house, the countryside and sky above. As well as the opportunity to dine in a Dome.

The Station Hotel

Located in the beating heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country, the Station Hotel houses the Spirit Safe whisky bar - complete with an authentic spirit safe and a whisky wall.

Tel:

www.stationhotelspeyside.com

@StationSpeyside stationspeyside thestationhotelspeyside

Customers to the bar on Speyside will find a range of over 500 malts from 60 distilleries – and the actual spirit safe houses some of the hotel’s most collectable drams.

The bar stocks whiskies from all over the world, from Japanese single malts to American bourbons.

The hotel also has Toot’s Cafe Bar and Bistro and the Pagoda Restaurant. You can enjoy the same menu in both.

The luxury boutique hotel was extensively refurbished in 2016 and it has 15 unique bedrooms which make for a very comfortable stay.

The hotel is owned by the Forsyths, who also own Forsyths of Rothes, the company responsible for creating many of the copper stills fundamental to the production of Scotland’s national drink.

Edinburgh

The

Abbey

65 South Clerk Street

Newington, Edinburgh

EH8 9PP

www.abbeybar.co.uk

@abbey_bar_edinburg

The AbbeyBarEdinburgh

Whisky Bars of Scotland

The Abbey is a traditional local whisky bar with one of the largest selections in Edinburgh - over 400 malts and blends from around Scotland and the rest of the world. Whisky lovers travel from far and wide to seek out long forgotten rarities, well known favourites and oddities you will struggle to find elsewhere.

The whisky flight menu features over 30 different tours where you can sample delights from abroad

or past drams from your favourite decade. Whisky tastings are run monthly and new customers are always welcomed warmly by the friendly staff.

It’s not just about whisky however - the extensive food menu sees tourists, students and locals flock here to enjoy freshly made Scottish dishes as well as traditional pub favourites - and it also has a good selection of traditional ales. This family run pub really is a true slice of the Capital.

The Albanach

197 High Street

Edinburgh

EH1 1PE

www.belhavenpubs.co.uk/pubs/

midlothian/albanach

@albanach.edinburgh

AlbanachEdinburgh

The Albanach is the self-proclaimed ‘sophisticated city centre celebration of Scotland’. And it is certainly very popular, no doubt helped by its location on the Royal Mile.

Inside, you won’t be able to miss the Albanach’s wall of over 300 whiskies behind the long central bar, with a dedicated menu to make agonising over which one to try just that little bit easier. And this is a bar that takes whisky very seriously

with its own whisky flights, whereby customers can select three or four malts themed by age or location.

Real ales, including the occasional guest, sit next to a range of draught lagers too. This Edinburgh favourite is the epitome of Scottish hospitality, with an equal emphasis on the food side of things with a large restaurant in the rear, serving Scottish favourites such as locally sourced haggis, cullen skink, fresh battered haddock and steaks.

The Athletic Arms

1-3 Angle Park Terrace

Edinburgh EH11 2JX

Tel: 0131 337 3822

www.athleticarms.com

@TheAthleticArms

@athleticarms

DiggersEdinburgh

The Athletic Arms is a local institution and is better known locally as the Diggers because of its proximity to two Edinburgh cemeteries –gravediggers would quench their thirst here back in the day.

The pub was traditionally known for great ale and still is - it has 22 taps, but as most people now realise, pubs that take pride in their beer also take pride in offering great whisky and the Diggers certainly does that.

The current owner has had the pub since 2010 and has grown its whisky collection to offer 500 whiskies, which are served in the traditional 35ml measure.

The pub dates back to 1897 and retains traditional features including a marble bar top, wooden floors and eight polished tall founts (pronounced ‘fonts’) –one of only a handful of pubs in the Capital who still use them.

The Black Cat

168 Rose Street

Edinburgh EH2 4BA

Tel: 0131 225 3349

www.theblackcatbar.com

blackcatbar

theblackcatbaredinburgh

The Black Cat is the only independent public house on Rose Street and prides itself on providing a relaxed place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a hand-picked selection of Scotland’s finest whiskies.

Owner Chris Miles is a whisky enthusiast with over 180 malts in his collection and counting! He has passed on this enthusiasm and knowledge to his staff who are happy to find you the perfect dram. They stock a

large variety of local beers and cask ales, and have all Scottish beers on draught. A small menu of Scottish fayre is served daily from 11.30am and coffee from 11am.

The venue has live Scottish folk music sessions from 9.30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday and from 4pm Sundays. Don’t miss the pub quiz on Tuesday 8pm.

The Bow Bar

80 West Bow

Victoria Street

Edinburgh EH1 2HH

Tel: 0131 226 7667

www.thebowbar.co.uk

@bow_bar

@the_bow_bar_edinburgh

bowbaredinburgh

Whisky Bars of Scotland

The Bow Bar is a typical traditional pub with a mahogany gantry loaded with more than 400 whiskies. There is always a core of the popular and familiar, but their philosophy is experimental.

Single Casks, various finishes, new releases, requests and recommendations, whims and fancies. As well as the many distillery brands, independent bottlings include Adelphi, Berry Bros, Cadenhead’s, Chieftain’s, Creative Whisky Co, Duncan Taylor and Gordon & MacPhail, James Eadie, Lady of the Glen, Duncan Taylor,

Berry Bros, Hart Bros and of course its own single cask bottlings.

The staff are enthusiastic about the whole subject and are happy to help you select a whisky to suit your palate.

As well as whisky, the pub also offers real ales served from a row of gleaming brass tall founts and a great selection of bottled beers too. Food, however, is limited to lunchtime pies, and its friendly banter means you hardly notice the no music policy.

The Canny Man’s

The Canny Man’s public house was established in 1871 by James Kerr and is a unique familyrun business. The bar and restaurant is now in the hands of the 5th generation of the Kerr family and is widely recognised as an Edinburgh institution.

The main bar gantry holds over 250 different single malt Scotch whiskies alongside international varieties

and blends. All of these are served by 35ml measures in a Glencairn glass with Uisge Sources whisky waters. The restaurant focuses on fresh Scottish produce with a particular emphasis on seafood.

Those visiting The Canny Man’s have no need to rush as they have 12 boutique hotel rooms on site at The Lane Hotel.

The Canon ’ s Gait

The Canons’ Gait sits proudly at the regal end of the Royal Mile known as the Canongate. It is a stylish and traditional bar, which has been sympathetically refurbished.

@canonsgait

As well as a gantry full of malt whisky it also offers six real ale taps with an ever changing selection of craft beer.

The Canon’s Gait is a proper Scottish pub and also offers delicious locally sourced, freshly prepared food. It’s the perfect pitstop for locals and tourists alike.

Try one of the curated flights accompanied with tasting notes or ask the staff to talk you through the regions and help you pick something delicious to suit your palate. Looking forward to welcoming you soon.

The Fiddlers Arms

Sitting at the end of the Grassmarket nestled under Edinburgh Castle, The Fiddlers Arms is a traditional Scottish pub full of character. Principally a sit-down pub where you can spend time watching the world go by and sampling a dram from the vast Whisky collection. Offering a selection of flights based on various flavour profiles, the staff are

more than happy to walk you through the tasting notes. Treat yourself to local real ale while sampling some good old fashioned pub classics using freshly prepared, locally sourced ingredients. Hosting live music at the weekends, ‘The Fiddlers’ guarantees a relaxed atmosphere.

George IV Bar

George IV sits in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and is a traditional Scottish public house packed with character. We are open every day from 12pm – 1am serving a wide and varied selection of drinks including over 100 different whiskies, as well as a huge selection of local ales and perfectly crafted cocktails. We also provide a diverse

menu including classic ‘pub grub’, made with locally sourced ingredients and prepared fresh, with love.

There’s live music every night from 10pm to keep your evening going til the wee hours. Hope to see you soon.

Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar

www.smws.com

@SMWSUK

Access to the spectacular treasure trove of whiskies housed within this elegant Georgian building in Edinburgh’s New Town used to be strictly members only, but today its Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar and ever-popular Dining Room Restaurant are open to all.

Members’ Exclusive Lounges on the top floors

offer breathtaking views over the Firth of Forth and members can also enjoy a special tasting table with SMWS ambassadors and a private snug area.

The bars boast over 200 rare single malts from across Scotland and a range of finest craft beers, artisanal spirits and wines.

The Dining Room Restaurant is on the first floor.

Kay’s Bar

39 Jamaica Street

Edinburgh EH3 6HF

T: 0131 225 1858

www.kaysbar.co.uk

fraserkaysbar

kays.bar.9

Whisky Bars of Scotland

Kay’s Bar is a great wee Victorian bar with an amazing collection of single malt whiskies. It’s located right in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and offers more than 50 whiskies from all over Scotland and Ireland.

It is a well preserved Victorian bar that still boasts some of its original fittings, including some internal signage, whisky barrels, wood panelling, cast iron pillars, and a safe.

Kay’s Bar is pretty small so it can get really packed, hardly surprising when you consider it also offers some great cask ales and the usual popular brands too, as well as traditional Scottish food.

It is a music free bar, but during rugby matches, the TV has pride of place and it is considered one of the best places to watch rugby in Edinburgh.

Mc Gonagall’s Gin & Whisky Emporium

49-50 George IV Bridge

Edinburgh EH1 1EJ

T: 0131 226 2781

www.oldtownpubco.com

McGonagallsEd

@mcgonagallsedinburgh

@mcgonagallsginandwhiskyemporium

Purveyors of fine malts and delicious botanicals. Serving an ever-changing menu of excellent Scottish produce, prepared fresh, every day until 9pm.

Pop in and try one of our carefully crafted cocktails or keep it simple with something from the gantry. Over 120 Whisky’s and 100 Gin’s to choose from - there is

something for everyone. Hosting regular tasting sessions, the staff will happily chat for hours on the flavour profiles over one of the numerous flights. Live music performed most nights and a Badboy quiz every Wednesday.

Well behaved children welcome til 8pm. (Naughty ones fed to the fox)

The Queens Arms

49 Frederick Street

Edinburgh EH2 1EP

0131 225 1045

www.queensarmsedinburgh.com

@QueensArmsEdinb

@queensarmspub

TheQueensArmsEdinburgh

Whisky Bars of Scotland

Lying below the cobbles of Frederick Street, The Queens Arms prides itself on being a pub for locals and visitors to Edinburgh alike.

The Queens Arms is everything a comfortable, quality pub should be, steeped in heritage with a passion for quality.

It serves up home cooked seasonal produce from great Scottish suppliers, a range of handpicked cask ales from Scotland’s top independent brewers, as well as a cracking range of malt whiskies, wines, and cocktails – it has got it all covered.

The Royal Mile Tavern

127 High Street

Edinburgh, EH1 1SG

0131 557 9681

www.theroyalmiletavern.com

www.oldtownpubco.com

@RoyalMileTavern

RoyalMileTavernEdinburgh

Located on the historical Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old town, ‘The Tavern’ is a traditional Scottish pub steeped in history, bursting with charm and character. Open every day from 11am, serving a fresh take on traditional Scottish pub favourites, like haggis, neeps and tatties, fish suppers and even deep-fried Mars bars! All freshly prepared on the premises and generously portioned.

The bar boasts over 100 Whiskies and the staff are eager to chat endlessly about them. Free live music is a major feature and it hosts a range of local talent seven nights a week.

The Tavern is also well known for its for party atmosphere, with locals and tourists alike returning for the welcoming experience.

SCOTCH

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes Street

Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

Tel: 0131 556 2414

www.roccofortehotels.com

The whisky bar at the Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street is aptly called SCOTCHand that’s all that it serves. But what you get is 5 star service and the opportunity to choose from more than 500 malts and blends which is more than enough to keep anyone entertained!

Expert kilted whisky ambassadors will keep the

drams coming and will also fill you in on all you need to know.

If you want to push the boat out there are plenty of exclusive drams to try and some tasty whisky cocktails too.

It’s definitely an experience and worth a visit.

Whiski

119 High Street

Edinburgh EH1 1SG

Tel: 0131 556 3095

www.whiskibar.co.uk

@Whiskibar

whiskibar

whiskibar

The award-winning WHISKI is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s premier whisky bars. The owners and staff have a genuine passion for whisky. As a result the bar boasts some 270 malt whiskies and this total does not include all of its blended whiskies and whisky liqueurs.

The bar has rare, vintage, and cask strengths, and all the major and lesser known brands including many from distilleries no longer in operation. WHISKI specialises in all things Scottish and is a beautiful

traditional bar with an extensive range of Scottish craft beers and cider.

The all-day dining bar and restaurant serves the best of fresh Scottish food using the best local produce.

It is also a live music venue and holds many events at the bar, including whisky tastings and food and whisky events. See its website for more details.

Whisky Bars of Scotland

Whiski Rooms

4-7 N Bank Street

Edinburgh EH1 2LP

Tel: 0131 225 7224

www.whiskirooms.co.uk

@whiskirooms

@whiskirooms

whiskirooms

Award-winning Whiski Rooms (BII whisky bar of the Year 2014) is situated on the Mound and is quite a unique venue.

Not only does it have a bar and all-day dining bistro/restaurant, but it also boasts a specialist whisky shop and tasting rooms.

This is the ideal venue for whisky enthusiasts as the bar operates a ‘try before you buy’ policy

whereby any whisky you try in the bar can then be bought from the adjoining shop.

You can arrange to take part in a dedicated tasting session run by experts, or treat yourself to a great whisky cocktail. It is also an Ardbeg Embassy – the only one in Scotland. But it’s not just whisky this bar excels at; it also offers a wide range of beers, lagers, and premium spirits as well as very tasty fresh Scottish food.

Glasgow & The West

Artisan Restaurant

Artisan in Wishaw has the biggest selection of whiskies in Scotland. Therefore staff expertise is key when it comes to selecting your whisky.

Every employee is a trained Whisky Ambassador, allowing you to make an educated decision when you appraise the jaw-dropping selection of over 3500 bottles of which 2400 different whiskies are

available for customers to purchase by the dram –a treasure trove so inviting it’s lured visitors from all over the world. The cosy bar, which has just been refurbished, is located alongside a restaurant which is also very popular, with the menu revised regularly.

Artisan is more than 10 years old proving that it not only has great whisky but staying power too.

Ben Nevis

Tel:

www.thebennevis.co.uk

thebennevisbar

The Ben Nevis allows you to feel like you’ve scaled a Munro without stepping foot out of Glasgow’s trendy Finnieston district.

Eye-catching design features abound in a venue that’s a hit with everyone from tourists to dog owners, including a fault line running across the floor as a visual representation of the point where

the Lowlands and Highlands meet. Slanted shelves and rocks mounted on the wall add to the unique character, and visitors can enjoy live Celtic music as they choose between almost 300 different whiskies.

The bar tends to be standing room only at weekends but the atmosphere and choice means that it is worth making your way to this bar.

Bon Accord

153 North Street

Glasgow G3 7DA

Tel: 0141 248 4427

www.bonaccordpub.com

@thebonaccord

@bonaccordglasgow

BonAccord

What began as a pub specialising in real ale and pub grub, has been cultivated carefully over the years into a specialist whisky bar.

It has even won UK Whisky Bar of the Year.

The Bon Accord is a haven for real ale enthusiasts and whisky drinkers alike and its steak pie is also renowned.

The bar has more than 500 whiskies on its gantry and

offers a selection of 800 different real ales a year. On the whisky front the pinnacle of its collection is the 70 year old Glenlivet and the 72 year-old Macallan.

It also plays host to a lively whisky society and is involved with the Glasgow Whisky Festival. Check out its live whisky menu at your app store.

The Gate

251 Gallowgate

Glasgow G4 0TP

Tel: 07852 636764

www.thegateglasgow.com

@thebonaccord

@thegateglasgow

thegateglasgow

The Gate is a terrific bar, staffed by people who are not just passionate about service, but they live and breathe all things drinks and that includes whisky.

The bar boasts an eclectic range and the staff are only to happy to recommend something a wee bit out of the ordinary and they also have been known to create some first class cocktails too.

There’s everything to like about this bar - it is cosy, and quirky with plenty of personality. It really is a hidden gem, situated as it is, up a close, in the Gallowgate. It is definitely worth seeking it out. It offers a modern take on a traditional pub.

It doesn’t do food but on occasion you can get a mean toastie.

The Lismore

Glasgow

Tel: 0141 576 0102

@TheLismoreBar

@lismorebar

LismoreBAR

Aprevious winner of the Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year trophy, The Lismore has an excellent range of malts (300-plus and counting), and also does a very reasonable Malt of the Month.

It’s one of the best known pubs in the area and has been sympathetically restored with exposed stone walls and quirky features including stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Highland Clearances.

Urinals in the gents’ loos feature the men who orchestrated the Clearances – with customers encouraged to acknowledge them as they see fit.

The main part of the bar runs almost the length of the building and always has a buzz about it, while the lounge is perfect for a relaxed drink and there is also a suntrap of an outside area.

Top of Byres Road

Glasgow G12 8QX

Tel: 0141 357 6200

www.oran-mor.co.uk

@oranmorglasgow

@oranmorglasgow

oranmorglasgow

The Whisky Bar is one of the west end’s most popular destinations, boasting over 280 malts. You’re always guaranteed a warm Scottish welcome in this cultural meeting place.

If you fancy a bite to eat there is the John Muir Room or why not dine in the beautiful Brasserie. But if you prefer something more informatl there is a

bar menu too. Relax in its informal setting, ideal for breakfast, a bite of lunch or dinner.

Soak up the vibrant evening atmosphere and meet people from all walks of life.

The bar is open daily from 9am, serving alcohol from 11am (Sundays from 12.30pm).

The Piper Whisky Bar

57 Cochrane Street

Glasgow G1 1HL

Tel: 0141 552 1740

www.thepiperbar.com

@ThePiperbar

@the piperwhiskybar

ThePiper PubGlasgow

The Piper Whisky bar is a friendly, traditional style pub in the heart of the city centre, on George Square. It is ideally located for tourists and locals alike. This bar is well known for the great atmosphere and live entertainment.

It won the accolade 2022 Whisky Bar of the Year due to its range of whisky and its appeal to all ages.

It is a Scottish whisky bar with a range of malts from

every Scottish distillery and blends to suit all tastes, as well as an excellent selection of beers, wines, gin and bourbon.

Fabulous food served daily until 9pm, with traditional favourites and Scottish tapas for those who want to try something more unique and cultural.

Check out its notice boards for information on its whisky tastings.

The Pot Still

154 Hope Street

Glasgow G2 2TH

Tel: 0141 333 0980

www.thepotstill.co.uk

@potstillglasgow

@th epotstill

ThePotStillGlasgow

This famous whisky pub is THE place for malt whisky in Glasgow. The iconic bar, which was built in 1835, has more than 750 whiskies on offer as well as cracking cask ales, proper home-made pies and friendly staff who pride themselves on their ability to find every customer their perfect dram – no wonder people come here from all over the world.

The Murphy family – including dad Brian, his son Frank and daughter Geraldine – have owned the bar for nearly a decade and have won many awards

- including the Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year Award and Scottish Field magazine’s Whisky Bar of the Year award in 2016, as well as Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky Scotland Whisky Bar of the Year 2019, and AA Pub of the Year Scotland 2018 and DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year 2020.

They host regular whisky tastings throughout the year and also established the UK’s first Ladies-only Whisky Club.

Highlands & Islands

Ben Nevis Bar

103 High Street

Fort William

Inverness-shire

Tel: 01397 702295

Email: info@bennevisbarfortwilliam.com

www.bennevisbarfortwilliamcom

@benlnevisbarfortwilliam

bennevisbarfortwilliam

The Ben Nevis Bar is ideally located on the main street in the famous Highland town of Fort William.

Built in 1806, the bar was originally the inn for the castle drovers and proudly holds the title of the oldest pub in the town to date.

The Ben Bar and Whisky Bar has an extensive range of whisky from distillers

across Scotland and beyond. And staff are happy to advise.

The restaurant also serves up good hearty Scottish dishes.

And if good weather should prevail you can always enjoy a drink on the deck which offers views over the loch. The bar is also dog friendly.

The Bowmore Hotel

Jamieson Street

Bowmore, Isle of Islay

PA43 7HL

Tel: 01496 810 416

www.bowmorehotel.co.uk

Bowmore-Hotel

The Bowmore Hotel is situated in the island’s ‘capital’, Bowmore, and is close to all the village amenities as well as the world famous Bowmore Distillery.

A family-run venue, it has 11 en-suite bedrooms, some of which were recently updated with bespoke furnishings and luxury wet rooms.

The hotel bar, known locally as Lucci’s, stocks the biggest collection of Islay malt whiskies on the

island while the hotel’s chefs make excellent use of the island’s local produce, including beef, lamb and seafood.

Food is served in the beautifully appointed dining room, while a decking area at the back of the hotel has views over Loch Indaal and barbeques are held on Sundays throughout spring, summer and autumn.

The hotel offers Free Wi-Fi access and is open all year round.

Creag Mhor Lodge

North Ballachulish

PH33 6RY

Inverness-shire

T: 01855 821379

www.creagmhorlodge.com

Creag Mhor Lodge guesthouse offers more than lovely rooms and stunning scenery. It has a well-stocked whisky bar offering an extensive collection of malt whiskies. The selection will rival any whisky bar and covers all of the Scottish whisky regions. The bar stocks old and rare whiskies from distilleries that have closed, these rare whiskies have been matured over several years. The bar specializes in Signatory Vintage whisky from many of the popular distilleries, all of which are cask strength.

The owners strive to stock whisky that is a little special and not readily available. The bar sells their whiskies as 35ml measure which is 40% more volume than most commercial bars.

The Lodge bar is open to residents only and is situated on the main West Highlands tourist route.

You will find a very warm welcome here in its lounge along with a wood burning stove.

Dornoch Castle Hotel

Dornoch

IV25 3SD

Tel: 01862 810 216

www.dornochcastlehotel.com

@dornochcastle

@dornochcastlehotel

DornochCastle

An hour north of Inverness, this converted castle is a spectacular wedding venue and haven for whisky lovers. The hotel whisky bar has over 300 whiskies at any one time and is currently No 1 whisky hotel on WhiskyBase.

The bar is famous for having an incredible collection of whiskies not normally available, and are priced fairly to encourage bottle turnover. The wide range also means there is always something for the novice or seasoned whisky drinker to try. The opening of the private dining & tasting room ‘The Vault’ provides

a stunning backdrop for private whisky tastings or private dining. The hotel and bar is closely linked with Dornoch Distillery owners Simon and Philip Thompson, and as well as having a good stock of bottlings to sell by the measure, the hotel bar sells the distillery gin as well as whisky collaborations with the hotel. The hotel has 22 bedrooms ranging from Standard Doubles to 4 Poster Honeymoon Suites and the on-site restaurant ‘Grant MacNicol at the Castle’ produces high quality dishes using the finest of local Highland produce.

The Dowans Hotel

Aberlour AB39 9LS

Tel: 01340 871488

www.dowanshotel.com

@xxxx TheDowansHotel

Located in the heart of Speyside, there is no better place to base yourself than the Dowans if you are looking for a full whisky immersion.

With 56 distilleries within a 12 mile radius of the hotel, some of the biggest names in the industry are accessible to you.

After a long, exhilarating day of touring the area, why not then join us in The Still for a tailored whisky

tasting using the 700 strong collection? Or if that’s not enough, how about a whisky paired meal allowing our chefs to whisk you away on a tour of Speyside’s culinary larder?

The Dowans: unparalleled service and luxury - have you made your reservation yet?’

Highland R

Fiddler’s Highland Restaurant is a very popular eatery in Drumnadrochit, which is famous for its proximity to Loch Ness.

The restaurant has been owned by the Beach family since 1996 and has garnered a great reputation for superb whisky, food and service.

The family believe in traditional Highland hospitality - and strive to ensure that their customers are given the care and attention they deserve.

Their award winning malt whisky range which numbers more than 600, caters for all drinkers whether new to whisky or with extensive experience and the bar staff are happy to give advice.

Fiddlers Highland Restaurant is the perfect place to drop in while exploring the Great Glen Way, or while attemping to locate Nessie.

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel

Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel

20 Ness Bank

Inverness IV2 4SF

Tel: 01463 223777

www.glenmoristontownhouse.com

@Glenmoriston

@Glenmoriston

Glenmoriston

When it comes to whisky bars, Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel is up there with the best and home to one of Inverness’s largest whisky collections.

Located on the banks of the River Ness, choose from over 260 malts and blends in our signature Whisky and Piano Bar within our 4-star hotel. Take a seat at our oak panelled and leather bar or in our lounge area where you can enjoy live music from our piano player at weekends.

We are constantly adding to our stock and our whisky cabinet houses some stunning drams. If you want to try something a little different, be guided through a selection of rare and unusual malts or try one of our whisky flights that transports you through the regions of Scotland.

We look forward to welcoming you...

The Islay Hotel

The Islay Hotel has just been bought by Ardbeg. Now the plan is to create a world class whisky and hospitality experience only a short distance from the distillery, where Ardbeg has been making its untamed smoky whisky for more than 200 years.

With its traditional whitewashed walls, sea views and renowned bar and restaurant, the hotel is already a destination for whisky lovers.

It is located on Islay’s south coast, just a few miles from Ardbeg’s iconic Distillery, which draws tens of thousands of the whisky’s fans each year. Running

the hotel as a going concern, Ardbeg looks forward to offering outstanding hospitality to Islay residents, tourists and Ardbeg fans, long into the future.

The purchase is the latest in a series of substantial investments Ardbeg has made on the island. The Distillery has recently built a new still house and enhanced its visitor experience. Furthermore, it is currently partnering to build a new community hub in Port Ellen and has made direct contributions to roads and pathways on the island. In July, Ardbeg pledged to donate £1million to Islay causes from the recordbreaking sale of Ardbeg’s oldest ever whisky, the 1975 Cask No. 3.

Lochside Hotel

20 Shore Street

Isle of Islay PA43 7LB

Tel: 01496 810 244

www.lochsidehotel.co.uk

@LochsideHotel

@lochsidehotel

lochsidehotel

The Lochside Hotel, is home to one of the most famous Whisky Bars on Islay, stocking over 400 Malts from Islay distilleries alone! It offers a vast variety of Drams from within Scotland and indeed the world over.

It also has a specially created Whisky Bible which gives an in depth index of all the current malts on offer from the local area, and provides over 25 page worth of guidance and tasting notes to pair with each dram.

The Lochside operates its Whisky Lounge as its main

bar, as well as Duffies, which offers a full range of gins and whiskies but in a more relaxed environment. It also boasts the Lochside restaurant with unparalleled views across Loch Indaal to enjoy and watch the most amazing Islay sunsets.

The hotel has 12 guest bedrooms within the hotel and a further 4 bedrooms in its newly refurbished guest house.

Its fantastic team always has ‘Dram’ guidance and a smile to offer, when it comes to welcoming guests!

Macgochans

Ledaig, Tobermory

Isle of Mull PA75 6NR

Tel: 01688 302 350

www.macgochans-tobermory.co.uk

@Macgochans

Macgochans-Tobermory

Macgochans is situated right on the harbour within Tobermory, following a recent refurbishment, the owners have really focussed on the contrast between the Restaurant and its Whisky Bar.

Whilst the Restaurant has a bright and fresh feel and look, the whisky bar, known as Bar Beag, focusses on more traditional, whilst contemporary feel, and is home to the biggest range of Tobermory and Ledaig

Whisky on the Island, and with the distillery right next door Macgochans is the perfect stop post tour, to try those rare finds!

It also stocks a great range of whiskies from throughout Scotland and further afield! The design concept is very in keeping with dark and moody whiskies, with a nod to the local fishing and diving industries that surround us, showcasing all the local wrecks within the bay and surrounding Mull.

The Malt R

34 Chruch Street

Inverness IV1 1EH

Tel: 01463 221888

www.themaltroom.co.uk

@themaltroom

@themaltroominverness

themaltroom

Apast winner of the Whisky Bar of the Year title at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards in 2021, the Malt Room is a small but beautifully formed bar in the centre of Inverness. In fact it has the distinction of being the first whisky bar to be established in the city.

Not only are staff very well informed but they are happy to chat with you and advise you on the best drams for your palate.

The bar appeals to a cross-section of people from young to old, and everything in between. It also attracts a fair few

tourists because its reputation is growing not just in the city but world wide too. Mainly because its a young, energetic team who are not afraid to push the boundaries when it comes to whisky and as a result its range is both diverse and interesting.

But if whisky is not your passion there is also good craft beer available and other spirits too.

And now the bar boasts a tasting room upstairs which can be used for private events.

Orkney Hotel

40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall KW15 1DN

Tel: 01856 873477

www.orkneyhotel.co.uk

@theornkeyhotel

orkneyhotel

Join a world of whisky, food and hospitality. Offering over 1,000 whiskies including an extensive local selection from Highland Park and Scapa Distilleries, whiskies from around the world including Japan, Taiwan, India, Netherlands, Sweden, France, Australia, and New Zealand, the Orkney Hotel also has selections from lost and closed Scottish distilleries such as Brora, Port Ellen, Convalmore and Glenesk. Try a rare selection in a whisky flight or your favourite individual dram.

Indulge yourself with a five-course whisky tasting dinner. Choose from over 150 gins from throughout Scotland

and the UK or taste an imported offering from the United States, Scandinavia and Germany.

Relax in its child-friendly back bar and enjoy lunch, a bar supper or a freshly brewed coffee. Dating back to 1670, the hotel offers every modern convenience, whilst retaining its original charm. Its 30 elegant en-suite rooms are traditionally decorated and equipped with Freeview TV and WiFi. Ideally situated in the town centre, we are minutes away from the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, Earl’s and Bishop’s Palaces and local shopping.

Port Charlotte Hotel

Port Charlotte

Isle of Islay PA48 7TU

Tel: 01496 850 360

www.portcharlottehotel.co.uk

The-Port-Charlotte-Hotel

The hotel is located in the beautiful conservation village of Port Charlotte and enjoys a beachside setting with stunning views over Loch Indaal.

This award-winning venue has 10 luxury rooms, a bar, restaurant and conservatory. Guests can relax in front of the open fires in its residents’ lounge and bar and enjoy convivial company over a whisky or two.

The bar plays host to nearly 150 Islay malts including rare ones and local ales too. A few years ago it won the accolade Malt Whisky Bar of the Year from The Good Pub Guide while its restaurant has been awarded a Trip Advisor accolade – ‘Certificate of Excellence.’

The Port Charlotte Hotel may be small but it is very definitely welcoming.

Other Areas

rdshiel Hotel

Kilkerran Road

Campbeltown PA28 6JL

Tel: 01586 552133

www.ardshiel.co.uk

@Arshiel

ardshielhotel

ArdshielHotel

Ahotel built nearly 150 years ago for a whisky baron seems a fine choice for whisky connoisseurs, and in the case of The Ardshiel, that’s a very safe assumption to make.

Proprietors Flora Grant and Marion MacKinnon lay on a smorgasbord of Scotch whisky options –including over 500 malts – in their Usquebaugh Bar

and Lounge. Guests also have the option of popping to the nearby Springbank, Glengyle or Glen Scotia distilleries, making the long trip down the Kintyre Peninsula well worth while.

On-site facilities include The Garden Restaurant, which serves Kintyre lamb and locally caught scallops, and the Arran Suite, a function room with a capacity of 65 that frequently hosts whisky events.

Curly Coo Bar

51 Barnton Street

Stirling FK8 1HH

T: 01786 447191

www.curlycoobar.com

@CurlyCooStirling

curlycoobar

Twelve years ago this bar stocked 6 bottles of malt whiskies now it has 300!

T his is an award winning traditional cosy wee bar. with a stove on in the Winter and sometimes in the Summer too!

The Coo has become a destination bar for whisky in

Stirling, a short walk from the City centre.

Don’t like whisky? (Not sure why? Set the bar staff a challenge.They will find you a dram just for you.)

It also stocks a selection of local beers, Scottish gins. ciders and more.

A warm welcome awaits you at Curly Coo Bar

The George Hotel

Argyll

Tel:

www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk

TheGeorgeHotelInveraray

Originally a private house when first constructed in 1770, and later partially converted into two churches, The George Hotel’s rich history is encapsulated in its décor, which features original flagstoned floors plus log and peat fires.

It has been in the Clark family for eight generations and under the families stewardship it has gained a reputation far and wide for great hospitality.

The menu includes an abundance of local produce such as West Highland beef and Loch Fyne salmon

while the drinks menu features real ales, wines, cocktails and more than 120 malt whiskies. The hotel boasts a public and cocktail bar and a fabulous garden area.

The George houses 17 sensitively-restyled bedrooms, each one being totally unique and some have fourposters.

It’s also a dog friendly environment and guests can stay over with their pooches too.

The Inn On Loch Lomond

Inverbeg

Loch Lomond G83 8PD

Tel: 01436 860 678

innonlochlomond.co.uk

@innonlochlomond

@innonlochlomond

innonlochlomond.com

The Inn on Loch Lomond is a stylish, contemporary Inn, offering modern accommodation, a fantastic restaurant and bar with unique furnishings in leather and cow hide and, of course, a cosy roaring fire.

Located at Inverbeg on the banks of Loch Lomond, the hotels Mr C’s Fish & Whisky Bar is a novel concept celebrating two things Scotland is famous

for: fresh fish and fantastic whisky. The bar itself has an organic, rustic feel and provides the perfect perch to enjoy one or two malts and offers a selection of whiskies from the top seven whisky regions.

The weekends bring a variety of local folk music entertainment that provide the perfect atmosphere for a great evening out.

The Keys Bar

87 Market Street

St Andrews KY16 9NX

Tel: 01334 472414

www.keysbar.co.uk

@bar_keys

@thekeysbarfife

thekeysbar

Whether you are paying a visit to St Andrews for a game of golf or simply visiting the sights of this lovely historic town, you would be well advised to make a stop for a dram at The Keys Bar right in the centre of town in Market Street.

Crowned Sunday Mail Pub of the Year in 2014, it is one of the only independent bars operating in the town.

The Keys’ success can be attributed to owner Claire and her team’s personable, hospitable nature; nothing is too much trouble, and a hearty welcome is guaranteed to all who step through the door.

With over 300 malt whiskies available including many rarities, and over 120 gins, The Keys Bar is truly one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

Murrayshall Country Estate

Murrayshall Country Estate

Scone, Perth, PH2 7P

Tel: 01796 474 020

www.murrayshall.co.uk

@Murrayshall

@murrayshallcountryestate

Murrayshall

Murrayshall Country Estate has the perfect whisky bar to while away the hours.

Dram in hand, you can stare out across the Perthshire countryside for miles from their Barossa Bar where they showcase a selection of over 30 malts and blends.

Their resident whisky guru is a dab hand at creating

whisky cocktails and can take you through their selection of the finest whiskies on offer. The hotel also offers one hour whisky tasting experiences, guiding you through their choice of some of the best drams on offer.

Grab a glass and cosy up by the log-burning fire, in one of Perthshire’s best whisky bars.

The Taybridge Bar

The Taybridge Bar is situated in Dundee’s bustling west end and is certainly the hub of the community, in fact it won “Community Pub of the Year” three years in a row as voted for by the local BBN authority.

Inside this old establishment you will find a cheerful welcome in traditional surroundings.

gins, local craft beers , or any other drinks you won’t be disappointed.

Look out for its Malt of the month offers too.

For the sports fans it has both Sky & BT Sports packages showing on four large screen TVs.

taybridgebardundee

Whether you are looking for whiskies (100+ in stock),

THE MACALLAN DOUBLE CASK

Crafted without compromise from American and European oak sherry seasoned casks.

Photography by Steve McCurry