City of Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School
Discover Aberdeen’s first distillery in nearly 80 years, crafting small-batch Scottish gins with immersive tours, tastings, and a hands-on Gin School.
Nestled within a historic railway arch in Aberdeen, the City of Aberdeen Distillery revives the city's lost gin-making heritage with small-batch, handcrafted Scottish gins. Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences including guided tours, gin tastings, and a unique Gin School where you craft your own bottle. The distillery combines rich local history, expert craftsmanship, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all gin enthusiasts.
A brief summary to City of Aberdeen Distillery
- Arch 10 Palmerston Rd, Aberdeen, AB11 5RE, GB
- +441224589645
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-6:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour or Gin School experience in advance as sessions can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Arrive early to enjoy the welcoming double gin and tonic and explore the botanical garden before your tour.
- Consider the Gin School experience if you want a memorable hands-on activity and a personalized bottle to take home.
- If you’re the designated driver, non-alcoholic refreshments are available throughout your visit.
- Check opening hours carefully; the distillery is closed Mondays and Tuesdays and operates mainly midday to early evening.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Aberdeen bus routes 11 or 12 from the city center to Palmerston Road; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the distillery.
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Taxi
A taxi from Aberdeen city center to the distillery takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can be booked via phone or app.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in central Aberdeen, walking to the distillery is feasible within 20-30 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
City of Aberdeen Distillery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City of Aberdeen Distillery
Reviving Aberdeen's Distilling Heritage
The City of Aberdeen Distillery stands as a beacon of revival for Aberdeen’s nearly 80-year hiatus from commercial distilling. Founded by two friends passionate about gin and local tradition, this distillery breathes new life into the city’s historic spirit-making culture. Located in a charming historic railway arch on Palmerston Road, it is the first distillery in Aberdeen for decades, crafting small-batch gins that celebrate Scottish botanicals and local flavors.Immersive Gin Experiences
Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences designed to educate and delight. The Discovery Tour offers a guided walk through the distillery, complete with a welcome double gin and tonic, insights into Aberdeen’s distilling past, and a tasting of the distillery’s signature gins. For those seeking a deeper dive, the Gin Tasting Masterclass explores the nuances of botanicals and gin styles, training the palate through tutored tastings.Create Your Own Gin at the Gin School
A highlight is the Gin School Experience, a hands-on workshop where guests select from over 100 botanicals to craft a personalized gin recipe. Guided by the head distiller, participants distil their creation using a copper alembic mini-still, then bottle, label, and name their unique 70cl gin to take home. This three-hour session combines education, creativity, and fun, culminating in a celebration with cocktails and continued tastings.Atmosphere and Setting
The distillery’s setting under the railway arches adds an industrial charm, blending historic architecture with a modern, welcoming vibe. The space includes a botanical garden showcasing the ingredients used in gin production, enhancing the sensory experience. The friendly hosts, Alan and Dan, are known for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling, making every visit memorable.Local Craftsmanship and Products
The distillery produces a range of limited-edition demi-johns featuring traditional and fruit-based gins, often using locally sourced ingredients. These small-batch creations, including popular varieties like Fresh Gin and Scottish Bramble Gin, are available exclusively on-site. The shop also offers gifts and miniatures, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The City of Aberdeen Distillery is wheelchair accessible with level access, accessible toilets, and parking nearby. Open Wednesday through Sunday from midday to early evening, it requires advance booking for tours and experiences. Visitors can enjoy complimentary soft drinks, a gift shop, and knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions and share the distilling craft.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
