Glen Garioch Distillery: Historic Highland Whisky Craftsmanship in Oldmeldrum
Explore Scotland’s historic Glen Garioch Distillery in Oldmeldrum, where centuries-old whisky craftsmanship meets authentic Highland charm.
Nestled in the scenic village of Oldmeldrum near Inverurie, Glen Garioch Distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest whisky producers, crafting award-winning Highland single malts since 1797. Visitors can explore traditional whisky-making methods through immersive tours, tastings, and unique experiences such as bottling their own cask. The distillery’s charming granite buildings and rich heritage offer an authentic glimpse into Scotland’s whisky culture.
A brief summary to Glen Garioch Distillery
- Distillery Rd, Inverurie, Oldmeldrum, AB51 0ES, GB
- +441651873450
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book tours and tasting experiences in advance, especially for specialized options like bottling your own whisky.
- Visit between March and December for full access to tours and the visitor centre; note the distillery closes for maintenance in winter.
- Try the Rare Pair tasting experience to enjoy whisky paired with local cheeses and chutneys for a unique flavor journey.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours for your visit to fully appreciate the tours, tastings, and shop.
- Use public transport from Aberdeen or Inverurie if you want to avoid driving, especially if you plan to sample whisky.
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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Public Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus number 35A or 35 from Aberdeen Bus Station to Oldmeldrum, with a travel time of approximately 50 minutes. The bus stops near Urquhart Road, about a 5-minute walk from the distillery. A day ticket costs around £9.90, or £7.70 if only visiting Glen Garioch. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Train and Taxi
Travel by train to Inverurie station, located about 5 miles from Oldmeldrum. From there, a taxi ride of roughly 15 minutes will bring you to the distillery. Train journeys from Aberdeen take about 30 minutes, with taxi fares typically around £15-£20. This option is suitable for those preferring rail travel with a short road transfer.
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Car
Driving from Aberdeen or Inverurie takes approximately 25-30 minutes via local roads. Parking is available at the distillery. Note that the rural roads can be narrow, and winter weather may affect driving conditions. Electric vehicle charging points are available nearby.
Glen Garioch 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 Glen Garioch Distillery
A Storied Legacy in the Heart of Aberdeenshire
Glen Garioch Distillery, pronounced 'Geery' in the local Doric dialect, stands as one of Scotland’s oldest continuously operating distilleries, established in 1797. Situated in Oldmeldrum, a quaint market town near Inverurie, it draws its name from the fertile Garioch valley, renowned for its barley cultivation. This historic setting has shaped Glen Garioch’s identity as a producer of robust Highland single malt whiskies, celebrated for their maltiness, honeyed sweetness, and creamy texture.Traditional Whisky Crafting and Visitor Experiences
The distillery maintains time-honored methods, including a rare malting floor still in operation, which visitors can witness during guided tours. The Founder's Tour offers an introduction to the distillery’s heritage and whisky-making process, culminating in a dram of their Founder’s Reserve. More immersive options include the Warehouse No.4 tour, where guests sample whisky directly from the cask, and the Rare Pair tasting, pairing whiskies with local cheeses and chutneys. A standout experience is the opportunity to bottle your own whisky from a single cask, creating a personal memento.Architectural Charm and Setting
The distillery’s granite buildings exude historic charm, harmonizing with the surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside. Its location in Oldmeldrum provides a tranquil rural atmosphere, complemented by the nearby barley fields and water sources integral to whisky production. The visitor centre and shop offer a warm welcome with expert staff ready to share insights and assist with purchases of Glen Garioch’s range, including rare and limited editions.Seasonal Operations and Accessibility
Open daily from 10am to 4pm between March and December, Glen Garioch closes during winter months for maintenance, known as the Silent Season. Tours run Monday to Saturday, with advance booking recommended for specialized experiences. The distillery is accessible by car and public transport, with Inverurie train station five miles away and bus services connecting from Aberdeen. Facilities include a visitor centre, shop, and accessible amenities.A Whisky Destination for Enthusiasts and Newcomers
Whether you are a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious visitor, Glen Garioch offers an authentic and educational journey into Scotch whisky production. The knowledgeable guides enliven the history and craftsmanship behind every bottle, making each visit memorable. The distillery’s blend of heritage, scenic setting, and engaging experiences makes it a highlight of Aberdeenshire’s whisky trail.Local Culture and Surrounding Attractions
Oldmeldrum itself is a charming village with traditional Scottish character, providing a peaceful backdrop for your distillery visit. The region’s rich agricultural landscape and nearby attractions complement a day trip or weekend getaway focused on cultural heritage and natural beauty. Glen Garioch’s presence here underscores the deep connection between place, tradition, and the art of whisky-making.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Barra Hill
1.9 km
Explore Barra Hill near Inverurie, an ancient hillfort and historic battlefield offering panoramic views and a deep connection to Scotland’s past.
Balquhain Stone Circle
8.1 km
Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.
Dyce Standing Stones
15.2 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Stone 45
20.3 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Workers' Memorial
20.8 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
The Powis Gates
23.4 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
23.7 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
23.8 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Rosemount Palace
24.1 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Rosemount Market
24.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Gallows Hill
24.3 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Edward VIII Post Box
24.4 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Queen Victoria Statue
24.6 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Marischal College
24.9 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
25.0 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pitmedden Garden & Museum of Farming Life
7.6 km
Discover a vibrant 17th-century Scottish Renaissance walled garden with colorful parterres, historic orchard, and a captivating Museum of Farming Life.
Haddo House
9.3 km
Explore Haddo House, a stunning Georgian Palladian mansion with Victorian interiors, historic gardens, and rich Scottish heritage near Ellon.
East Aquhorthies Stone Circle
10.2 km
Explore one of Scotland’s best-preserved recumbent stone circles with mystical views and ancient heritage near Inverurie.
Fyvie Castle
12.5 km
Explore Fyvie Castle, an 800-year-old Scottish Baronial fortress rich in history, art, legends, and scenic grounds in Aberdeenshire.
Dyce Symbol Stones
13.8 km
Explore the enigmatic Dyce Symbol Stones—ancient Pictish carvings nestled in the ruins of St Fergus's Chapel, revealing Scotland’s early medieval mysteries.
Kirkhill Forest
16.8 km
Explore Kirkhill Forest’s scenic trails, historic Tappie Tower, and vibrant woodlands just minutes from Aberdeen’s city limits.
Dyce Farm - Dining & Carvery
17.2 km
Cozy British pub and carvery near Aberdeen Airport, offering hearty meals, family-friendly amenities, and a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
17.3 km
Explore one of Scotland’s grandest tower houses with secret staircases, vibrant gardens, and scenic woodland trails in Aberdeenshire.
VisitAberdeenshire
18.7 km
Scotland's premier arena hosting world-class events, concerts, and conferences in a sustainable, state-of-the-art venue.
Dunnydeer Castle
19.6 km
Explore Dunnydeer Castle, a historic site in Insch, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Newburgh Seal Beach
20.0 km
Discover Britain’s largest grey seal colony on the golden sands of Newburgh Seal Beach, a serene wildlife haven in Aberdeenshire.
Scotstown Moor
20.2 km
A tranquil heathland and bog reserve near Aberdeen offering rich natural habitats, historic roots, and scenic coastal views.
Persley Walled Garden
20.8 km
A serene Victorian walled garden in Aberdeen offering peaceful walks, vibrant plantings, and a poignant workers' memorial beside the River Don.
Hackley Bay
21.8 km
Discover tranquil coastal beauty and historic charm at Hackley Bay, a serene retreat near Collieston in Aberdeenshire.
Archimedes Screw
21.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Essential places to dine
1236 Cave Bar at Meldrum House
1.6 km
Historic 800-year-old stone bar with award-winning whisky and casual Scottish dining at Meldrum House Country Hotel.
Fennel Restaurant
6.8 km
Modern European dining with fresh local ingredients in a relaxed, stylish setting at Inverurie’s Fennel Restaurant.
Eat On The Green
7.3 km
Experience refined Scottish dining with fresh local ingredients and impeccable service in the heart of Udny Green.
The Montgomerie Restaurant
7.9 km
A tranquil golf club restaurant in Inverurie serving excellent British cuisine with scenic course views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Beekie's Neuk
11.1 km
A beloved Newmachar pub serving hearty homemade Scottish classics in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with generous portions and good value.
The Cock & Bull
17.8 km
A beloved Scottish gastropub in Balmedie offering award-winning food, cozy accommodation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mill Of Mundurno Table Table
20.4 km
Family-friendly pub dining in scenic Aberdeen farmland with hearty British classics and warm hospitality.
Luigi's
20.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
21.1 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
The Garlogie Inn
22.2 km
Discover family-friendly dining at The Garlogie Inn in Westhill, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in a cozy pub setting.
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
22.8 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Chicago Town
23.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
23.1 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
23.1 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Kastille
23.8 km
A vibrant blend of modern dining, lively bar, and nightclub experiences in the heart of Turriff.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Geek Bothy Ltd
13.8 km
Award-winning gift shop celebrating local makers, quirky treasures, and creative community in rural Aberdeenshire.
Quirky Gifts Emporium
15.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and unique gifts in this independent Ellon shop.
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
21.5 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
The Bear Essentials
23.0 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
ShopHub
23.1 km
Everyday essentials at the pulse of Aberdeen Uni campus – ShopHub fuels student life with groceries, snacks, and supplies in Old Aberdeen's historic heart.
Malthurst Retail Ltd
23.1 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Blackwell's Bookshop
23.1 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
23.1 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Àdùké Fashion House
23.7 km
Discover African vibrancy on Aberdeen's George Street: native wears, handmade bags, and cultural fusion fashion for all ages at affordable prices.
The Gift Alley
23.8 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Turriff’s charming Main Street.
Made by Mums with Love
23.8 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
House of Gifts
23.9 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
Country Images
24.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Treehouse
24.0 km
Discover unique gifts, home furnishings, and a cozy café experience in the charming Treehouse of Midmar near Inverurie.
The Owl at Number Two
24.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Craft - off-licence and Bar
8.4 km
A cozy village wine bar and off-licence in Pitmedden offering craft drinks, community spirit, and award-winning hospitality.
Spider's Web
16.6 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
The Distilling House
16.8 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
The Staging Post
20.0 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Mains of Scotstown
20.6 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Black Dog
21.9 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
Murdos Bar
22.5 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Croft & Cairns
22.7 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
St. Machar Bar
23.1 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
Rowan Tree Bar
23.2 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
The Bobbin
23.7 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
The Queen Vic
24.2 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Northern Bar
24.4 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
Masada Bar
24.6 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
24.6 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Venga
24.8 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
24.9 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
Exodus
24.9 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
Babylon
25.1 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
25.1 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
The Tunnels
25.1 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
Number 7 Club
25.1 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
The Underground Klub
25.1 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
CHEERZ
25.2 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
25.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Private Eyes
25.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
25.3 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Market Arms
38.3 km
Experience the warmth and vibrancy of Market Arms in Banff, offering local brews, hearty meals, and a friendly atmosphere for every traveler.
Banff Town & County Club
38.3 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Deveronside Club
38.5 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
