Stirling Distillery: Scotland's Smallest Gin and Whisky Haven
Discover Scotland’s smallest distillery at Stirling, where handcrafted gin and whisky meet rich history and immersive tasting tours.
Nestled at the foot of Stirling Castle, Stirling Distillery is Scotland’s smallest legal distillery, renowned for its handcrafted gins and emerging whisky range. Housed in the historic Old Smiddy building dating back to 1888, it offers immersive guided tours blending Stirling’s rich history with the art of distilling, complete with tasting sessions and cocktail experiences. A family-run gem, it celebrates local botanicals and folklore, making it a must-visit for spirit enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.
A brief summary to Stirling Distillery
- 9 Lower Castlehill, Stirling, FK8 1EN, GB
- +441786596496
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance to secure a spot, especially for popular gin-making classes and tasting sessions.
- Ask for a guided tour with one of the knowledgeable staff to gain deeper insights into Stirling’s history and distilling craft.
- Try the special edition Gin Blue Line, which supports the PTSD999 charity.
- Visit the gift shop to purchase exclusive distillery products and souvenirs.
- Plan your visit between 11am and 5pm for the full experience, noting the distillery is closed on major holidays.
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
Local buses run regularly from Stirling city centre to Lower Castlehill, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Services operate daily, with tickets costing around £2-£4. Bus stops are accessible, but check schedules for frequency.
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Stirling Railway Station from major Scottish cities; journey times vary from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. From the station, it is a 20-minute flat walk to the distillery along paved streets, suitable for wheelchair users.
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Car
Driving to Stirling Distillery is straightforward, with parking options nearby in public car parks. Travel times depend on your starting point, typically 1-2 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Parking fees range from £3-£6 for a few hours.
Stirling 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 Stirling Distillery
A Historic Home for Stirling’s Spirits
Stirling Distillery operates within the Old Smiddy, a building with roots stretching back to 1888 when it served as a church temperance hall. This historic structure now breathes new life as Stirling’s first legal distillery, a family-run venture founded by June and Cameron McCann in 2015. Their vision was to craft spirits that reflect the unique character of the Stirlingshire countryside, using locally foraged botanicals like nettles and fresh basil to create a distinctive, smooth, and spicy gin.From Gin to Whisky: Crafting Local Flavours
Originally focused on gin, the distillery has expanded its repertoire to include a variety of spirits, with plans to distill Stirling’s first whisky starting in 2023. Visitors can sample award-winning products such as the nettle-based classic gin, Red Cap, Green Lady, Tropical Triumph liqueurs, and the potent 55% Battle Strength Gin. The distillery also supports charitable causes through special editions like the Gin Blue Line, which benefits PTSD999.Immersive Tours and Tastings
Daily guided tours offer a rich experience combining Stirling’s dark and dramatic history with the distilling process. Each tour includes a bespoke cocktail welcome, a walk through the building’s transformation, and a comprehensive tasting session featuring multiple gins and liqueurs. Visitors can also participate in gin-making classes, experimenting with botanicals to create their own unique blends. The knowledgeable guides add warmth and personality, enhancing the overall experience.A Celebration of Stirling’s Culture and Folklore
The distillery’s products and experiences pay homage to Stirling’s heritage, weaving local stories and legends into the brand’s identity. This cultural connection enriches every visit, making it not just a tasting session but a journey through the city’s past and present. The onsite gift shop offers all spirits produced on-site, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.Accessibility and Amenities
Stirling Distillery is committed to welcoming all visitors, featuring wheelchair access throughout, accessible toilets, and level access to public areas. The visitor center includes a licensed bar, shop, and public toilet facilities. Free WiFi is available, and the distillery is pet-friendly, making it suitable for a broad audience.Recognition and Visitor Appeal
Since opening in 2019, Stirling Distillery has earned accolades including the 2023 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award and the Tourist Attraction of the Year at the Stirling Business Awards 2025. It holds the top spot on TripAdvisor for Stirling attractions, praised for its quality spirits, engaging tours, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a gin enthusiast, whisky lover, or cultural explorer, Stirling Distillery offers a memorable and authentic Scottish experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Star Pyramid
0.2 km
A striking Victorian pyramid honouring Scottish Presbyterian heritage within an ornamental 19th-century cemetery.
The Statues
0.3 km
Historic statues in Stirling celebrating Scotland’s heroes and cultural legends, set amidst a rich urban heritage landscape.
The Crossed Peels
0.6 km
Historic Stirling pub offering real ales, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Tinkerbells Emporium
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting Tinkerbells Emporium in Stirling, a magical gift shop filled with unique treasures and delightful souvenirs for every traveler.
Rob Roy McGregor Statue
0.7 km
Discover the stirring legacy of Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland’s legendary outlaw and folk hero, immortalized in bronze in the heart of Stirling.
Monterey Jack's Stirling
0.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of American cuisine at Monterey Jack's Stirling, where delicious burgers and creative cocktails await you in a vibrant atmosphere.
Stirling War Memorial
0.7 km
A dignified sandstone obelisk honoring Stirling’s fallen heroes from World War I and beyond, standing as a lasting symbol of sacrifice and remembrance.
City Walls
0.7 km
Discover the historic City Walls Pub in Stirling, where ancient charm meets modern Scottish hospitality, offering local dishes and brews.
Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast
0.8 km
Discover comfort and Scottish hospitality at Castle Walk Bed & Breakfast, a charming retreat in the heart of Stirling with stunning views and easy access to local attractions.
Contempo
0.8 km
Explore Contempo, Stirling's charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs, jewelry, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Scotland.
Tourist Information Point
0.8 km
Explore Stirling like a local with insights and resources from the Tourist Information Point, your guide to unforgettable adventures in Scotland.
Stirling City Heritage Trust
1.0 km
Explore the Stirling City Heritage Trust and uncover the stories of Scotland's past through its dedicated preservation efforts.
St Ninians Well
1.1 km
Discover Stirling’s historic St Ninians Well, a tranquil stone spring steeped in healing lore and centuries of local tradition.
Historic Scotland
1.8 km
Discover the artistry of stone-cutting at Historic Scotland, a captivating experience in Stirling that showcases Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
memorial
2.1 km
A solemn stone memorial honouring Stirling's fallen, set within a verdant park of woodland walks and quiet reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stirling Castle
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic Renaissance fortress with royal history, grand halls, lush gardens, and breathtaking Highland views.
Robert the Bruce Statue
0.1 km
A commanding 19th-century statue of Robert the Bruce at Stirling Castle, symbolizing Scottish independence and royal heritage.
Drummond Pleasure Ground
0.2 km
A serene Victorian garden in Stirling featuring the iconic Star Pyramid, blending faith, history, and landscape beauty.
Grand Battery
0.2 km
Explore the historic Grand Battery at Stirling Castle, a commanding artillery platform built over medieval kitchens, pivotal in Scotland’s 18th-century defenses.
Argyll's Lodging
0.2 km
Explore the finest surviving 17th-century Scottish townhouse, rich with aristocratic history and Renaissance artistry in the heart of Stirling.
The Great Kitchens - Stirling Castle
0.2 km
Step into the bustling medieval heart of Stirling Castle where royal feasts were crafted in the vividly recreated Great Kitchens.
Queen Anne’s garden
0.2 km
A historic and tranquil garden beneath Stirling Castle, where royal heritage meets vibrant blooms and sweeping Scottish vistas.
Old Town Cemetery
0.2 km
Historic Stirling Old Town Cemetery, a serene necropolis rich with centuries of Scottish heritage and evocative monuments.
Mar's Wark
0.3 km
Explore the evocative Renaissance façade of Mar's Wark, a 16th-century aristocratic townhouse ruin near Stirling Castle.
Martyrs' Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Martyrs' Memorial in Stirling, a poignant historical landmark honoring those who sacrificed for their beliefs amidst stunning landscapes.
Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum
0.3 km
Step into the story of Scotland’s famed Highland regiment inside Stirling Castle’s historic King’s Old Building.
Church of the Holy Rude
0.3 km
Discover Stirling’s medieval Church of the Holy Rude, a royal coronation site with stunning Gothic architecture and centuries of Scottish history.
Broad Street Stores
0.3 km
A friendly local convenience store at the heart of Stirling’s historic Broad Street, offering excellent value and essential goods daily.
Cowane's Hospital
0.3 km
Explore Cowane's Hospital, a stunning 17th-century almshouse in Stirling, blending rich history, Scottish Renaissance architecture, and community legacy.
VisitScotland Stirling iCentre (Old Town Jail)
0.4 km
Discover Stirling’s history and culture through the iconic Old Town Jail, once home to the VisitScotland iCentre, your gateway to exploring Scotland’s heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Portcullis
0.2 km
Historic Scottish hotel beside Stirling Castle with authentic pub, hearty food, and genuine Highland hospitality.
Hermanns
0.3 km
Authentic Austrian cuisine meets Scottish tradition in historic Stirling's most charming restaurant.
Green Gates Authentic Indian Restaurant.
0.3 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling.
MacMillans Kitchen
0.3 km
Relax in a cozy bistro surrounded by scenic gardens, savoring fresh, locally sourced dishes and homebaked treats in Stirling’s welcoming garden centre.
Mediterranèa
0.4 km
Stirling’s only tapas and meze restaurant, serving Greek and Spanish flavours in a warm, family-run setting.
Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served in a bright, welcoming Stirling setting with diverse menu options and a relaxed atmosphere.
Mamma Mia Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Stirling at Mamma Mia Restaurant.
Molly Malones
0.5 km
Experience the lively spirit of Ireland in the heart of Stirling at Molly Malones, a vibrant pub blending authentic hospitality with rich cultural charm.
Scholars Restaurant
0.5 km
Classic British dining in the heart of Stirling with welcoming indoor and outdoor settings at the historic Stirling Highland Hotel.
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
0.6 km
Discover Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy: A vibrant gastropub in Stirling offering delicious food, local ales, and live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Italia Nostra Ltd
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Stirling at Italia Nostra Ltd.
Old Town Coffee House
0.6 km
Cozy family-run café in Stirling’s Old Town, serving fresh baked goods, specialty coffee, and hearty British-Polish fare in a welcoming setting.
Cold Beer Company
0.6 km
A lively Stirling pub with hearty classics, craft beers, sports screens, and a sunny beer garden in a historic former post office.
Ranas Tandoori Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a casual, friendly setting in the heart of Stirling.
Windchimes Ltd
0.6 km
Cozy and inviting dining in Stirling’s historic center, featuring fresh local flavors and beloved homemade desserts.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Palace Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the charming Palace Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
Courtyard Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and exclusive souvenirs in the charming Courtyard Gift Shop nestled within historic Stirling Castle.
F&F Clothing
0.4 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for the whole family, conveniently located inside Tesco Stirling Superstore with extended hours and quality guarantees.
Cancer Research UK
0.6 km
Treasure hunt for a cause—quality secondhand finds funding cancer research in Stirling's heart.
Europa Music
0.6 km
Stirling's independent vinyl and CD sanctuary for collectors and music enthusiasts.
Abbey Antiques Ltd.
0.6 km
Carefully curated antiques and fine art hidden on historic Friars Street in Stirling.
House of Henderson
0.6 km
Discover bespoke Scottish Highlandwear crafted with tradition and care at Stirling’s House of Henderson, kiltmakers since 1923.
Calluna ethical living
0.7 km
Discover Stirling’s charming hub for sustainable gifts, ethical homewares, and beautiful plants at Calluna Ethical Living.
Made In Stirling
0.7 km
Discover Stirling’s vibrant creative heart with unique handmade art, crafts, and workshops at Made in Stirling’s flagship store.
Bluebell's Childrenswear
0.7 km
Discover stylish, quality children's clothing and gifts in Stirling’s charming Bluebell's Childrenswear boutique.
A'ila Home
0.7 km
Discover Stirling’s unique homewares treasure trove offering quirky, quality décor and gifts that add personality to every room.
Nickel & Dime
0.7 km
Discover Stirling’s eclectic emporium offering unique gifts, practical household goods, and charming finds at Nickel & Dime.
The Fragrance Shop
0.8 km
Discover your signature scent at Stirling’s premier independent fragrance retailer with expert advice and an extensive brand selection.
Trend
0.8 km
Discover Trend in Stirling, a unique clothing shop offering the latest fashion styles and timeless pieces for every occasion.
The Celebrations Card & Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt cards at The Celebrations Card & Gift Shop in Stirling, your perfect stop for special occasions.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Settle Inn
0.2 km
Historic Stirling pub with cozy charm, lively folk music, and a welcoming atmosphere for ale lovers and locals alike.
Cross Keys
0.3 km
A cozy historic pub and inn in Stirling offering hearty local fare, guest beers, and comfortable rooms with scenic views.
Curly Coo Bar
0.5 km
Discover Stirling’s cozy whisky sanctuary with over 130 malt whiskies, warm hospitality, and a quirky yet traditional atmosphere.
Lawsons
0.6 km
Discover Lawsons, Stirling’s cozy gin lounge with over 95 gins, craft cocktails, and warm Scottish hospitality in a lively, welcoming setting.
BrewDog Stirling
0.6 km
A lively craft beer bar and restaurant in Stirling offering 15 taps, classic bar food, and a vibrant atmosphere near the castle and station.
meraki
0.6 km
A vibrant and quirky cocktail bar in Stirling city centre, known for expertly crafted classics and innovative creations in a relaxed, friendly setting.
King Cons
0.7 km
Experience Stirling’s vibrant nightlife at King Cons, a lively bar offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city centre.
Port Customs Bar
0.9 km
A classic Stirling pub offering well-kept beers, fine whiskies, and a friendly, inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Vinney’s Bar
1.1 km
A friendly, budget-friendly bar in Raploch, Stirling, known for its welcoming vibe and lively local nights.
The William Wallace
2.1 km
A cosy, affordable Scottish pub near the Wallace Monument, offering hearty food, fresh beer, and a warm, friendly atmosphere in Stirling's Causewayhead.
The Borestone Bar
2.6 km
A friendly and affordable Stirling pub with a spacious lounge, welcoming locals, and a lively atmosphere near Bannockburn Road.
Anchor Bar
2.8 km
A friendly and affordable community pub in Stirling with pool, darts, live sports, and a spacious function room for vibrant local gatherings.
Westerton Arms
3.5 km
A cherished Bridge of Allan pub and restaurant blending hearty Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bawbee
3.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Bridge of Allan, known for lively atmosphere, live music, generous portions, and expertly crafted drinks.
1314 Inn
3.7 km
A friendly Stirling pub offering hearty Scottish fare, generous portions, and a warm community atmosphere at great value.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
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
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
