Isle of Harris Distillery: The Social Spirit of the Outer Hebrides
Discover the heart and heritage of the Outer Hebrides through the award-winning spirits and warm hospitality of Isle of Harris Distillery.
Nestled in the heart of Tarbert on the Isle of Harris, the Isle of Harris Distillery is a vibrant hub of craft spirit production and island culture. Renowned for its award-winning Isle of Harris Gin and The Hearach Single Malt Whisky, the distillery offers immersive tours, a welcoming peat-fire hearth, and a shop featuring local products. It champions sustainable island employment and invites visitors to experience the warmth and character of Harris through its spirits and stories.
A brief summary to Isle of Harris Distillery
- Isle of Harris, Tarbert, HS3 3DJ, GB
- +441859502212
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book distillery tours in advance, as they are limited to 12 guests for a personal experience.
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 5pm for full access to tours, tastings, and the distillery shop.
- Enjoy local soups and home baking in the distillery canteen, a cozy spot by the peat fire.
- The Isle of Harris Gin is exclusive to the island, so purchasing it here supports local sustainability.
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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Car
Driving to the Isle of Harris Distillery from Stornoway takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via the A859 and A859/A859 routes, crossing the causeway to Harris. Parking is available on-site with accessible spaces directly in front of the entrance. Note that roads can be narrow and winding; drive cautiously.
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Public Transport
Regular bus services connect Stornoway to Tarbert, the village hosting the distillery, with journey times around 2 to 2.5 hours. Buses run several times daily but check seasonal schedules. From the bus stop, the distillery is a short walk on paved, accessible paths.
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Boat
Visitors arriving by sea can use the Isle of Harris Marina pontoons located in the bay before the distillery. This option suits private boat owners and offers direct access to the distillery vicinity.
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Walking / Cycling
For adventurous visitors, cycling or walking routes from nearby villages to Tarbert are available, though terrain varies from flat to moderately hilly. Suitable for physically fit travelers, with scenic views along the way.
Isle of Harris Distillery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Isle of Harris Distillery
A Beacon of Island Craftsmanship and Community
The Isle of Harris Distillery stands as a symbol of revitalization for the Outer Hebrides, located in the picturesque harbour village of Tarbert. Since opening in 2015, it has grown into a cornerstone of the local economy, employing over 50 people, with 95% of staff drawn from the island community. The distillery’s mission extends beyond production; it fosters sustainable development by ensuring the Isle of Harris Gin is only sold from the island, supporting local jobs and economy.Distinctive Spirits Rooted in Place
The distillery is famed for its maritime-inspired Isle of Harris Gin, crafted from nine botanicals including hand-harvested sugar kelp seaweed, capturing the essence of the surrounding sea. Alongside the gin, the distillery produces The Hearach Single Malt Whisky and its Oloroso cask matured variant, both showcasing the island’s unique character and peat influence. Visitors can sample these spirits firsthand, including the new make spirit, gaining insight into the meticulous distillation and maturation processes.Immersive Tours and Warm Hospitality
Visitors are invited to join intimate tours limited to 12 guests, offering behind-the-scenes access to the copper stills, spirit halls, and private cask warehouses. The tours blend sensory experiences—tasting, smelling botanicals, and hearing island stories—with educational insights into spirit production. A peat fire burns daily in the distillery’s hearth, symbolizing warmth and hospitality, creating a convivial atmosphere where guests can relax and connect.The Social Distillery Experience
Beyond tours, the distillery features a canteen serving hearty local soups, seafood, cheeses, and home baking, fostering a communal space with oak benches and Harris Tweed chairs. The shop offers fresh batches of Isle of Harris Gin, fine wines, spirits, and local crafts. The distillery’s design emphasizes natural light and openness, enhancing the welcoming ambiance and reflecting the rugged beauty of Harris.Accessibility and Connection to the Island
The distillery is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, and service dog welcome, ensuring inclusivity. Located near the new Isle of Harris Marina, it is reachable by boat, car, bike, or on foot, with parking and accessible drop-off points. The distillery embraces its role as a cultural and social hub, regularly sharing updates and stories from the island community.A Lasting Legacy of Island Spirit
The Isle of Harris Distillery is more than a producer of spirits; it is a vibrant expression of island identity, craftsmanship, and community resilience. Its commitment to quality, sustainability, and storytelling invites visitors to experience the Outer Hebrides’ unique spirit—both in a glass and in the heart.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris House
0.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
10.6 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
12.7 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
19.1 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Sound of Harris
24.8 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Visit Outer Hebrides
26.0 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
37.4 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Old Ruins
39.4 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
40.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
51.5 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
historic scotland
51.6 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
51.9 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and historic charm of Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
The Brother's Point
52.4 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Neist Point Lighthouse
52.7 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dun Osdale
54.1 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Loomshed Deli and Coffee Shop
0.1 km
Cozy deli and coffee shop in Tarbert offering fresh local fare, vegan options, and artisan beers on the Isle of Harris.
War Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn castle-like monument in Tarbert honoring Isle of Harris heroes from the World Wars, standing proudly on Main Street as a beacon of remembrance.
Lorna's Larder
0.1 km
Savor fresh seafood and artisanal coffee at Lorna's Larder, a vibrant mobile caterer set in Tarbert’s scenic marina on the Isle of Harris.
A D Munro
0.3 km
A D Munro is Tarbert’s essential supermarket, blending local tradition with a trusted honesty system on the Isle of Harris.
Black Lab gallery
1.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland art and expert framing services at Black Lab Gallery in West Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom
3.5 km
Discover evocative Hebridean photography and homemade delights with stunning views at Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom on the Isle of Harris.
Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)
4.6 km
Explore the haunting ruins of a 20th‑century whaling station on Harris’s wild west coast, where concrete tanks, rusted machinery, and whale bones tell a powerful story of industry and isolation.
Shiant Isles viewpoint
5.3 km
Breathtaking views of the wild Shiant Islands, a volcanic seabird sanctuary off the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides.
Isle Coffee Harris
5.6 km
Discover the best coffee on the Isle of Harris in a cozy, friendly spot with scenic marina views in Tarbert.
Caolas Gallery Harris Hebrides Photos
6.2 km
A wooden yurt gallery on the Isle of Harris showcasing evocative Hebridean landscapes, with tea, cake, and views over the sea.
North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park
8.3 km
Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.
The Cake Shed Luskentyre
8.5 km
A charming bakery near Luskentyre Beach serving fresh, delicious treats in a stunning island setting on the Isle of Harris.
Fir Chlis
8.6 km
Luxury architect-designed beachhouse with panoramic views overlooking Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris.
Luskentyre Harris Tweed Co
8.7 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed handwoven in the remote village of Luskentyre, where tradition and craftsmanship meet rugged island beauty.
Luskentyre Beach
8.7 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Essential places to dine
Harris Hotel
0.2 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Hotel Hebrides
0.3 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
0.3 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Flavour
1.1 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
North Harbour Bistro
6.8 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
7.6 km
A welcoming cultural hub on the Isle of Harris offering hearty local fare, lively ceilidhs, and vibrant community spirit in a scenic coastal setting.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
12.2 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
13.1 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Òran na Mara
15.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Scarista House
16.2 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Lingay House
18.7 km
Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.
Butty Bus
19.5 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
19.5 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Loch Erisort Hotel
23.2 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Uig Sands Restaurant
35.1 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
0.2 km
A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.
Akrams General Store
0.2 km
Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.
John Morrisons Newsagents
0.2 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Tarbert charity shop
0.3 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
Essence of Harris
0.3 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
1.2 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
5.5 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
Harris with Love
6.4 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
David's sausages
6.6 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Luskentyre Beach Hut
8.6 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Woven & Wild
14.0 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Harris Community Shop (An Clachan)
18.9 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
19.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
19.1 km
Discover artisanal mustards crafted with passion and natural ingredients at the iconic Hebridean Mustard hut in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
3.9 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
19.0 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
19.5 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
THE HARBOUR BAR
42.3 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Criterion Bar
42.3 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
42.3 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
42.4 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
42.4 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Artizan
42.5 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Ferry Inn
43.2 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Stein Inn
44.7 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Westford Inn
50.6 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Rip
57.9 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Isles Inn
64.9 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
West Highlands Bar
65.0 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Number 5
5.3 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
11.1 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
64.4 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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