Background

Spirited Soaps: Artisan Whisky and Gin Soaps on Islay

Discover handmade soaps infused with Islay’s whisky, gin, and rum, crafted with natural ingredients and island spirit in Bowmore’s charming gift shop.

4.8

Spirited Soaps is a charming gift shop located at 40 Main St, Bowmore, Isle of Islay, renowned for its handmade soaps crafted using natural ingredients and island spirits like whisky, gin, and rum. Run by Gemma MacLean, these transparent soaps are made by traditional cold process methods, capturing the essence and aroma of Islay’s famous distilleries. The shop offers a unique sensory experience and perfect gifts for lovers of Scottish island culture and spirits.

A brief summary to Spirited Soaps

  • 40 Main St, Isle of Islay, Bowmore, PA43 7JJ, GB
  • +441496810938
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • 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-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience, as weekends can be busier.
  • Try the whisky-infused soaps for a unique souvenir that captures Islay’s famous spirit.
  • Check the shop’s opening hours as they close earlier on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays.
  • Complement your purchase with other natural bath products like lip balms and lotions made on site.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Port Ellen or other Islay towns to Bowmore; travel times range from 20 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Services run several times daily but check schedules for seasonal variations. A single fare costs approximately £3-£5.

  • Car

    Driving to Spirited Soaps in Bowmore takes about 15-25 minutes from Islay’s ferry terminals at Port Ellen or Port Askaig. Limited parking is available near Main Street; be mindful of narrow roads and occasional pedestrian traffic.

  • Walking

    If staying in Bowmore town center, Spirited Soaps is accessible on foot within 5 to 10 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is suitable for most walkers but may be less accessible for wheelchairs due to some uneven pavements.

Spirited Soaps location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Spirited Soaps

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Spirited Soaps

Crafting Island Spirit into Soap

Spirited Soaps is a unique artisan soap maker located in Bowmore, on the Isle of Islay. Founded by applied chemist Ailsa Hayes and now run by Gemma MacLean, the shop specializes in creating transparent soaps using traditional cold process methods. What sets Spirited Soaps apart is the incorporation of local Islay and Jura spirits—whisky, gin, and rum—into their products. These spirits are carefully blended with natural ingredients and essential oils to capture the distinctive character and aroma of the island’s famous distilleries.

A Handmade Experience Rooted in Tradition

Each soap is handcrafted by Gemma, who makes, cuts, and labels every bar by hand in the Bowmore shop. The slow, low-temperature cooking process preserves the delicate qualities of the spirits and ingredients, resulting in gentle, characterful soaps suitable even for sensitive skin. The use of no palm oil and cruelty-free practices underscore the shop’s commitment to natural, ethical production. The transparent soap base not only showcases the craftsmanship but also offers a visually appealing product that reflects the island’s heritage.

Connection to Islay’s Distilling Heritage

Islay is world-famous for its whisky, and Spirited Soaps celebrates this heritage by collaborating with local distilleries to source authentic spirits. This connection gives visitors and locals alike a tangible way to engage with the island’s culture beyond tasting rooms—through everyday self-care products that evoke the essence of Islay. The shop’s location in Bowmore, a key whisky town, further enhances its authenticity and appeal.

A Sensory Gift Shop for Visitors and Locals

Beyond soaps, Spirited Soaps also offers lip balms, lotions, and bath products, all handmade with natural ingredients and infused with the island’s spirit. The shop is a popular destination for visitors seeking unique souvenirs or gifts that embody Islay’s character. Its welcoming atmosphere and the story behind each product create a memorable shopping experience that connects people to the island’s natural and cultural richness.

Meet the Maker and Island Life

Gemma MacLean, the chief soap-maker, is deeply rooted in island life, living on Jura and actively involved in the local community. Her personal passion for the craft and the island’s spirit infuses the business with authenticity. Outside the shop, Gemma enjoys baking, coastal walks, and caring for her dogs, reflecting the relaxed, nature-connected lifestyle that inspires her work.

Supporting Local and Sustainable Craftsmanship

Spirited Soaps exemplifies the growing movement of small, sustainable businesses on Islay that prioritize local sourcing, eco-friendly practices, and artisanal quality. By choosing products from Spirited Soaps, visitors support the island’s economy and help preserve its unique cultural identity. The shop’s commitment to natural ingredients and recyclable packaging also aligns with environmentally conscious values.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Spirited Soaps

Popular Hotels near Spirited Soaps

Select Currency