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Speyside Cooperage Shop

Discover the ancient craft of coopering and find unique whisky-themed gifts at Speyside Cooperage Shop in the heart of Scotland’s whisky country.

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Located in Craigellachie, Aberlour, the Speyside Cooperage Shop offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient craft of coopering. The shop features bespoke gifts handcrafted from barrels and staves, reflecting the rich whisky heritage of the Speyside region. Open Monday to Friday, this gift shop is part of the larger Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre, where visitors can also book tours to watch coopers at work shaping and charring oak casks.

A brief summary to Speyside Cooperage Shop

  • Visitor Centre, Dufftown Rd, Aberlour, Craigellachie, AB38 9RS, GB
  • +441340881264
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your cooperage tour in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
  • Visit the gift shop to find unique handcrafted souvenirs made from barrel wood.
  • Allow at least one hour to fully experience the Acorn to Cask exhibition and tour.
  • Use public transport via the no. 36 bus route if you prefer not to drive.
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Speyside Cooperage Shop location weather suitability

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A Living Tradition of Craftsmanship

Nestled in the heart of Scotland's Speyside region, the Speyside Cooperage Shop is part of a working cooperage that has been crafting oak casks since 1947. The cooperage is renowned for producing the finest barrels from American oak sourced from Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee, prized for whisky maturation. Visitors to the shop can explore a range of bespoke gifts made from barrel wood and staves, connecting them tangibly to the centuries-old tradition of coopering that remains vital to Scotland's whisky industry.

Immersive Visitor Experience

The gift shop complements the broader visitor centre experience, which includes the acclaimed "Acorn to Cask" exhibition and guided tours of the cooperage. These tours, running Monday through Friday, offer an immersive journey through the lifecycle of a cask, featuring a 4D cinematic film and a viewing gallery where guests observe skilled coopers shaping, shaving, and charring barrels. Though the coffee shop closed in 2022, the site provides picnic areas and a welcoming atmosphere for whisky enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on Dufftown Road in Craigellachie, Aberlour, the shop is easily accessible by car with ample parking available. It is also served by public transport, including the no. 36 bus route connecting Elgin and Dufftown. The cooperage is equipped with accessible parking, level access, and a dedicated viewing room for those unable to use stairs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.

Unique Gifts and Souvenirs

The shop offers an evolving selection of handcrafted items made from cooperage materials, including barrel staves and wood reclaimed from casks. These gifts provide a distinctive souvenir option that celebrates the craftsmanship and heritage of the region. Prices are reasonable, reflecting the quality and authenticity of the products, making it a favored stop for whisky lovers seeking meaningful memorabilia.

Operating Hours and Booking

The Speyside Cooperage Shop is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with tours running on the hour until mid-afternoon. Booking tours in advance is essential, particularly for the popular guided experiences. Children under eight are not permitted on tours for safety reasons. The visitor centre closes on weekends and for two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period.

Connection to Speyside Whisky Culture

As the only working cooperage in the UK with a visitor centre, the Speyside Cooperage Shop is deeply embedded in the local whisky culture. The barrels crafted here play a crucial role in the maturation of Speyside whiskies, one of Scotland’s most celebrated whisky-producing regions. The shop and visitor centre together offer a rare opportunity to witness and appreciate the craftsmanship behind the whisky industry’s iconic barrels.

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