Highland Park Whisky Distillery

A Storied Heritage Rooted in Orkney’s Viking Legacy

Highland Park Whisky Distillery stands as a proud emblem of Orkney’s Viking soul and heritage, having been established in 1798. Its origins trace back to an illicit still run by a local minister, which was later replaced by the official distillery founded by a customs officer who recognized the potential of whisky production on the island. This deep connection to Viking culture permeates the distillery’s philosophy and branding, reflecting the rugged, resourceful spirit of Orkney’s inhabitants and the remote northern environment that shapes the whisky’s character.

Crafting Whisky with Traditional Methods and Unique Island Influences

Unlike many modern distilleries, Highland Park retains a traditional malting floor on site, where barley is turned by hand every six hours, preserving an artisanal approach to whisky production. The distinctive smoky-sweet flavor of Highland Park whisky is largely attributed to the use of Orkney’s heathered peat, sourced locally from Hobbister Moor. The peat smoke, combined with the distillery’s short, stubby copper stills and carefully shaped lyne arms, produces an oily, rich spirit that balances heat and smoke uniquely. Visitors witness the entire process from maltings to mash room, still room, and finally the maturation warehouses, where the influence of cask type—Spanish or American oak—on flavor is vividly demonstrated.

Immersive Visitor Experiences and Exclusive Tastings

The distillery offers a range of six guest experiences catering to all levels of whisky enthusiasts, from introductory tours to in-depth tastings of rare, aged, and exclusive expressions. The Welcome Experience includes a short film, a guided walk through production areas, and a tasting of three whiskies, while premium tours such as the Magnus Eunson Tour provide access to the full range, including 40-year-old whiskies and commemorative keepsakes. The visitor centre, recently modernized with sustainability upgrades to reduce environmental impact, provides a welcoming space for exploration and purchase of distillery exclusives.

Setting and Atmosphere in the Heart of Kirkwall

Located on Holm Road in Kirkwall, the distillery’s historic stone and slate buildings evoke a sense of endurance against Orkney’s harsh weather and windswept landscape. The surrounding environment, marked by long days of sunlight and strong winds that limit tree growth, is dominated by heather, which contributes to the whisky’s signature peat smoke. The visitor centre and tasting rooms are beautifully designed to complement the distillery’s heritage, offering a tranquil yet lively atmosphere where guests can savor the complex flavors and aromas of Highland Park’s whiskies.

Commitment to Sustainability and Future-proofing

Highland Park has recently undergone significant modernization efforts aimed at reducing water and energy consumption, supporting a goal to cut overall emissions by 50% by 2030. These upgrades ensure that the distillery can continue its traditional craft while embracing eco-friendly practices. The distillery’s unique location and production methods make it a protected and locally managed site, emphasizing sustainability alongside cultural heritage.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Tours typically last between one and two hours and involve some stair climbing, particularly to the mash room, though most areas are wheelchair accessible. The distillery provides restrooms and a well-stocked shop for purchasing whiskies and souvenirs. While there is no café on site, the nearby town of Kirkwall offers additional amenities. The distillery is open year-round with seasonal variations in tour availability, including a silent season in summer when production pauses for maintenance but tours continue.