Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.

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Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Nestled in Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, Highland Park Whisky Distillery is the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery in the world, crafting unique single malt whiskies since 1798. Renowned for its distinctive smoky-sweet flavor derived from Orkney’s heathered peat, the distillery offers immersive tours showcasing traditional malting floors, peat kilns, copper stills, and maturation warehouses. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of rare and exclusive whiskies in a setting rich with Viking heritage and rugged island atmosphere.

A brief summary to Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Holm Rd, Kirkwall, KW15 1SU, GB
+441856885604
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book tours in advance, especially premium experiences, as group sizes are limited and slots fill quickly.
Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more personal tour experience.
Try to time your visit outside the silent season (late June to mid-August) to see production in full swing.
Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves some stair climbing and walking across uneven surfaces.
Don’t miss the opportunity to smell different cask types in the warehouse to understand their impact on whisky flavor.

Getting There

Bus

Take the local bus service from Kirkwall town centre to Holm Road, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance, especially on weekends. A single fare costs around £3.
Taxi

Taxis from Kirkwall to the distillery take about 10 minutes and cost approximately £10-£15. Taxis are readily available in town, and pre-booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons.
Car

Driving from Kirkwall town centre to Highland Park Distillery takes about 10 minutes. Parking is available on site free of charge. Note that roads can be narrow and weather conditions variable, so drive cautiously.
Walking

For the adventurous, walking from Kirkwall town centre to the distillery is possible in about 45 minutes via paved roads. The route is mostly flat but exposed to weather, so dress accordingly. Not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Highland Park Whisky Distillery location weather suitability

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Discover more about 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.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

8.7 km

A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.

Churchill Barriers

9.0 km

Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.

The Cannon

19.8 km

Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.

John O'Groats Signpost

36.6 km

Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.

Quoygrew settlement

41.2 km

Explore the ancient Quoygrew Settlement on Westray Island, a fascinating glimpse into Orkney's rich history and stunning natural beauty.

Knap of Howar

42.5 km

Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Bucholie Castle

44.0 km

Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.

Above and Beyond Tours

44.7 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.

Mary Ann's Cottage

44.8 km

Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.

Caithness Broch Centre

46.4 km

Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.

Nybster Broch

46.9 km

Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

47.9 km

Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Castlehill Heritage Centre

48.0 km

Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Old Keiss Castle

48.6 km

Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.

Whitegate broch

49.1 km

An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.

Unmissable attractions to see

Scapa Beach

1.2 km

Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

1.4 km

Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.

The Tankerness House

1.5 km

Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.

St Magnus Cathedral

1.5 km

Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.

The Orkney Museum

1.5 km

Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.

Badly Drawn Cat

1.6 km

A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.

Spirit of Orkney

1.8 km

Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.

The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre

1.8 km

Discover Orkney’s hand-crafted spirits and rich heritage at Kirkwall’s vibrant distillery and visitor centre on the historic harbour front.

Orkney Wireless Museum

1.8 km

Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.

Grain Earth House

2.5 km

Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Wideford Hill Scenic View

4.6 km

A quiet Orkney hilltop with sweeping views over Kirkwall, the Bay of Firth, and the surrounding countryside, perfect for panoramic photos and peaceful reflection.

Wideford Hill Cairn

5.0 km

Explore Wideford Hill Cairn, a majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb in Orkney, blending ancient architecture with celestial mysteries and stunning views.

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

6.1 km

Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.

Rennibister Earth House

6.3 km

Discover the Rennibister Earth House, a prehistoric marvel nestled in the Orkney Islands, embodying ancient heritage and natural beauty.

Waulkmill Bay

7.4 km

Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.

A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.

Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.

A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Orkney Club

1.8 km

A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.

Skinandi's Nightclub

52.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.

The Waterfront

58.9 km

Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Highland Park Whisky Distillery

A brief summary to Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Taxi

Car

Walking

Highland Park Whisky Distillery location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Highland Park Whisky Distillery

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Highland Park Whisky Distillery

A Storied Heritage Rooted in Orkney’s Viking Legacy

Crafting Whisky with Traditional Methods and Unique Island Influences

Immersive Visitor Experiences and Exclusive Tastings

Setting and Atmosphere in the Heart of Kirkwall

Commitment to Sustainability and Future-proofing

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

Churchill Barriers

The Cannon

John O'Groats Signpost

Quoygrew settlement

Knap of Howar

Bucholie Castle

Above and Beyond Tours

Mary Ann's Cottage

Caithness Broch Centre

Nybster Broch

Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))

Castlehill Heritage Centre

Old Keiss Castle

Whitegate broch

Unmissable attractions to see

Scapa Beach

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

The Tankerness House

St Magnus Cathedral

The Orkney Museum

Badly Drawn Cat

Spirit of Orkney

The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre

Orkney Wireless Museum

Grain Earth House

Wideford Hill Scenic View

Wideford Hill Cairn

Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café

Rennibister Earth House

Waulkmill Bay

Essential places to dine

Sakura Kitchen

Happy Haddock

The Orkney Hotel

Lucano

Empire Chinese Restaurant

The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms

Trenabies Cafe Bistro

Twenty One

Pomona Cafe

Busters Diner

Bothy Bar

Dil Se Restaurant

Helgi's

The Shore

The Foveran

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Original Orkney Hamper Company

Orkney Tweed

Blue Joe's

Judith Glue

The Longship

Aurora Jewellery

Starlings

Logo Orkney

Kairds

Poundstretcher