Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, Orkney Travel Guide

4.6 (36)

Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.

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Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar

Situated within the historic Orkney Hotel in Kirkwall, the Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar offers an exceptional selection of over 1,000 whiskies and 160 gins, alongside local ales. This traditional yet sympathetically upgraded bar provides a warm, inviting atmosphere where visitors can enjoy expertly crafted drinks and a bar supper menu featuring fresh local produce, all within a 350-year-old building rich in heritage.

A brief summary to Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar

40 Victoria St, Kirkwall, KW15 1DN, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar.

Try a dram from local distilleries Highland Park or Scapa to experience authentic Orcadian whisky.
Visit the child-friendly back bar area for a relaxed atmosphere and bar supper menu featuring fresh local produce.
Ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations to explore rare international whiskies and gins.
Enjoy local draft ales from Orkney Brewery and Swannay Brewery, available on tap or in bottles.

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Getting There

Bus

Take the local bus service from Kirkwall Bus Station to Victoria Street, approximately a 10-15 minute ride. Buses run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£4. Note that services reduce in the evening and on Sundays.
Taxi

A taxi from central Kirkwall to the Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar takes about 5 minutes. Expect fares in the range of £5-£8. Taxis are readily available but may require booking during peak times or late evenings.
Walking

If staying in central Kirkwall, the bar is within a 10-15 minute walk from main hotels and the ferry terminal. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.

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Discover more about Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar

A Storied Setting in Kirkwall's Heart

Nestled in the historic Orkney Hotel on 40 Victoria Street, the Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar occupies a building dating back to 1670. This venerable structure blends traditional charm with modern comforts, creating an inviting ambiance that honors centuries of local hospitality. The bar itself is the last remaining public bar in Kirkwall, thoughtfully refurbished to maintain its authentic character while providing easier access and a comfortable, relaxed environment for all visitors.

An Unrivaled Selection of Spirits

The Royal Cask boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 whiskies and 160 gins, including renowned Scottish single malts from the Highlands, Speyside, and Islay, as well as rare international finds from Japan, Taiwan, India, and Sweden. Local distilleries such as Highland Park and Scapa are well represented, allowing guests to sample true Orcadian drams. Complementing this vast array are local draft ales from Orkney Brewery and Swannay Brewery, available on tap or in bottles depending on availability.

Bar Supper and Local Flavors

Beyond its drinks, the Royal Cask offers a bar supper menu crafted from fresh local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy dishes that showcase native produce, including seafood freshly harvested from Orkney waters and native-bred beef and lamb. The child-friendly back bar area invites guests to relax with coffee or a chat, making the bar a welcoming spot for families as well as spirits enthusiasts.

Atmosphere and Experience

The bar’s atmosphere is a harmonious blend of historic ambiance and contemporary comfort. Its sympathetic upgrade preserves the traditional feel of the 350-year-old building, creating a space that is both cozy and lively. Whether savoring a carefully chosen whisky or sampling a local ale, patrons enjoy a setting that reflects Orkney’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

Location and Surroundings

Located minutes from Kirkwall’s iconic landmarks such as St. Magnus Cathedral and the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, the Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar offers a perfect retreat after exploring the town’s historic sites. Its central position makes it an accessible and attractive destination for visitors seeking authentic Orcadian spirit and cuisine.

Commitment to Quality and Tradition

The Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar prides itself on knowledgeable staff passionate about whisky and gin, enhancing the visitor experience with expert recommendations. The bar’s dedication to showcasing local distilleries and fresh regional produce underscores its role as a cultural ambassador for Orkney’s rich artisanal traditions.