Discover the Spirit of Orkney at The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
Experience the rich heritage and unique flavors of Orkney's finest spirits at The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre in Kirkwall.
Nestled in the heart of Kirkwall, The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre offers a delightful journey into the world of Scottish spirits. From guided tours to tasting sessions, indulge in the rich heritage and flavors of Orkney's finest whiskies and gins. This charming distillery is an essential stop for any visitor looking to experience the local culture.
A brief summary to The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
- Ayre Rd, Kirkwall, KW15 1QX, GB
- +441856875338
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your distillery tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Take your time in the gift shop; there are many unique local products to discover.
- Try their signature gin and whisky during the tasting session for a true taste of Orkney.
- Check their website for special events or seasonal tastings that might be happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney. The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre is located on Ayre Road (KW15 1QX). From the town center, take the A961 towards the north. After approximately 1 mile, turn left onto Ayre Road. The distillery will be on your left. There is parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transport, take a bus to Kirkwall. Several local bus services run to Kirkwall from various parts of Orkney. Once you arrive at the Kirkwall bus station, which is centrally located, you can either walk (approximately 15 minutes) or take a local taxi to The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre. Walking directions: Exit the bus station and head east on the A961. After about 0.7 miles, turn left onto Ayre Road, and the distillery will be on your left.
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Taxi
If you prefer a quicker option, you can always take a taxi from anywhere in Kirkwall directly to The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre. The journey is short, typically taking around 5 minutes, and should cost approximately £5-£10 depending on the starting location.
Discover more about The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
10.5 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
10.8 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
19.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
38.4 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Knap of Howar
40.7 km
Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
42.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
45.8 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
46.0 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
46.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
48.1 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
48.6 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))
49.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
49.4 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
50.3 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
50.8 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
Orkney Wireless Museum
0.1 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
Spirit of Orkney
0.2 km
Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.
Badly Drawn Cat
0.2 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
The Orkney Museum
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
The Tankerness House
0.3 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
St Magnus Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
0.4 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
Grain Earth House
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
1.8 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Scapa Beach
2.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Wideford Hill Scenic View
3.7 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
4.0 km
Explore Wideford Hill Cairn, a majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb in Orkney, blending ancient architecture with celestial mysteries and stunning views.
Rennibister Earth House
5.3 km
Discover the Rennibister Earth House, a prehistoric marvel nestled in the Orkney Islands, embodying ancient heritage and natural beauty.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
7.1 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Waulkmill Bay
8.1 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.
Essential places to dine
Busters Diner
0.1 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Bothy Bar
0.1 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Helgi's
0.1 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Dil Se Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Twenty One
0.2 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Shore
0.2 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
0.2 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Pomona Cafe
0.2 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
0.3 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
0.4 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Lucano
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
0.5 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Happy Haddock
0.5 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Sakura Kitchen
0.9 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
The Foveran
4.2 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orkney Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Poundstretcher
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
Anchor Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
The Orcadian Bookshop
0.2 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Kairds
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Starlings
0.2 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
0.2 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Aurora Jewellery
0.2 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
The Longship
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Judith Glue
0.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
Blue Joe's
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Orkney Tweed
0.4 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
0.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
0.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Heksmoar
10.3 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oot The Back
0.0 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
0.1 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
The Neuk
0.1 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Auld Motor Hoose
0.1 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Highland Park Bar
0.1 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
Skippers
0.2 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
0.2 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
0.5 km
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.
The West End Guest House
0.7 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
The Taversoe
16.7 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
17.7 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The Belsair
34.4 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
41.7 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
46.1 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
50.8 km
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
0.1 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
54.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
60.6 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
