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Rosebank Distillery: The Rebirth of the King of Lowland Whiskies

Historic Rosebank Distillery in Falkirk blends tradition and modernity to craft Scotland’s revered Lowland single malt whisky.

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Rosebank Distillery, located on Camelon Road in Falkirk, Scotland, is a historic Lowland whisky distillery originally founded in 1840 by James Rankine. Renowned for its triple-distilled, unpeated single malt whisky, Rosebank earned the title 'King of the Lowlands.' After closing in 1993, it was revived by Ian Macleod Distillers, reopening in 2024 with a blend of restored tradition and modern architecture. Visitors can explore its rich heritage and innovative production methods in a striking new facility.

A brief summary to Rosebank Distillery

  • Camelon Rd, Falkirk, FK1 5SQ, GB
  • +441324374100
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Book a guided tour in advance to explore the distillery’s unique triple-distillation process and sample exclusive whiskies.
  • Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience and more personalized attention from staff.
  • Look across the nearby canal to spot the old distillery building, now a Premier Inn hotel, linking past and present.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Forth & Clyde Canal to appreciate the historic transport route integral to Rosebank’s success.
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Getting There

  • Train

    From Glasgow Queen Street or Edinburgh Waverley, take a direct train to Falkirk High station; the journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. From the station, a taxi ride to Rosebank Distillery takes around 10 minutes. Train tickets typically cost £10–£15 one way.

  • Car

    Driving from central Falkirk, Rosebank Distillery is about a 5-minute drive via main roads. Parking is limited near the distillery, so plan to use nearby public parking facilities. No parking fees apply on Camelon Road, but spaces may be limited during peak times.

  • Bus

    Local bus services run regularly between Falkirk town center and Camelon Road area, with journey times around 15 to 20 minutes. Bus fares are approximately £2–£4. Check local timetables as frequency may vary on weekends and holidays.

Rosebank Distillery location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Rosebank Distillery

Origins Rooted in Industrial Falkirk

Rosebank Distillery’s story begins in 1840 when James Rankine, a local wine merchant and tea blender, acquired the maltings of the Camelon Distillery on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal. This strategic location allowed easy transport of goods between Glasgow and Edinburgh, fueling Rosebank’s growth. Within four decades, the distillery was exporting its signature single malt as far as Australia. The distillery’s name reflects the roses that once adorned the canal banks, symbolizing its deep connection to the local landscape.

Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation

Famed for its triple distillation and use of worm tubs for condensation, Rosebank crafted a whisky with a distinctively rich and floral character, setting it apart among Lowland malts. The distillery maintained traditional production methods, including Douglas oak washbacks and a restored boby mill from Port Ellen, which contributed to the unique profile of its spirit. This dedication to heritage earned Rosebank the moniker 'King of the Lowlands,' celebrated for its light, zesty, and grassy notes combined with a heavier spirit character.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its prestige, Rosebank faced difficulties in the 20th century, including ownership changes and market shifts favoring blended whiskies. In 1993, the distillery was mothballed due to the prohibitive cost of upgrading its effluent treatment to meet European standards. The closure marked the end of an era, with the original buildings falling into disrepair. In 2008, the theft of the original copper stills further dimmed hopes for revival.

Rebirth and Modern Renaissance

In 2017, Ian Macleod Distillers acquired Rosebank, embarking on a meticulous restoration blending historic elements with contemporary design. The new distillery, opened in 2024, features black glass architecture reminiscent of old warehouses, integrating reclaimed brickwork and wood beams. The distillation process honors tradition with newly crafted stills modeled on the originals, continuing the triple distillation and worm tub condensation that define Rosebank’s style.

Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance

Today, Rosebank offers immersive tours showcasing its heritage and craft, with tastings ranging from new-make spirit to exclusive aged expressions. The site includes a public right of way, inviting visitors to engage closely with the distillery’s architecture and history. Rosebank’s revival not only restores a treasured whisky brand but also revitalizes Falkirk’s cultural landscape, linking past and present through the art of whisky-making.

Enduring Symbol of Lowland Whisky Excellence

Rosebank stands as a testament to resilience and dedication to quality. Its unpeated, triple-distilled single malt embodies the essence of Lowland whisky—floral, sweet, and bold. As the distillery continues producing new expressions, it honors its legacy while contributing to Scotland’s rich whisky heritage, attracting enthusiasts eager to experience the rebirth of the King of the Lowlands.

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