The Clydeside Distillery, Stirling Travel Guide

The Clydeside Distillery stands proudly on the River Clyde at 100 Stobcross Road, within the historic Pump House built in 1877. This iconic building once powered the hydraulic systems of Queen’s Dock, a bustling hub for Glasgow’s maritime trade. The distillery’s location is deeply symbolic: it was founded by Tim Morrison, whose great-grandfather John Morrison was instrumental in constructing the dock and the Pump House itself. This intertwining of family history and industrial heritage anchors the distillery firmly in Glasgow’s past.

Opened in November 2017 after a £10.5 million refurbishment, The Clydeside Distillery is Glasgow’s first dedicated malt whisky distillery in over 100 years. It marks a renaissance for whisky production in the city, which once hosted around 40 distilleries but had seen them vanish by the 21st century. The distillery’s first casks were filled in December 2017, with whisky maturing in a blend of former sherry casks and new European oak barrels. Although their own single malt won’t be released until it has aged at least three years, the distillery already offers a rich educational experience on whisky-making and Glasgow’s whisky heritage.

The distillery combines the historic charm of the old Pump House with a striking modern glass extension. This juxtaposition reflects Glasgow’s evolution—from its industrial shipbuilding roots to a contemporary cultural hub. Inside, visitors encounter gleaming copper stills and stainless steel equipment, exposed rather than hidden behind traditional wooden facades, creating a cool, industrial atmosphere enhanced by subtle neon lighting. The design pays homage to the city’s shipyards while embracing modern distilling technology.

Visitors can embark on the popular Clydeside Tour, lasting around 90 minutes and priced at approximately £15. The tour offers a detailed journey through the distillery’s history, whisky production processes, and the significance of the River Clyde in Glasgow’s development. It culminates in a generous tasting session featuring a range of whiskies, often paired with chocolates to enhance the flavors. For a more exclusive experience, private tours including premium tastings are available. The distillery also hosts a welcoming café serving light meals and a well-stocked gift shop offering whisky and souvenirs.

The Morrison family’s involvement in whisky spans generations, from blending and bottling to distilling. Tim Morrison, the distillery’s founder, is part of a lineage that includes ownership of renowned distilleries such as Bowmore, Glen Garioch, and Auchentoshan. The family’s historical ties to Glasgow’s whisky trade and dock construction enrich the distillery’s narrative, connecting visitors to a broader Scottish whisky tradition.

Situated beside the striking Riverside Museum and Glasgow’s tall ship Glenlee, The Clydeside Distillery is part of a vibrant riverside cultural quarter. Its scenic waterfront location offers picturesque views of the Clyde and the city skyline, making it a memorable stop for whisky enthusiasts and cultural tourists alike. The distillery’s blend of history, architecture, and sensory experiences creates a unique gateway into Glasgow’s whisky story.