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The Glenturret Distillery: Scotland’s Oldest Working Whisky Heritage

Scotland’s oldest working distillery, blending centuries-old craft with world-class whisky and Michelin-starred dining in scenic Perthshire.

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Nestled in the scenic Perthshire countryside near Crieff, The Glenturret Distillery is Scotland’s oldest working whisky distillery, with origins dating back to 1763. Renowned for its artisanal craftsmanship, it produces refined single malt whiskies using traditional methods, including onsite floor maltings and water sourced from Loch Turret. The distillery also features a Michelin-starred restaurant, a welcoming café, and a richly historic visitor experience steeped in centuries of whisky lore.

A brief summary to The Glenturret Distillery

  • The Glenturret Distillery, The Hosh, Crieff, PH7 4HA, GB
  • +441764656565
  • 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 to fully experience the traditional whisky-making process and enjoy expert-led tastings.
  • Reserve a table at The Lalique restaurant to savor Michelin-starred cuisine paired with Glenturret whiskies.
  • Visit the gift shop for exclusive whisky bottles and Lalique glassware unique to the distillery.
  • Try the café’s renowned coffee and light refreshments for a relaxing break during your visit.
  • Check opening hours as the distillery operates daily from 10am to 6pm, with some seasonal variations.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Perth to The Glenturret Distillery takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via the A822. Parking is available on site free of charge, but availability can be limited during peak times.

  • Bus

    Local bus services from Crieff to the distillery run several times daily, with a journey time of around 15 minutes. Check current timetables as frequency varies seasonally; the stop is a short walk from the distillery entrance.

  • Train and Taxi

    The nearest train station is in Perth, about 25 km away. From there, a taxi ride to the distillery takes approximately 30 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £40 to £50.

  • Walking

    For visitors staying in Crieff, a scenic 40-minute walk along country lanes and footpaths leads to the distillery. The terrain is mostly flat but may be uneven in places, so suitable footwear is recommended.

The Glenturret Distillery location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about The Glenturret Distillery

A Storied Legacy Rooted in Tradition

The Glenturret Distillery, located on the banks of the Turret River near Crieff in Perthshire, boasts a remarkable history stretching back to 1763, making it Scotland’s oldest working distillery. Originally known as Thurot and later Hosh, the distillery was founded by the Murray family of Ochtertyre and has survived centuries of change, including closures during the World Wars and the Great Depression. The distillery’s name was officially adopted in 1875, inspired by the nearby Loch Turret, whose pure waters remain integral to the whisky’s character. Throughout its history, The Glenturret has upheld artisanal values, preserving hand-crafted whisky production methods that distinguish it from larger, industrial operations.

Artisanal Craftsmanship and Production

The distillery’s approach to whisky-making is deeply traditional and hands-on. Barley is malted on-site using floor maltings, a labor-intensive process where the grain is soaked, spread, and manually turned until germination is perfect before kiln drying. This meticulous method contributes to the distinctively subtle and fruity flavor profile of Glenturret’s single malts. Water from Loch Turret, fed by the Grampian mountain range, provides a pristine source that has been used since the early 19th century. Annual production is modest, with around 440,000 litres distilled in small batches, maintaining a focus on quality and heritage.

A Unique Visitor Experience

Visitors to The Glenturret can immerse themselves in the rich history and craft of whisky-making through guided tours led by passionate and knowledgeable staff. The distillery’s compact, stone-built premises cover three acres and are divided into distinct ranges of buildings, preserving their historic charm. The visitor centre includes a gift shop featuring exclusive Lalique glassware and whisky-related gifts, as well as a café serving excellent coffee and light refreshments. Since 2021, The Glenturret has also housed The Lalique restaurant, which earned a Michelin star within seven months and a second star in 2024, making it the first distillery in the world to achieve this culinary distinction.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

In recent years, The Glenturret has embraced sustainability, becoming Butterfly Mark Certified in 2023 to ensure responsible use of natural resources. The distillery balances its deep respect for tradition with forward-looking innovation, including plans to remove peat from production starting in 2025 to reduce environmental impact. Ownership by The Lalique Group and Hansjörg Wyss since 2019 has brought renewed investment and a vision to elevate Glenturret as a premium luxury brand, combining heritage with world-class experiences.

Character and Cultural Significance

The distillery’s character is shaped not only by its historic buildings and production methods but also by its people—dedicated distillers, guides, and staff who embody pride and passion for their craft. The story of Towser, a legendary distillery cat renowned for her mouse-catching prowess, adds a charming local legend commemorated by a bronze statue on site. The Glenturret has attracted literary figures such as Robert Burns and has been celebrated by whisky historians, making it a cultural landmark in Scotland’s whisky landscape.

Whisky Range and Tasting Highlights

Glenturret predominantly produces unpeated single malt whiskies, known for their refined, fruity character and smoothness. Annually, they also produce a limited peated edition, matured for ten years in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, offering a smoky alternative. The distillery’s tasting experiences are highly regarded, with expert-led sessions that introduce visitors to the nuances of their whisky range, including rare and aged expressions. The welcoming atmosphere extends to the café and bar, where visitors can enjoy drams paired with local flavors.

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