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8 Doors Distillery: Scotland’s Most Northerly Mainland Whisky Experience

Discover Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distillery with artisan spirits, stunning sea views, and immersive tours in John O’Groats.

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Located in John O’Groats near Wick, 8 Doors Distillery is Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distillery, opened in 2022. It offers handcrafted single malt Scotch whisky, small batch independent bottlings, and a welcoming whisky lounge with spectacular sea views. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings, cocktails, coffee, and cakes in a modern, inviting setting that celebrates local heritage and craftsmanship.

A brief summary to 8 Doors Distillery

  • 8 Doors Distillery, Wick, John o' Groats, KW1 4YR, GB
  • +441955482000
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • 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 distillery tours in advance, especially from April to October, to secure your spot on popular guided tastings.
  • Enjoy the whisky lounge’s cocktails and coffee with homemade cakes while taking in panoramic sea views.
  • Children are welcome in the lounge area with soft drinks and hot chocolate available, making it family-friendly.
  • Consider purchasing a private cask or filling your own bottle for a personalized whisky souvenir.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Wick Airport takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the A99, with parking available at the distillery. The route is scenic but can be narrow in places, so drive carefully. There is ample parking beside the distillery.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Wick town to John O’Groats with a journey time of about 45 to 60 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency may vary seasonally. The distillery is a short walk from the main bus stop.

  • Walking

    For adventurous travelers staying nearby, a walk from John O’Groats village center to the distillery takes around 15 minutes on paved paths with gentle terrain, suitable for most fitness levels.

8 Doors Distillery location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about 8 Doors Distillery

A Distillery Born from Local Heritage and Vision

Founded in September 2022 by locals Kerry and Derek Campbell, 8 Doors Distillery proudly holds the title of the most northerly whisky distillery on the UK mainland. Its name draws inspiration from the legend of Jan De Groot, the man whose eight-sided house near the shore gave John O’Groats its name. The distillery embodies a passion for whisky craftsmanship and local tradition, producing the first single malt Scotch whisky in the area for over 185 years. While waiting for their single malt to mature, the distillery offers the Seven Sons range—small batch, independent bottlings that hint at what’s to come—and the Five Ways blended liqueur, a distinctive mix of whisky, orange, ginger, honey, and spice.

Immersive Visitor Experience and Tastings

Visitors to 8 Doors Distillery can engage in a variety of experiences including guided tours and tastings. Tours typically run from April to October on selected days and include behind-the-scenes insights into whisky production, visits to the warehouse, and sampling sessions in the tasting room. For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, the whisky lounge offers an inviting space to enjoy drams, whisky flights, cocktails, coffee, and homemade cakes while soaking in panoramic sea views. The lounge welcomes all ages, with soft drinks and hot chocolate available for younger guests.

Architectural and Scenic Appeal

The distillery’s modern building features large windows that frame stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Its location beside the main car park in John O’Groats makes it a prominent landmark with easy access. The design balances contemporary aesthetics with a warm, welcoming ambiance, enhanced by a roaring log burner in the lounge area. This combination makes it a perfect spot for both whisky aficionados and casual visitors.

Local Products and Unique Offerings

Beyond whisky, 8 Doors Distillery offers a well-stocked shop featuring their own whisky releases, including the Seven Sons and Five Ways liqueur, as well as branded merchandise such as clothing and glassware. A unique feature is their private cask ownership program, allowing enthusiasts to purchase full casks or shares, with options for personalized bottling. Visitors can also fill their own bottles from exclusive casks at the distillery, adding a personal touch to their whisky experience.

Community and Accessibility

Open year-round from 10am, the distillery fosters a family-friendly environment and encourages visitors to relax and enjoy the local hospitality. It is located 17 miles from Wick Airport, which offers limited flights, and 127 miles from Inverness Airport, providing broader connections. The distillery’s proximity to the iconic John O’Groats signpost and the main car park makes it accessible for travelers exploring Scotland’s northern coast.

Whisky from the Edge of Scotland

8 Doors Distillery captures the spirit of Scotland’s rugged north with its artisanal approach and breathtaking setting. It offers a distinctive blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination for whisky lovers and travelers seeking authentic Scottish experiences at the edge of the mainland.

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