DogTap Ellon is the taproom and visitor centre attached to BrewDog main brewery, the beer brand that grew from a Fraserburgh start-up into one of the best-known craft breweries in the world. Sitting beside the working brewhouse in Ellon, it pours fresh beer metres from where it is made.
Brewery tours walk you through the fermentation halls and canning line before a guided tasting, and the taproom itself serves a rotating line-up alongside food. It is the natural pilgrimage for anyone following Scotland craft beer story.
Location & Getting There
DogTap sits on the Balmacassie industrial estate in Ellon, about 16 miles north of Aberdeen just off the A90. It is a 25 minute drive from the city with parking on site. Stagecoach buses on the Aberdeen to Peterhead corridor stop in Ellon, from where it is a short taxi or walk. If you plan to drink, do not drive.
What to See & Do
Book a brewery tour to see the brewhouse, fermentation tanks and packaging line, finishing with a guided tasting of core and experimental beers. The taproom offers a long list on draught, tasting flights and food, and often showcases limited or barrel-aged releases you will not find elsewhere. Merchandise and takeaway cans are available too.
Who It Suits & Best Time
DogTap suits craft beer enthusiasts, groups and anyone curious about how modern Scottish brewing scaled up. Weekends are busiest and tours can sell out, so book ahead. For a more traditional Speyside-style drink, the region distilleries such as Glen Garioch offer whisky instead; DogTap is firmly about beer.
Practical Tips
- Book brewery tours in advance, especially at weekends
- Arrange a taxi or designated driver if you plan to drink
- On-site parking is available for non-drinkers
- Ask about limited or barrel-aged releases on the day
- Combine with Glen Garioch Distillery for a beer-and-whisky day
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tour the BrewDog brewery in Ellon?
Yes. DogTap Ellon runs guided brewery tours that take you through the brewhouse and packaging line and finish with a tasting. Tours should be booked in advance as they have limited places.
How do I get to DogTap from Aberdeen without a car?
Take a Stagecoach bus on the Aberdeen to Peterhead route to Ellon, then a short taxi to the Balmacassie estate. If you are tasting beer, avoid driving and plan a taxi or designated driver for the return.
