If you prefer to sample whisky from the source, you are in for a treat at Orkney’s distilleries.
The Orkney Distillery is just a minute’s walk from Albert Street, Highland Park is less than a five-minute drive, and Scapa is less than 10 minutes away.
Gin and vodka are also distilled on the island at Deerness in Newhall, and craft beer can be found at Orkney Brewery near Stromness.
Note: Check opening times for seasonal closures.
Getting There and Location
Orkneys main distilleries cluster around Kirkwall, so they are easy to fold into a day in the capital. Highland Park and Scapa are close neighbours on the towns southern edge, while the Orkney Distilling gin operation sits by the harbour.
What You Will See
Highland Park, founded in 1798, is one of the oldest Scotch distilleries and still floor-malts some of its barley over aromatic Orkney peat. A short walk away, Scapa produces a softer, unpeated single malt overlooking the wartime anchorage it is named after. For something different, Kirkjuvagr gin captures island botanicals in the town centre.
Who It Suits
Whisky enthusiasts will want to compare the peated Highland Park against the gentler Scapa, ideally on guided tours with a tasting. Gin drinkers and non-whisky travellers are well served by Kirkjuvagr, making the distillery scene surprisingly broad. It all pairs neatly with a day in Kirkwall.
Practical Tips
Book distillery tours ahead in peak season,Have a designated driver or use a tour operator,Highland Park and Scapa are close together,Try Kirkjuvagr gin for a non-whisky option,Buy bottles at source – some are island exclusives
Frequently Asked Questions
Which distilleries can you visit in Orkney?
The best known is Highland Park near Kirkwall, one of Scotlands oldest distilleries, dating from 1798. Its neighbour Scapa makes an unpeated single malt, and Orkney Distilling produces Kirkjuvagr gin in Kirkwall – all offer tours and tastings.
What makes Highland Park whisky distinctive?
Highland Park still malts some of its own barley and dries it over local Orkney peat, which is heathery rather than the medicinal peat of Islay. The result is a balanced, lightly smoky single malt, made at the most northerly Scotch distillery in Scotland.
