Aberdeen: Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink

Exploring the Aberdeen Gin Distillery Discovery Tour: A Practical Peek

When it comes to experiencing local spirits, a gin distillery tour can be one of the most enjoyable ways to learn about a region’s craft and tasting culture. The Aberdeen: Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink promises just that — an hour of guided exploration into the art of gin-making, right in the heart of Scotland’s north-east city. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions give us a pretty good picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this experience is its combination of informative storytelling and hands-on sampling. You start with a double G&T, which makes for a friendly, inviting atmosphere right from the beginning. Plus, being located in a historic railway arch adds a touch of charm and authenticity. However, since it’s a walking tour in a relatively compact space, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a long, sprawling experience — but that’s part of the appeal if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed pace.

One consideration that might matter to some visitors is the location. Though the distillery is housed in a charming, accessible spot in the city, it’s situated right in a railway arch, which could be a little noisy or busy depending on the time of day. Still, the unique setting really enhances the vibe. This tour suits those who enjoy craft spirits, local history, and tasting experiences — and is especially good for anyone curious about how gin is made or looking to pick up some fun tips for making their own at home.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish gin experience with a focus on local distilling traditions.
• Includes a complimentary double G&T and tastings of at least three Aberdeen Gins.
• Led by the Head Distiller, offering insights into the distillation process and history.
• Accessible location in a historic railway arch within Aberdeen city center.
• Perfect for visitors interested in spirits, local culture, and hands-on tasting.
• Affordable value at $36 per person for a comprehensive, guided experience.

In-Depth Look at the Aberdeen Gin Distillery Tour

The Setting and Atmosphere

First off, the tour’s location is pretty charming. It’s set in a historic railway arch in central Aberdeen, a detail that adds a sense of local character and industrial history to the experience. You enter through Arch #10, which might be easy to miss if you aren’t paying attention, but once inside, the vibe is relaxed and friendly. From reviews, it’s clear that the hosts do a good job creating a welcoming, laid-back environment that feels less like a formal tasting and more like hanging out with friends who happen to be gin experts.

One of the unique aspects is that trains rumble overhead, adding an authentic touch to the experience. It’s not every day you get to sip Scottish gin in a setting with such character — it makes the whole visit memorable beyond just the drinks.

The Tour Itself: What You’ll See and Do

Your journey begins with a double G&T on arrival, with options for different mixers if you prefer. This initial welcome drink sets a convivial tone and helps everyone relax. The tour then moves into the production area, where the distillery’s guides— led by the Head Distiller — take you through the process of making gin. While the distillery is described as having a restricted production area, they do a good job explaining how gin is crafted, with plenty of space for questions and curiosity.

The highlight for many is the opportunity to sample at least three different Aberdeen Gins. The range includes both London Dry and Fruit gins, giving visitors a taste of the local distilling creativity. From reviews, it’s clear the gins are delicious, and the tasting experience is relaxed but informative.

The guide also shares tips on making your own gin at home, which adds a practical element to the adventure. If you’re into DIY cocktails or just curious about botanicals, this part can be quite fun. Plus, you’re introduced to over 100 botanicals that can be used for crafting custom gins — a treasure trove for spirits enthusiasts.

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The Extras: Shopping and Takeaways

The tour concludes with a chance to browse the distillery shop, which stocks a variety of bottles, tasting boxes, and miniature gins. The included goodie bag and a 50ml miniature to take home are thoughtful touches, especially if you’re keen to bring a souvenir or gift for a gin-loving friend.

Price and Value

At $36 per person, the tour offers good value considering the range of experiences packed into an hour — from learning about history and distillation to sampling and shopping. When you factor in the complimentary Wi-Fi and the personalized attention, it’s a solid deal for those wanting an authentic, local taste of Aberdeen’s spirits scene.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy spirits, local craftsmanship, and tasting sessions. If you’re a fan of gin or curious about how it’s made, you’ll find plenty of value here. The tour isn’t overly long, making it suitable for those on a tight schedule or wanting a relaxed, informative activity after sightseeing. It’s less focused on family or children, but the inclusion of non-alcoholic drinks ensures non-drinkers can participate comfortably.

The Good, The Not-So-Good, and The Honest

One of the things we appreciate from reviewers is how positively they speak about the hosts and the atmosphere. For example, one reviewer mentions the “relaxed and friendly atmosphere created by charming hosts,” which suggests this is a personable, engaging experience. Another notes how “lots of gin tasting and loved the various flavors,” indicating the quality and variety of the tastings.

That said, since the distillery is located in a working railway arch, it might be a bit noisy or industrial for some. Also, because the tour is only an hour, those seeking a more immersive or in-depth experience might find it a bit brief. Still, for most, the value for money and the friendly, informative nature of the tour make it worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re interested in local Scottish gin, want to learn about the distillation process, or enjoy sampling craft spirits in a friendly environment, this tour is a strong choice. It’s also well-suited for those looking for a quick but meaningful glimpse into Aberdeen’s spirits scene without committing to a full-day excursion.

However, if you’re after a more extensive tour or a larger group experience, you might want to explore options that extend beyond the hour or include more detailed tastings. For families or children, this tour isn’t specifically designed with kids in mind, but non-drinkers and those of legal drinking age will enjoy the relaxed, educational vibe.

FAQs about the Aberdeen Gin Distillery Discovery Tour

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-alcoholic options like water or soft drinks are available, so non-drinkers can enjoy the experience without any issues.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately one hour long. Be sure to check the specific starting times when booking.

Is the distillery accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the distillery is all on a single level with a dropped curb near the entrance, and there’s a wheelchair-accessible WC.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, children aren’t the primary audience. It’s mainly geared toward adults interested in gin.

What is included in the price?
You get a double G&T upon arrival, samples of Aberdeen Gin (at least three), a goodie bag, a 50ml miniature to take home, and access to the shop.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

The Aberdeen Gin Distillery Discovery Tour offers a friendly, accessible way to understand and taste Scottish gin without a huge time commitment. Its setting in a historic railway arch adds character, and the guided insights from the distiller make it more than just a tasting — it’s a story about local craftsmanship and innovation.

This tour is ideal for spirit lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative activity in the city. With good reviews backing up its quality, it’s a dependable choice for a fun, educational outing that leaves you with a souvenir and some new cocktail ideas.

Whether you’re visiting Aberdeen for a weekend or just passing through, this experience can be a highlight, especially if you appreciate well-crafted, locally distilled gin. Just remember to plan your visit and arrive ready to enjoy a taste of Scotland’s liquid heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: