Oban is a fantastic base for exploring Scotland’s rich brewing scene. With its lively pubs and nearby craft breweries, you can enjoy authentic Scottish beer experiences without fuss. Among the many options, the Fyne Ales Beer Tasting Flight offers a true taste of farm brewing in the stunning Scottish Highlands, while the Innis & Gunn Beer Tasting Experience provides a relaxed self-guided journey through award-winning Scottish beers. We especially love how these tours focus on quality and authenticity, making them perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation of local brews. If you’re curious about what makes Scotland’s brewing scene special, these experiences won’t disappoint.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the best drinking tours in Oban, each with their unique appeal. From guided flights to self-led tastings, these options cater to different tastes and schedules. Check out the details to find your ideal beer adventure.
1. Oban: Fyne Ales Beer Tasting Flight
At number one, the Fyne Ales Beer Tasting Flight stands out as a must-try for anyone visiting the Scottish Highlands. This tour offers a 1-hour tasting experience at Fyne Ales, a well-regarded farm brewery in Argyll. During your visit, you’ll sample 5 different brews from their core range, served in branded glasses on a wooden tasting board.
What makes this experience unique is the opportunity to discover the flavors of a family-run brewery that’s been crafting beer since 2001. The guide or staff will explain the brewing process and share stories about the history of Fyne Ales, adding depth to your tasting. The beers themselves range from malty to hoppy, giving a broad sense of what this local brewery has to offer.
Reviews are generally positive, with visitors appreciating the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn about Scottish craft brewing firsthand. The tasting flight is well-pitched at around an hour, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, informative introduction to Scottish craft beer, this tasting flight combines quality brews with a personal touch. It’s perfect for those wanting a structured, engaging experience and a souvenir glass to take home.
2. Oban: Innis & Gunn Beer Tasting Experience
Coming in at number two, the Innis & Gunn Beer Tasting Experience offers a 1-hour self-guided journey through one of Scotland’s most acclaimed breweries. This tour focuses on three beers, including their flagship The Original, known for its smooth, oaky flavor.
What sets this experience apart is the self-guided format, giving you the freedom to explore Innis & Gunn’s award-winning range at your own pace. You’ll taste three different beers, including Scotland’s No.1 Premium lager, and learn about their aging process and unique brewing techniques. The brewery itself has a modern yet welcoming atmosphere, and the tasting is designed to appeal to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to sample a variety of beers without feeling rushed. The focus on quality and innovation makes this experience stand out in Oban’s brewing scene. Plus, pairing the beers with stories behind their development adds a memorable touch.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy trying different beers with minimal fuss and want some flexibility, this self-guided tour offers a relaxed and informative experience that highlights some of Scotland’s best brews.
How to Choose Your Oban Drinking Tour
Choosing between these two great options depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a guided, structured tasting with a personal touch and a chance to learn about a local farm brewery, the Fyne Ales Beer Tasting Flight is ideal. It’s especially good for visitors who want to sample a range of beers in one sitting and take home a souvenir.
On the other hand, if you like to explore at your own pace and enjoy trying different beers in a modern brewery setting, the Innis & Gunn Beer Tasting Experience suits those who appreciate a self-guided approach and want to learn about innovative brewing techniques.
Both tours are roughly an hour long, making them perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing. Remember to book ahead, especially during peak travel months, to secure your preferred time slot. If your schedule is tight, consider visiting Fyne Ales first and then heading to Innis & Gunn later in the day for a varied beer experience.
Final Thoughts
Oban offers a nice selection of beer-focused experiences that can enrich your visit. For a quick, engaging introduction to Scottish craft brewing, the Fyne Ales Beer Tasting Flight provides a guided, behind-the-scenes look at farm brewing, perfect for beer lovers wanting a personal touch. Meanwhile, the Innis & Gunn Beer Tasting Experience is great for those who prefer exploring independently and sampling award-winning beers at their own pace.
If you’re short on time, choosing one experience that suits your style is ideal — but if you have a full day, consider doing both for the ultimate beer adventure. Remember to book early, especially during busy seasons, and enjoy discovering Scotland’s rich brewing heritage. Cheers to your trip and happy tasting!