Inverness makes a fantastic base for discovering Scotland’s drink-loving culture. Its local distilleries, breweries, and stories of myth and legend give each tour a uniquely Scottish character. We especially enjoy how these tours combine tasting with storytelling, making each sip a bit more memorable. The Distillery and Brewery Tour in Inverness stands out for its small-group intimacy and rich explanations, perfect for those eager to learn what goes into crafting whisky and beer right on the spot.
Whether you’re interested in sampling traditional Scottish spirits or exploring the latest craft brews, Inverness offers options that blend education, fun, and local flavor. Below, we’ll walk through two of the best drinking tours, highlighting what makes each special and helping you decide which is right for your trip.
Brief overview of the top Inverness drinking tours
The list below includes two well-rated experiences that combine tastings with stories, local folklore, and a touch of Highland magic. From a detailed, guided Distillery and Brewery Tour that lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes, to a slightly shorter, sensory-focused Uile-bheist Distillery & Brewery Tour that emphasizes Highland whisky revival and Scottish legends. Both tours offer a good value and plenty of chances to sample Scotland’s finest brews and spirits.
1. Distillery and Brewery Tour in Inverness Scotland
At around $48, this distillery and brewery tour offers a well-balanced mix of education, tasting, and storytelling. Your guide takes a small group of no more than 15 people through Uilebheist Brewery & Distillery, where you’ll learn how their whisky and beer are made. The highlights include tasting the New-Make spirit, Colpach whisky, and fresh beer, all while hearing tales of local myths and the history of alcohol production in Inverness.
The tour is praised for its friendly guide and for sharing detailed insights into the craft, making it ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of Scottish drinks. While the tasting part gets mixed reviews—some wish for a bit more variety—the overall experience is appreciated for its intimacy and storytelling. The tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, and the meeting point is conveniently located at the Uilebheist Distillery & Brewery.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for visitors who want a friendly, small-group experience with a focus on learning how whisky and beer are made, complemented by folklore stories. It’s a good value at under $50 and suits those interested in the craft behind the drinks.
2. Inverness: Uile-bheist Distillery & Brewery Tour & Tasting
This tour is slightly shorter, at about 75 minutes, and emphasizes Scotland’s whisky revival along with Scottish legends. It’s the first new distillery in Inverness in over 130 years, making it a significant stop for whisky enthusiasts. The tour includes a sensory experience that explores Highland whisky processes, the myth of Scottish mythical creatures, and innovative sustainable technology used during production. Visitors also get to try five different craft beers, adding variety to the tasting.
Guides like Fraser and Annie score high for their knowledge and ability to weave folklore into their explanations. Visitors rave about how engaging and fun the tour is, with reviewers noting the intertwining of Scottish myths and whisky-making techniques. Although the tour is shorter, it packs a punch with insights into modern Highland distilling and craft brewing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers keen on learning about Highland whisky production and Scottish legends in a compact experience. If you’re interested in innovative, sustainable distilling and tasting multiple craft beers, this tour offers excellent value and memorable stories.
How to Choose Your Inverness Drinking Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and what you hope to get out of the experience. If you want a detailed, longer tour with a focus on both whisky and beer, the Distillery and Brewery Tour in Inverness is a solid pick. For those more intrigued by modern whisky revival, Scottish folklore, and a shorter, more sensory experience, the Uile-bheist Tour could be more your style.
Also, consider your budget and time constraints—both tours are reasonably priced, but the shorter one offers a slightly faster introduction to Highland craft distilling. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak summer months.
Final thoughts
Inverness offers a variety of engaging drinking tours that go beyond just tasting to include stories and local lore. The Distillery and Brewery Tour is great for those who want a comprehensive experience with a personal touch, while the Uile-bheist Tour appeals to visitors interested in Highland whisky’s modern revival and legends. Both options are worth considering if you’re eager to connect with Scotland’s rich drinking culture.
To truly appreciate Inverness’s drink scene, book early and be prepared to enjoy some of the best local spirits and brews in a friendly, story-rich environment. Cheers to your Highland adventure!