Stannergill Whisky Distillery

Stannergill Whisky is the latest venture from Martin and Claire Murray, founders of Dunnet Bay Distillers and creators of award-winning Rock Rose Gin and Holy Grass Vodka.

Born of barley, shaped by sea air and rooted in Caithness, Stannergill Distillery is a small, independent, state-of-the-art craft whisky distillery set within historic Castletown Mill.

Originally built around 1818, Castletown Mill is a former grain mill and an important part of Caithness’s industrial heritage. After lying unused for more than 30 years and becoming increasingly derelict, its preservation was championed by King Charles, who expressed a desire to see the mill saved in 2007. The mill has since been sympathetically restored and transformed into a working craft whisky distillery and visitor destination, bringing new life to one of the north coast’s historic landmarks.

Visitors can step inside the restored mill on an immersive Premium Distillery Tour and discover every stage of the whisky-making process, from milling and mashing to fermentation and the distillery’s beautiful copper stills. Guests are welcomed in the Mackenzie Gathering Room with a whisky cocktail before learning more about the restoration of Castletown Mill, Stannergill’s whisky-making process and the stories behind the Saga Series. Each tour finishes with a tasting of three spirits in the Traill Tasting Room overlooking the stills.

Stannergill is producing its own spirit using locally grown barley and pure Highland water, which is now maturing in cask to become Stannergill’s single malt Scotch whisky. In the meantime, visitors can discover the Saga Series, a collection of limited-edition blended Scotch whiskies inspired by the people and stories connected with Castletown Mill.

The wider visitor experience includes the Grain Store Restaurant, Calder Coffee Shop and Distillery Shop, with a large on-site car park, accessible parking and two 50kW EV charging points.

Stannergill Distillery is open year-round. From May until the end of October, the distillery is open seven days a week. From the end of October until the beginning of April, opening is reduced to Thursday–Sunday. Premium Tours run at 11am and 2pm from May until October, with selected dates available during the winter months. Advance booking for tours and dining is highly recommended.