8 Doors Distillery
The UK Mainland’s Most Northerly Whisky Distillery
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8 Doors Distillery

Whisky With a Royal Connection

Experience the warmth of Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distillery at 8 Doors Distillery in John O’Groats. Inspired by the area’s rich heritage and dramatic coastal scenery, the 8 Doors team are creating exceptional single malt Scotch whisky with passion and precision. Guests can enjoy guided tours, discover the stories and myths of John O’Groats, and savour unique drams in a welcoming tasting room. A visit to 8 Doors Distillery offers a true taste of Highland spirit and hospitality during your stay in Caithness.

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A Brief Overview...

There is a history of whisky distilling dating back to the 19th century, with the previous legal distillery closing in 1838. There was a long break before 8 Doors Distillery opened in 2022. Overlooking the iconic John O’Groats signpost and the tides of the Pentland Firth, the distillery is named after an infamous tale about Jan de Groot, who in the 15th century operated the ferry service between Caithness and John O’Groats. He had seven sons and to avoid family conflict and power struggles between them, built an eight-sided house with eight doors!

In August 2023, 8 Doors Distillery welcomed HRH King Charles III to officially open the distillery. He also filled a cask in the warehouse which is now well on its way to maturing!

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8 Doors Distillery’s Tours & Tasting Experiences

Discover Whisky at The Edge of Scotland

The distillery offers three guided experiences between April and September, so you can pick one that suits your interest and time.

The Wee Taster Whisky Experience is a 30-minute experience, ideal for newcomers. In the tasting room you can sample two Seven Sons whiskies and the Five Ways liqueur, while learning some basic whisky tasting notes.

The Tales & Tipples Experience is amore relaxed 45-minute session combining the stories of local legends and distillery history with your choice of cocktail, hot drink, or whisky-samples.

Or go behind the scenes for a 60-minute tour that takes you through the full production process: mashing, fermentation, distillation, plus a peek into the warehouse where the casks mature.Your tasting includes the New Make Spirit, two Seven Sons whiskies and the Five Ways liqueur.

Shop and Whisky Lounge

Take Home a Taste of The North

Browse the 8 Doors boutique shop stocked with the Seven Sons range and Five Ways liqueur. You can even hand-fill your own bottle as a special souvenir of your trip to the north of Scotland. The shop also offers a good collection of glassware, gift sets, clothing and even preserves flavoured with the 8 Doors products. With large windows framing views over the sea, a warm fire in winter, and relaxed seating, the shop and whisky lounge makes a great place to linger, whether you’re saving time for a tour or just enjoying the atmosphere at John O’Groats.

Getting to 8 Doors Distillery

The Distillery at The End of The Road

8 Doors Distillery is less than 30minutes’ drive from Mackays Hotel, heading north along the A99. Once in John O’Groats, you’ll find 8 Doors just beside the main car park on the way toward the famous signpost. Look for the large grey building with big windows facing the sea!

Whilst you’re in John O’Groats, check out the famous signpost, John O’Groats Brewery, the collection of shops and the coastal path which have amazing views out over the Pentland Firth towards Orkney!

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