Just outside the small town of Aberfeldy in central Perthshire, this polished and accessible distillery mixes old-world atmosphere with sharp presentation. Built in 1898 by John Dewar & Sons, it is the only distillery ever constructed by the Dewar family and remains the source of Aberfeldy single malt, a rich and honeyed whisky that forms the backbone of the Dewar’s blend.

Guided tours cover the full whisky-making process, from the old malt barn to the stillhouse and cask warehouse. There is also a modern visitor centre and exhibition, which tells the story of the Dewars’ rise from rural beginnings to global success using film, archive displays and interactive features.

After the tour, visitors can sample a range of whiskies in the lounge-style bar. Flights include aged single malts from Aberfeldy and sister distilleries like Craigellachie and Aultmore. The shop stocks the full range of Dewar’s blends and Aberfeldy malts, along with distillery exclusives such as hand-filled bottles and engraved editions. A small café serves Perthshire produce, cakes and coffee.

Experiences range from short tastings to in-depth blending masterclasses and rare dram flights. Designated drivers can request takeaway samples. Advance booking is essential as tour times are limited and often sell out.

Open year-round, Dewar’s Aberfeldy offers one of the most complete whisky visitor experiences in the region. It is a key stop for anyone exploring Highland Perthshire or tracing the story of one of Scotland’s most successful whisky names.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy offers a range of experiences, from short tastings to in-depth tours and blending workshops. All visits start at the visitor centre, where you’ll check in and explore a modern museum-style exhibition that charts the Dewar family story and the rise of their global whisky brand.

The Aberfeldy Distillery Tour is the most popular option. It includes a guided walk through the working distillery, from mash tun to stillhouse, as well as a visit to the traditional dunnage warehouse. The tour ends in the lounge with a tasting of two whiskies — usually one Aberfeldy single malt and one Dewar’s blend. A cask tasting from the warehouse can be added for an extra fee.

For something more hands-on, the Whisky Blending Experience lets you experiment with single malts and grain whisky to create your own blended Scotch, which you’ll bottle and take home. There’s also a Whisky Explorer tasting for those keen to sample rare or aged expressions, and a Drams of Your Dreams session featuring limited releases.

Short on time? Book the 30-minute Tasting and Stories option, which includes access to the heritage exhibition and a guided tasting of two drams in the lounge.

All experiences must be booked in advance. Most are suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Drivers are given takeaway samples to enjoy later.

The distillery sits on the eastern edge of Aberfeldy in rural Perthshire, about 75 minutes by car from Edinburgh or Glasgow. It is well signposted off the A827 and has free on-site parking, including spaces for Blue Badge holders.

From the centre of Aberfeldy, it’s an easy 15-minute walk. Follow Dunkeld Street east, then take the footpath over the burn to reach the entrance.

There is no train station in town. The closest is Pitlochry, around 14 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi or hop on the #23 Stagecoach bus to Aberfeldy. Ask the driver to stop at the distillery entrance.

In summer, the Ring of Breadalbane Explorer bus runs a scenic hop-on hop-off loop through Highland Perthshire, with a stop at the distillery.

If you’re travelling from further afield without a car, several small-group tour companies based in Edinburgh include Dewar’s Aberfeldy on whisky day trips.

After your tour or tasting, head to the distillery’s relaxed café for coffee, light lunches and home baking. The menu makes good use of local Perthshire produce — think soups, sandwiches, cheese scones and seasonal cakes. There’s indoor seating beside the whisky lounge, and a small outdoor area in warmer months.

The café is open to all, not just tour guests, and also serves teas, soft drinks and local beer. Whisky cocktails are available from the adjoining bar.

Next door, the shop is well stocked with Dewar’s blends and the full Aberfeldy single malt range, including age statements and gift sets. Look out for distillery exclusives such as hand-fill casks, bottle engraving, and limited editions not available elsewhere.

Staff are happy to help with tasting notes or advice. If you’re driving, bottles can be shipped within the UK, and takeaway dram kits are available for many expressions.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy is well placed for exploring central Highland Perthshire, with walking trails, castles and lochs all within easy reach.

The Birks of Aberfeldy, a woodland gorge walk made famous by Robert Burns, starts on the edge of town. A circular trail climbs through native trees past a series of waterfalls, with views over the valley from the top. It takes around 1 to 1.5 hours and is especially beautiful in autumn.

Just west of town is Castle Menzies, a 16th-century tower house once home to Clan Menzies. Open seasonally, it offers a glimpse into Jacobite-era life with creaky staircases, grand halls and historical displays. Combine it with a visit to nearby Cluny House Gardens, a quiet woodland garden known for red squirrels and Himalayan plants.

Back in town, Aberfeldy Watermill is a converted oatmeal mill housing a bookshop, art gallery and café. It’s a favourite with locals and great for a quiet coffee or a browse between activities.

For families or outdoor enthusiasts, Highland Safaris is just a short drive away in Dull. They offer Land Rover safaris into the hills, gold panning for kids, and a red deer encounter. There’s also a café and shop on site.

A little further afield, Loch Tay, Kenmore, and the Scottish Crannog Centre offer lochside walks, heritage exhibits and views across the water. Pitlochry and its theatre, dam, and nearby distilleries make for a solid half-day trip from Aberfeldy.