8 doors distillery logo

8 Doors Distillery

Region
  • Wick, United Kingdom
Awards
  • Awarded at the 2023 Scottish Whisky Awards​​, Recognized for excellence in creating a welcoming visitor experience in John O’Groats​​.
Website
  • http://www.8doorsdistillery.com/
Phone Number
  • +441955482000
Address
  • 8 Doors Distillery, John o’ Groats, Wick KW1 4YR, United Kingdom

8 doors distillery

History of 8 Doors Distillery


The 8 Doors Distillery holds the distinction of being the most northerly mainland whisky distillery in all of Scotland. Founded in September 2022, this micro-distillery didn’t appear out of thin air. Its name and essence are woven into the fabric of the village that houses it – John O’Groats. 

Local legend tells the tale of Jan de Groot, a Dutchman who established a ferry service between the mainland and Orkney in the late 15th or early 16th century. De Groot, the supposed namesake of John O’Groats, is said to have built an octagonal house with eight doors to prevent arguments over seating at the dinner table amongst his seven sons. This unique architectural detail inspired the distillery’s name and logo.

Husband and Wife Team Bring the Dream to Life

The entrepreneurial spirit behind 8 Doors Distillery belongs to husband and wife duo, Kerry and Derek Campbell. Their vision was to revive whisky production in the village of John O’Groats, a tradition that had been dormant for nearly 185 years since the closure of the last distillery in 1837.

While They Wait, They Create: The Current Offerings

As their single malt whisky matures in casks, 8 Doors Distillery isn’t letting the wait hinder their ability to share their passion. Visitors can enjoy the distillery’s “Seven Sons” range, a selection of small-batch, independent bottlings that offer a glimpse into what awaits with their single malt. These bottlings are a testament to the Campbells’ commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Beyond Whisky: A Taste of the Region

The distillery also produces a unique liqueur called “Five Ways.” This delightful concoction blends whisky, orange, ginger, honey, and spice, offering a taste of the region in a bottle.

A Welcoming Destination: Tours and Tastings

8 Doors Distillery isn’t just about production; it’s about creating an experience. The distillery welcomes visitors seven days a week, offering tours that delve into their story, production process, and of course, a chance to sample their wares. Whether you’re a whisky aficionado or simply curious about the art of distillation, 8 Doors Distillery offers a warm welcome and a taste of Scotland’s most northerly spirit.

Awards Won by 8 Doors Distillery

Tourism Destination of the Year: Awarded at the 2023 Scottish Whisky Awards​​.

Notable Mention: Recognized for excellence in creating a welcoming visitor experience in John O’Groats​​.

First Whisky in John O’Groats: Producing the first single malt whisky in John O’Groats in 185 year.

8 Doors Distillery Tour Information and Experience

8 Doors Distillery offers a variety of immersive tour experiences at their facility in John O’Groats, designed to cater to different interests and time constraints:

Through the Looking Glass Tour: This is a 20-30 minute session held in the Tasting Room. It provides a mini tasting session where visitors can enjoy views of the beautiful copper pot stills and the sea towards Orkney.

Express Tour: Lasting 45-60 minutes, this tour includes a guided visit to the distillery and warehouse, followed by a tasting session in the Tasting Room where guests can sample three different whiskies.

Tasting Tour: This more comprehensive tour lasts 75-90 minutes and offers an in-depth look at the distillery and warehouse operations. It concludes with a tasting session of five different samples in the Tasting Room.

Visitor Information:

  • Opening Hours: The distillery is open seven days a week from 10 AM, providing ample opportunity for visitors to explore the facility.
  • Amenities: The distillery includes a cozy café and whisky lounge where visitors can enjoy drams, whisky coffee, cakes, and cocktails with stunning views of the Pentland Firth.
  • Additional Offerings: Visitors can sample the distillery’s independent bottlings under the brand Seven Sons and a unique blended liqueur called Five Ways, which combines whisky with orange, ginger, honey, and spice.
  • Accessibility: The distillery ensures a welcoming environment for all guests with amenities like accessible parking, level access to the dining areas, and hearing loops.

Special Features:

  • Fill Your Own Bottle: Guests have the unique opportunity to fill their own bottles from a distillery-exclusive cask, complete with a personalized label.
  • Local Attractions: The distillery’s location is perfect for exploring coastal walks and local shops, making it an ideal stop on the North Coast 500 route.

Flask & Barrel Review of 8 Doors Distillery

From the grand old names to the hidden gems, I’ve seen it all. But 8 Doors Distillery in John O’Groats? That was something special.

Now, this isn’t your typical sprawling operation. It’s a proper micro-distillery, cozy and friendly. The owners, Kerry and Derek, were fantastic hosts. They’re clearly passionate about their craft, and their enthusiasm was infectious. The tour itself was informative without being dry. They didn’t shy away from the nitty-gritty details, but they also threw in some fun local history about the whole “eight doors” thing.

As a whiskey collector, what really gets me going is the process. Here, you get to see everything up close and personal. It’s not some industrial mega-brewery situation. You can practically smell the dedication in the air (and maybe a hint of peat smoke, which is always a good thing).

Of course, the real test is in the glass. While I haven’t had the pleasure of trying their own single malt yet (those babies are still maturing), they have this “Seven Sons” selection that’s a great way to see what they’re working towards. Let me tell you, it was darn good. Not something you’d find on every shelf, that’s for sure. They also have this “Five Ways” liqueur that they make; perfect for a little after-dinner something sweet.

All in all, 8 Doors Distillery gets a thumbs up from this whiskey wanderer. It’s a 4.7 out of 5 for sure. If you’re ever in the far north of Scotland, swing by for a tour and a dram. You won’t regret it.

What To Do Nearby 8 Doors Distillery

Duncansby Head (2.5 miles from 8 Doors Distillery): Duncansby Head offers breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and the iconic Duncansby Stacks. It’s a great spot for coastal walks and wildlife spotting, including puffins and seals, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

John O’Groats Signpost (0.2 miles from 8 Doors Distillery): This iconic landmark marks the northeastern tip of mainland Britain. It’s a popular spot for photos and offers beautiful views over the Pentland Firth. Visitors often take a photo with the famous signpost showing distances to various locations.

Puffin Croft Petting Farm & Farm Shop (0.3 miles from 8 Doors Distillery): This family-friendly attraction lets visitors meet a variety of farm animals, including goats, pigs, and rabbits. The farm shop offers unique local products, fresh baked goods, and produce. It’s an enjoyable stop for families with children.

John O’Groats Brewery (0.2 miles from 8 Doors Distillery): Located close to the famous signpost, this local brewery offers a range of craft beers. It’s a great place to relax and sample some local brews, with friendly staff providing insights into their brewing process.

John O’Groats Ferries (0.3 miles from 8 Doors Distillery): This ferry service offers trips to the Orkney Islands, with options for wildlife cruises and sightseeing tours. It’s a fantastic way to explore the surrounding islands and see marine wildlife, including whales and seabirds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near 8 Doors Distillery?

Stacks Deli, Bakery & Coffee House: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Unit 3 Craft Centre, John o’ Groats, KW1 4YR, Scotland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1955 611582.

Skerries Bistro: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Saint Margarets Hope Cleat, St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay KW17 2RW, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441856831605.

Wickers World: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 21 Harbour Quay, Wick KW1 5EP, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441955602433.

What hotels are near 8 Doors Distillery?

The Mey Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Mey, Thurso KW14 8XH, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441847851244.

The Seaview Hotel: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is John o’ Groats, Caithness, KW1 4YR, Scotland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1955 611220.

Natural Retreats John O’Groats: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is John o’ Groats, Wick KW1 4YR, Scotland. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1625 416430.