Visiting the Glenlivet distillery requires booking a tour in advance, with specific hours and rules, as it is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is not just a distillery but also a functioning museum that houses a rare edition of a comprehensive work on English distilleries, which marks the beginning of our journey through Glenlivet.
In an edition of Harper’s dated 5 March 1887, it is mentioned that in early 1885, Alfred Barnard, while visiting many Highland distilleries, noticed that the whisky community was largely unaware of the origins of various whisky brands. At public sales and in the market, names like Glen this and Ben that were commonly used, yet few knew anything about their locations or production methods. This observation led to the idea of personally visiting every distillery in the United Kingdom to describe their history, location, and production processes.
Barnard completed this monumental task, and his work was published in a 500-page book by Harper’s in 1887. Original editions now sell for over £2,000, but the book has been reprinted several times, most notably in 2008 by Edinburgh publisher Birlinn. This edition includes not only a facsimile of the original text but also several pamphlets Barnard was later commissioned to write by various distillers.
These pamphlets include "How to Blend Scotch Whisky" for Mackie & Co, and works on the distilleries and brands of Pattison, Elder & Co, John Walker & Sons Ltd, Highland Distillers, and Dalmore. Following the publication of this book, a stand-alone edition on Dalmore was released by Distilled Discourse in 2010, and American whisky enthusiast Aaron Barker republished Barnard’s "A Visit to Watson’s Dundee Whisky Stores" and "A Ramble Through Classic Canongate: In Connection With J&G Stewart’s Olde Scots Whisky Edinburgh."
Undeterred by the exhaustive research and writing of The Whisky Distilleries, Alfred Barnard undertook a parallel project on beer, visiting 110 breweries between 1889 and 1891, which was published as the multi-volume "Noted Breweries of Great Britain and Ireland." Barnard passed away in 1918 at the age of 81 in Croydon, south London. His industrious work throughout his life has earned him an esteemed place in whisky history as the author of arguably the most important book on the subject.
A Day-Long Road Trip Through Scotland's History, Whisky, and Coastal Beauty
Embark on a journey that weaves together Scotland’s rich history, world-renowned whisky heritage, and breathtaking coastal landscapes, all in a single, unforgettable day.
Morning: The Battle of Culloden Begin your day with a visit to the Culloden Battlefield, located near Inverness. This haunting site marks the end of the Jacobite Rising and, tragically, the last pitched battle fought on the British mainland.
Midday: Speyside and Its Legendary Distilleries From Culloden, drive south into the heart of Speyside, Scotland’s premier whisky-producing region. Speyside is home to some of the most famous distilleries in the world, where you can savor the true spirit of Scotland. Visit the Glenlivet Distillery, known for its smooth, floral whisky, and BenRiach, which prides itself on innovation and tradition. Of course, no whisky tour would be complete without a stop at Cardhu Distillery, the first distillery to be officially pioneered by a woman.
Afternoon: The Beauty of Cullen and the Northern Coast After indulging in Speyside’s finest, head northeast towards the coast to the charming village of Cullen. This area is not only known for its stunning seaside views but also for Cullen Skink, a traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty dish before exploring the nearby Findlater Castle ruins. Perched dramatically on a cliff edge overlooking the Moray Firth, these ruins offer a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and provide spectacular views of the surrounding coast.
Evening: Bow Fiddle Rock and the Moray Firth Conclude your day with a visit to Bow Fiddle Rock, a natural sea arch that resembles the tip of a fiddle bow, located near the village of Portknockie. This iconic rock formation is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers, especially during sunset, when the play of light on the rock and the surrounding sea creates a magical atmosphere.
This day trip not only immerses you in the rich history and culture of Scotland but also showcases the stunning natural beauty that defines this land. From the tragic end of the Highland clans at Culloden to the serene beauty of Bow Fiddle Rock, this journey is a perfect blend of history, whisky, and coastal wonder.
