Springbank Distillery is a family-owned whisky distillery in Campbeltown, on the Kintyre peninsula. Founded in 1828, it keeps traditional production methods in use, including floor malting its own barley. A tour takes you close to the whisky-making process, with the Barley to Bottle option covering the journey from grain to spirit. Tastings and a chance to blend and bottle your own whisky add a hands-on finish. The shop stocks Springbank releases, though older bottles can sell quickly.
A Campbeltown distillery since 1828
Springbank was established in Campbeltown in 1828 and remains in the hands of the founding family’s descendants. It stands on the site of Archibald Mitchell’s illicit still, linking the distillery to the town’s long history of whisky production.
Campbeltown was once known as “Whisky City”. Its whisky industry contracted over time, and today Springbank is one of the town’s active distilleries. The distillery continues to make whisky using traditional methods, with production carried out on site.
From barley to whisky
Springbank floor-malts its own barley, a stage that visitors can see during a tour. The open-topped mash tun is another part of the production process to look out for. Guides explain how the whisky is made, from the barley through to the finished spirit.
The distillery makes three distinct expressions: Springbank, Longrow and Hazelburn. Longrow is peated, while Hazelburn is triple-distilled. A tasting gives you a chance to sample the range after seeing how production works.
Tours, tastings and the shop
Tour options include Barley to Bottle, which follows production in greater depth, and a Kilkerran Warehouse Tour. Some experiences include a tasting and a blending and bottling session, where you can make your own whisky. Check with the distillery when booking for current tour details and availability.
Book in advance to secure a place. The shop sells distillery bottles, including older releases, but those can sell out quickly, so browse early in your visit if you have a particular bottle in mind. Debit cards are accepted. The entrance and parking are wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
When was Springbank Distillery founded?
It was established in Campbeltown in 1828.
Do you need to book a tour?
Booking ahead is advised, particularly during busy periods. Contact the distillery for current tour options and availability.
What can you do on a Springbank tour?
Tours cover whisky production, and some include a tasting or a session to blend and bottle your own whisky.
Is Springbank Distillery wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and parking are listed as wheelchair accessible.
