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  1. Home
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  4. Beer & breweries

Moulin Hotel, Pitlochry

Perth and Kinross council / Fred Murray

Breweries and craft beer to try in Scotland

Catch the citrusy scent of hops and toasted malt, then savour the cool first sip of a beer brewed in Scotland.

Scotland's craft beer credentials

So why Scotland for beer? From soft spring water and locally grown barley to centuries of brewing know-how, Scotland has all the ingredients for memorable pints. Today, our historic breweries, island microbreweries and city taprooms pour everything from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to rich ales inspired by the country’s brewing past.

Why did Scotland become famous for beer?

Scotland became known worldwide for its beer production, thanks to its brewing centres in Edinburgh and Alloa, which exported Scottish ales across the British Empire.

What caused the rise of modern Scottish craft beer?

The early 21st-century was propelled by the introduction of the Progressive Beer Duty (now Small Brewers Relief), this lowered taxes for many small-scale breweries to get creative with their beer making.

A shelf fully stocked with Isle of Arran beers

© Isle of Arran Brewery

Brewery experiences in Scotland

Breathe in the hoppy, malty aromas of Scotland’s breweries, where a fresh pint awaits - as well as lots of knowledge. There are more than 100 breweries in Scotland that offer tours and experiences. See, hear and taste the world of craft beer up close at one of these venues – this is just a selection of places you can visit.

Stewart Brewing, Loanhead, Edinburgh – every Friday, step behind the scenes amid the clink of beer glasses and choose a beer flight from 18 taps pouring quality brews.

Uile-bheist Distillery & Brewery, Inverness, Scottish Highlands – soak up the aromas of this brewhouse during an in-depth conversation with an expert brewer, or acquaint yourself with Uile-bheist’s folklore, mythology and history. Accessible tours are available.

Isle of Arran Brewery, Isle of Arran – from Monday to Friday, follow the journey from brewery story to production floor, surrounded by the sights and scents of brewing, before finishing at the bar with a tasting session.

Traquair House Brewery, Innerleithen, Scottish Borders – raise a glass of award-winning ale and savour its rich flavours in a tasting experience shaped by this historic brewery, one of Scotland’s oldest.

Orkney Brewery, Stromness, Orkney – from Monday to Saturday, spend 20 minutes close to the brewing action, taking in the equipment and process that give each ale its distinctive taste before it is bottled.

Tennent's Wellpark Brewery, Glasgow – step into the story of one of Scotland’s most iconic beer brands, amid the sights and sounds of its working brewery, with tours running every day.

Belhaven Brewery, Dunbar, East Lothian – breathe in the malty aromas at Scotland’s oldest brewery, founded in 1719, on an informative tour that finishes with tastings.

Burnside Brewery, Aberdeenshire – roll up your sleeves and brew your own beer on-site, then sample a flavour-packed range of award-winning craft and alcohol-free beers.

Discover more brewery tours across Scotland

 

A pint of beer at Fyne Ales Brewery

© Fyne Ales

Bellfield Brewery Taproom & Beer Garden, Edinburgh

Lerwick Brewery

© Lerwick Brewery

Orkney Brewery

© Visit Orkney / Colin Keldie

Stewart Brewing, Loanhead

© Stewart Brewing

WEST Brewery, Glasgow

Scottish breweries map

Picture a freshly poured pint at a quirky Scottish brewery. Explore the full list of breweries you can visit across Scotland.

Find your nearest Scottish brewery

FAQs

How far does Scottish craft beer date back?

Scottish craft beer dates back to the Neolithic period, with evidence of early brewing on sites such as Skara Brae in Orkney and the Isle of Rum.

What ingredients were traditionally used in early Scottish brewing?

Early Scottish brewers used local botanicals like meadowsweet, heather, and bog myrtle to flavour their beer. These plants helped define the distinctive flavour of ancient Scottish ales.

When did brewing become widespread in Scotland?

By the 12th century, brewing was common in monasteries and religious houses, which took advantage of Scotland's high-quality spring water.

Which areas of Scotland have the most breweries?

Our breweries are spread across the country but the most popular brewing regions include:

  • Edinburgh & the Lothians (historical brewing centre)
  • Glasgow (modern craft breweries and bars)
  • Highlands & Islands (farm breweries and scenic microbreweries)
  • Argyll & Bute (home to breweries like Fyne Ales)

Do Scottish breweries use local ingredients?

Yes, many rely on Scottish spring water, locally grown barley and malts and native botanicals including heather.

What other Scottish craft beer brands can I find in Scotland? 

There are so many craft beer brands to try in Scotland. Whether you enjoy fruity concoctions or crave simplicity, the country is home to a thriving craft beer scene. Here are just a few recommendations to get you started. 

Fyne Ales, Cairndow, Argyll & Bute – this farm-based craft brewery in Argyll produces exceptional traditional cask ales like Jarl and focuses on modern craft styles. 

Tempest Brewing Co, Galashiels, Scottish Borders –this craft beer brand is known for their modern, innovative brews. Their flagship pale ale, Long White Cloud, tantalises the taste buds with its tropical fruit flavour. 

Fierce Beer, Aberdeen – known for their experimental craft beers, you’ll find gems including Fancy Juice, North Sea IPA and Fierce Iron Brew which pack a punch of flavour. These beers are also gluten-free and vegan friendly too. 

Black Isle Brewery, Scottish Highlands – known for its fully, organic beers. All the barley and hops are grown from their own farm with lots of vegetarian-friendly options. 

Find your perfect Scottish craft beer

What is the difference between Scottish craft beer, ale and lager?

Craft beers – these must be brewed by independent breweries. It can also include any style of beer from ales, lagers, stouts, sours, IPAs and barrel-aged beers. 

Ales – made with top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, ales often come in more fruity flavours. Common ales include IPA, red and brown ale, stout, porter and Scottish ale. 

Lagers – made with bottom-fermenting yeast at cool temperatures. These are lighter and more refreshing in terms of taste. Common lager styles include Helles, Pilsner, Vienna lager and Dunkel.

What is the 'shilling' system?

Historically, the shilling system represented how much a barrel of beer cost, with stronger beers costing more. They were often defined into the following categories: 

60/- (Scottish Light) ABV 2.5-3.5% – typically light-bodied, malt-focused and darker in flavour. 

70/- (Scottish Heavy) ABV 3.5-4.0% – sweeter and caramel-rich, maltier and fuller in flavour in comparison to 60/-. 

80/- (Scottish Export) ABV 4.0-5.0% – richer, darker and deeper malt characteristics. 

90/- and 120/ (Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy) ABV 6.9%-8.5%+ – very rich, sweet, full-bodied, often with notes of caramel and dark fruit.

What are the opening hours of breweries in Scotland? 

There is no standard day of closure for breweries in Scotland. Some are open seven days a week while others operate Monday to Saturday and close on Sunday. We recommend visiting the individual websites of breweries to get the latest updates on opening hours.

Experience a Scottish beer festival

Join the craft beer revolution and sample some of the finest beers from Scotland and around the world.

Search for beer festivals

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