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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Strathclyde Scotland > Ardbeg Distillery

Ardbeg Distillery

Located on the rugged south coast of Islay, this distillery is world-famous for being one of the peatiest and smokiest of them all. You’ll find it at Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, using the postcode PA42 7EA. Even for a non-drinker, the setting is spectacular—right on the rocky shoreline with waves crashing nearby.

What to Expect and Enjoy
Ardbeg is often voted one of the best distillery visits because it has a very quirky, fun personality compared to some of the more “serious” ones.

  • The Courtyard: The distillery is painted bright white with huge black lettering on the sea-facing wall. The courtyard is a lovely place to sit and soak in the atmosphere.
  • The Kiln Dog: You’ll see their mascot, “Shortie” the Jack Russell, everywhere—from the gift shop to the branding. It gives the place a very friendly, less clinical feel.
  • The Old Kilns: You can see the original pagoda-style roofs where the malt used to be dried over peat fires. It’s a great bit of industrial architecture.

Best For and Time Spent
Great for couples, groups of friends, and foodies.

  • Duration: Most people stay for about 1.5 to 2 hours, especially if they are staying for lunch.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Food & Drink: This is the big secret! Ardbeg’s Old Kiln Café is widely considered one of the best places to eat on the island. They serve huge portions of local food like venison pie and fresh seafood. Even if you don’t like whisky, it’s worth the trip just for the lunch.
  • The Pathway: There is a brilliant, level, and fully paved path that connects the town of Port Ellen to Ardbeg, passing Laphroaig and Lagavulin distilleries along the way. It’s a 3-mile walk or cycle and is completely off-road, making it a very safe and beautiful route even for families.
  • Season: Open all year round, but the café can get very busy, so booking a table for lunch is a smart move.

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