JOIN THE WORLD’S MOST ADVENTUROUS WHISKY TRAIL

The Hebridean Whisky Trail is a uniquely wild and beautiful whisky adventure along an iconic tourism route. We offer visitors an opportunity to experience the rich culture, provenance and varied landscapes of our Hebridean Islands in their quest for the perfect dram.

The trail was launched in 2018 by Karen Betts, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association. Designed with intrepid whisky wanderers in mind, and set amidst some of Scotland’s most scenic sea and mountain locations, each distillery has its own character and atmosphere. From the oldest, Jura, founded in 1810, to the youngest, Benbecula, established in 2024, each member offers something distinct in terms of heritage, tours and whisky.

Whisky tourism is vital to the Hebridean economy and rural communities. According to the Scotch Whisky’s Economic Impact Report 2022, the industry’s impact on the Highlands and Islands was £799m, 25% Direct Production GVA.
By creating a trail which aims to increase visitor footfall across our many fragile island communities, we are creating jobs and sustaining communities, resulting in a strong positive impact.

MEMBER BENEFITS
DEDICATED YEAR-ROUND SUPPORT
Your membership fee funds a part-time development manager to chart the course for our annual festival and conduct year-round promotional efforts. Managing social media, the website, our ever-growing subscriber newsletter, and media queries, she ensures your story is told far and wide, across land and sea.
FEATURE ON OUR WEBSITE
Each member has a dedicated page on our website and is included in our map. In our blog, we highlight new members and special updates, as well as recommend bespoke itineraries for whisky lovers seeking to explore the rich maritime provenance of Hebridean whiskies.
EXPAND YOUR REACH
We proudly showcase your whisky experiences, visitor centre, and retail shop to whisky lovers both locally and globally. Monthly social media posts and periodic newsletters are crafted to elevate your brand and invite visitors to the Hebrides.
SEASONAL MARKETING MATERIALS
Each Spring, receive updated promotional leaflets, posters, banners and pin badges to share. These materials are distributed to visitor centres and local hubs, ensuring your distilllery is front-and-centre across Scotland.
EXCLUSIVE WHISKY TRAIL ADVENTURE
Our digital passport encourages whisky enthusiasts to embark on a full Hebridean journey, visiting each member distillery over time. This helps bring more visitors to your doorstep, raising the profile of your island craft.
SUPPORTING OUR ISLAND COMMUNITIES
Each year, members choose a charity to support. We give our pin badges away for free with a suggested donation, the proceeds going to our charity of choice. In 2024, we raised funds for the RNLI to celebrate their 200th anniversary.
GLOBAL RECOGNITION
The Hebridean Whisky Trail has gained recognition from major tourism bodies including VisitScotland and the Spirit of Scotland. We have been celebrated in Whisky Magazine, and in additional publications in the UK, France, Germany, the US, and on BBC Radio. We’re currently working with a North American influencer for something special in 2025.
Don’t miss this wave of opportunity, join the Hebridean Whisky Trail today!

THE HEBRIDEAN WHISKY FESTIVAL

The Hebridean Whisky Festival has become an anticipated annual celebration showcasing the best of the Hebridean Whisky Trail. Held every September, this exclusive celebration brings together all members for a week-long journey through the islands, where each distillery hosts its own special day of events. The festival culminates in the unforgettable Festival Finale, hosted by a different member each year.
Distillery Days are an opportunity for members to offer visitors unique experiences not typically available throughout the year. Open the doors to your distillery archives, host intimate Meet the Maker sessions, or curate exquisite food pairings that highlight your whisky’s character. This is your chance to create memorable experiences for whisky lovers. Members are invited to collaborate with local businesses and community groups to add depth and authenticity to the festival—such as Gaelic tours, barley crafts, sea kayaking adventures, and lively ceilidhs.
Our Festival Finale is the heart of the celebration, where all members join together in a much-anticipated climax. Hosted by a different member each year, venues have included Talisker (2023), Torabhaig (2024), and Isle of Harris Distillery (2025). This grand event is defined by the host – perhaps filled with activities spaning complementary tastings, special events, and shopping delights. In the past, guests have been treated to food, live music, and an all-day festive atmosphere. Feedback consistently informs us our guests love to see all our members joining together for the finale.
The festival is growing in popularity, with 1,300 visitors enjoying the Distillery Days in 2024, with a further 600 attending the Festival Finale.


MEMBERSHIP FEES
Members receive a seat on the board, year-round marketing activities,
promotional materials and full participation in our
exclusive whisky festival. at no additional cost.
Full Membership is open to any distillery actively trading in single malt Scotch whisky with an established distillery based in the Scottish Hebrides.
Our New Make Membership is open to any distillery based in the Scottish Hebrides with evidence of intent to distil. They receive full benefits and a discount.
Membership incurs an annual fee from 1st March each year, with dues payable on an agreed date. The 2024 Full Membership fee was £5,000.
Join us in creating a 21st-century legacy of distilling in the Hebrides.
To apply or enquire,
please contact our development manager:
Cindy Campbell
07549 941988

2024 MEMBER REPRESENTATIVES
Bill Dobbie, Chairman, R&B Distillers (Isle of Raasay Distillery)
Louise Ellis, Diageo (Talisker)
Simon Erlanger, Isle of Harris Distillers
Kieran Healey-Ryder, Whyte & Mackay (Jura)
Jonny Ingledew, North Uist Distillery
Angus A. MacMillan, Benbecula Distillery
Anne O’Lone, Torabhaig Distillery

By joining the Hebridean Whisky Trail, you’ll be part of a vibrant, Hebridean-wide community connecting your distillery with whisky enthusiasts, local culture, and the global whisky community. It’s an exceptional opportunity to showcase your craft, collaborate with fellow members, and build lasting connections with visitors.
To apply or enquire,
please contact our development manager:
Cindy Campbell
07549 941988

The Hebridean Whisky Trail Ltd. is a private company limited by guarantee.