Find your Hoppy Place!
With the Hogmanay celebrations just around the corner, VisitScotland has brewed up its very first craft beer map!
Article Source: VisitScotland
Last Updated: 27 December 2017 11:36
It’s believed that beer has been brewed in Scotland for more than 5000 years and with more than 115 breweries, stretching from the Valhalla Brewery on Unst in Shetland to Portpatrick Brewery near Stranraer, Scotland is in the midst of a craft beer revolution.
Scotland’s Craft Beer Map will allow beer lovers to plot their very own ale adventures as they work their way around the country discovering some of the finest craft brews.
The new map currently holds details of more than 70 producers, with more expected to be added in future. Virtual visitors can explore beers by region, find their favourite brands and embark on tours and tastings.
Steve Duncan, VisitScotland Marketing Manager, said: “Beer is pretty big business in Scotland. With more than 115 breweries operating across the country, the variety and quality of beer and ale being produced and served in Scotland's bars and pubs and available in our shops and supermarkets is greater than ever.
“This new interactive map, which can be easily updated, has been created to make it easy for visitors to include a brewery tour as part of a holiday or short break in Scotland as well as recognising the growing interest in Scotland’s craft beer sector.
“As we head towards Hogmanay and with Burns Night in January on the horizon, this is an ideal time to put Scotland’s breweries on the map and inspire visitors to include a visit to a brewery in their 2018 travel plans.“
Caroline Wengel, The Brewers Association of Scotland's (TBAS) Business Development Manager, said: "We are delighted to be working with VisitScotland to help showcase Scotland's diverse brewing industry. The Scottish food and drink story is a real success and the beer revolution is at the heart of it. We know that visitors to our country love to eat and drink locally made produce and this new interactive map will help tourists discover breweries to visit and beers to try during their trip."
No matter where you are in Scotland, you’re never far from a good local craft beer...
BrewDog
Probably one of Scotland’s best known ale exports, BrewDog is the big dog when it comes to beer tasting experiences. It has held the title of World’s Strongest Beer three times, most recently with a 55% beer packaged in taxidermy roadkill. Their brewery in Ellon, Aberdeenshire is their global headquarters and it’s here you can enjoy a 90 minute interactive tour of their epic new Brewhouse, as well as a tour of their new LoneWolf Distillery. After the tour, visitors can enjoy the brewery taproom DogTap, for more beers and food.
Born in the Borders
The only brewery in Scotland where you can go grass sledging and the only one to have created a giant crop circle pint out of a field of barley, Born in the Borders is a multi-award winning farm-based microbrewery located near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders. Established in 2011, the brewery creates real ale using barley grown in the fields around it. Visitors can take self-guided brewery tours, eat at the onsite restaurant and visit the farm shop. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Broughton Brewery
Located in the Scottish Borders just off the A701, this is Scotland’s original, independent brewery where they have been brewing delicious beers authentically since 1979. All of the beers are hand-crafted using traditional open fermentation, and a malt mill dating back to the 1960s. Their award-winning lagers, ales, stouts and speciality beers include Hopopotamus IPA, Old Jock Ale, Greenmantle and as the brewery is only two miles from his grave, Merlin’s Ale.
Cairngorm Brewery
Situated in the village of Aviemore within the Cairngorms National Park, Cairngorm Brewery was established in 2001. Keen to keep traditional recipes alive, as well as brewing new and interesting styles, the brewery has gained many awards and accolades for their beers. This 4 star visitor attraction is open all year round while the brewery shop offers tours and tastings.
Colonsay Brewery
For a small island, Colonsay is a big player in the craft alcohol market creating both beers and gin. The pace of life on Colonsay is slow, it’s like stepping back in time – nobody is in a hurry. And that goes for Colonsay Brewery’s beers which are slow-brewed to deliver maximum flavour and refreshment. They source the very best natural Scottish ingredients, including pure Hebridean water, to make three core beers – IPA, 80/- and Pig’s Paradise Blonde.
Cross Borders Brewing Company Ltd
Brewing ‘braw’ beer since 2016, Cross Borders produce a range of multi-award-winning craft beers in cask, keg and can. Widely distributed across Scotland and North East England, you’ll find their brews in many of the finest pubs, bars and independent retailers. They use only the best ingredients, experimenting with new styles and re-inventing traditional beers with a contemporary twist. And they do all of this with a sense of adventure and excitement, always seeking to cross new borders in beer. From early 2018, visitors will be able to experience a new range of tours and tastings sessions.
Drygate Brewery Co
Nestled in the historic heart of Glasgow, Drygate is the UK’s first experiential microbrewery, creating fresh and modern beer under the iconic Seven Peaks of 85 Drygate. It is the intention of this Brewer to collaborate and cultivate links with their community, inviting all those with open minds to embark on a journey of brewing and discovery.
Fyne Ales
Fyne Ales is an authentic Scottish farmhouse brewery that has been creating award-winning beers since 2001. Based in the stunning surroundings of Glen Fyne at the head of Scotland’s longest sea loch, Fyne Ales Brewery Tap & Shop was named ‘Beer Destination of the Year’ at the 2017 Scottish Beer Awards.
Laig Bay Brewing Company
The beautiful small Isle of Eigg, off the West Highland coast, is only 12 square miles in size and is arguably the smallest island in the world with a brewery. In 2017 the island community of Eigg celebrated two decades as a self-sustaining island. Laig Bay Brewing Company brews small-batch artisan beer steeped in its wild locale. Its remote location means visits must be arranged by appointment.
To explore Scotland’s Craft Beer Map and learn more about Scottish beer visit: www.visitscotland.com/see-do/food-drink/breweries-craft-beer/map/
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
David Attenborough and Eurovision steal the spotlight at Vue venues in Scotland this month
Audiences are invited to travel the globe - both musically and visually - this May, as both David Attenborough and Eurovision head to the big screen at Vue venues across Scotland.
READ MORE
May and June at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Music to Father's Day, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in May and June!
READ MORE
Here & Now showcase returns to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Here & Now returns to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe ith a brilliant programme of the best dance, installation, integrated performance, movement and theatre being created in England right now.
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Film Festival 2025 to open with acclaimed SORRY, BABY by Eva Victor
Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has today announced Eva Victor’s acclaimed comedy-drama SORRY, BABY will open the Festival in August.
READ MORE
The Royal Yacht Britannia Exhibition and Retail Experience are shipshape and ready to welcome visitors
2025 marks the next chapter in The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust’s legacy with the opening of a brand-new, world-class visitor centre with exhibition and retail experience.
READ MORE
Pavilion Festival rounds off biggest event yet with Happy Mondays and STREETrave Classical
Pavilion Festival has rounded off its biggest ever event with over 16,000 music fans enjoying three days of non-stop live music and feel good vibes on Ayr’s iconic Low Green.
READ MORE
Cold Town House in Edinburgh partners with Aperol to transform iconic rooftop bar
Cold Town House in the Grassmarket has teamed up with Italy’s iconic orange bittersweet aperitif, Aperol, to add some spritz to its city centre location from May until September.
READ MORE
Major new displays at National Galleries Scotland: Modern One this summer
Discover some of the biggest names in modern and contemporary art at Modern One this Summer with a series of free ARTIST ROOMS displays in Edinburgh from 12 July 2025.
READ MORE
Cineworld announces first ever 4DX Family Day
For one day only, families can experience Moana, Paddington, and Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in immersive 4DX at all 34 Cineworld 4DX screens nationwide.
READ MORE
Giant Lanterns are back with a splash at Edinburgh Zoo!
For the first time in six years, Edinburgh Zoo is bringing its Giant Lanterns event back with a splash this winter.
READ MORE
Brand new show Something About Lennon opens UK tour this month with Scottish dates
Celebration of the iconic late Beatle's life and music will be performed at 26 venues nationwide.
READ MORE
Celebrate Fathers Day in Style with Dobbies Sunday Lunch and Planting Experience
This June, Dobbies Garden Centres is presenting a brand-new way to celebrate Father’s Day, combining a hearty Sunday roast with a hands-on grow-your-own herb planting workshop.
READ MORE
Blue Light Awards Scotland to honour emergency services heroes
Nominations for the Blue Light Awards Scotland, recognising the courage, commitment and community spirit of our Blue Light Services, are now open.
READ MORE
Funding awarded to seven projects for tree planting in cities and towns across Scotland
The Urban Forestry Programme is supporting projects in urban areas to help more people experience the benefits of trees.
READ MORE
Gilded Balloon announce 40th anniversary programming
One of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe’s most iconic venues, Gilded Balloon, has announced a huge roster of legendary names to celebrate its 40th anniversary this August.
READ MORE
Conifox Champions Allergy Inclusion for Families
Allergy Awareness in Action as Conifox Adventure Park sets a new standard for safe family days out.
READ MORE
Rory McIlroy Confirmed for Genesis Scottish Open
Newly-crowned Masters Tournament champion Rory McIlroy is set to compete for a second Genesis Scottish Open title!
READ MORE
Skerryvore castle concert capacity grows due to global demand
A special one-off event celebrating the 20th anniversary of beloved Scottish band Skerryvore is getting even bigger, organisers have announced.
READ MORE
Edinburgh International Book Festival announces expanded The Front List series for 2025
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is delighted to announce the second year of The Front List, in partnership with Underbelly.
READ MORE
Fat Hippo fans prepare for the ultimate CheezHIT
Roll up your sleeves and get stuck in as Cheez-It® and Fat Hippo announce the ultimate collaboration.
READ MORE
Holding Back The Years: 40 Years of Simply Red in cinemas May 15
To celebrate 40 years of legendary music, Simply Red are releasing their concert film 'Holding Back the Years: 40 Years of Simply Red, Live in Santiago' on the big screen.
READ MORE
This May bank holiday weekend sees 3 day festival take over Ayr Beach and the sun is set to shine!
Pavilion Festival 2025: From Big Top, live music to secret gigs - here's what to expect!
READ MORE
Fun for all the family at the 36th annual Scottish Game Fair
The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair is back for its 36th year at Scone Palace, taking place 4th - 6th July 2025.
READ MORE
Free Glorious Grass gardening workshop for children at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres are welcoming children across the UK to join in on the fun this May to uncover all there is to know about grass at its free Little Seedlings Club workshop.
READ MORE
Edinburgh shopper scoops hundreds of pounds for CHAS in ALDI Supermarket Sweep
Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep challenge recently returned to Edinburgh, and one lucky local winner has raised £726.77 for CHAS while picking up the same amount in Aldi favourites for herself.
READ MORE
Barrowland Ballet take over Scotland with two shows this year
Award-winning dance company Barrowland Ballet present world premiere of Wee Man and the revival of Chunky Jewellery, ahead of Edinburgh Festival Fringe transfers this year.
READ MORE
Somewhere by Nico launches its first ever Cocktail Festival in Glasgow and Edinburgh
Cocktail Festival will serve customers £5 cocktails highlighting signature cocktails including the classics we all love, from Margaritas to Daiquiris!
READ MORE
Top Scottish chefs take on ultimate kitchen cook off at food hall Bonnie & Wild
Some of Scotland’s best chefs are sharpening their knives for the ultimate kitchen cook-off at Scottish food hall Bonnie & Wild.
READ MORE
New spring season for a new look Capital Theatres
Capital Theatres’ spring season brings with it a new look, new shows and new extraordinary experiences.
READ MORE
Travel back in time to The World of King James VI and I
A special, one-off exhibition opens at the Portrait gallery in Edinburgh this Saturday (26 April), charting the remarkable reign of King James VI and I.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links