Lagavulin Distillery

Situated at the picturesque Lagavulin Bay, this is an experience not to be missed. Take a tour of the distillery, see our distillers at work and view the unusual pear shaped stills. In 1742 there were at least ten illicit stills at Lagavulin, and it would be another 74 years until local farmer John Johnston founded the first legal distillery, in sight of Dunyvaig Castle. Its name may have changed over the years, but the quiet power of peat and smoke that pervades this masculine malt has not.

Peated malt, slow distillation and long maturation together ensure Lagavulin develops a complex, rich, peaty character. Lagavulin is a spirit which likes to take its time. The definitive Islay malt—intensely flavoured, smoky and rich. The windswept Isle of Islay instils a strength of character into everything it produces and it's here, nestled in a small bay that the beloved Lagavulin whisky has been made for over 200 years.

Address:

Port Ellen, Isle of Islay PA42 7DZ

This distillery is included as part of our Discovering Islay Tour 2.

Located 2 miles from Port Ellen one of Islay’s main sea-ports.

Opening Times:

Opening hours vary. Please visit Lagavulin website for more information.

Podcast:

We interviewed Pierrick Guillaume, Distillery Manager at the Lagavulin Distillery in our November 2021 podcast.

Pierrick talks about the sights, sounds and smells of Islay, why he loves working at the Lagavulin Distillery and the journey that brought him there, and why he’s taken the Lagavulin 12 year old on holiday with him.

Experiences:

LAGAVULIN CLASSIC TOUR £22

See the process behind our whisky, experience our captivating still house and enjoy breath taking views on a guided tour around our award-winning distillery. This comprehensive experience comprises of a guided tour, three-dram tutored tasting (including a sample of our Distillery Exclusive bottling

Duration: 1hr 30mins

LAGAVULIN DISTILLERY EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE £130

Ideal for enthusiasts and those looking for an elevated whisky experience. Beginning with a portion of our production tour (including a visit to our iconic Still House) this premium tasting takes place in our Mackie Lounge, comprising of of four distillery exclusive bottlings and an exquisite single cask sample. To conclude this outstanding experience, you will hand fill a 20cl bottle of the single cask.

Duration: 2hrs

WAREHOUSE NO.3 EXPERIENCE £60

Join us in our newly renovated Warehouse No3 for a Lagavulin cask draw experience. This experience offers a unique opportunity to draw Lagavulin directly from the cask and taste the different stages of its maturation, providing a deeper understanding of the story behind our spirit. Savour Lagavulin straight from a selection of refill hogsheads and rejuvenated red wine casks. Discover the full depth of flavour as our expert host guides you through the rich authentic character of our spirit. Learn how time, wood and craftmanship shape every dram, where the essence of our whisky comes to life.

Duration: 1hr 25mins

PREMIUM WAREHOUSE NO.3 - TOUR & TASTING EXPERIENCE £105

Embark on an enriching journey through Lagavulin Distillery. Your experienced host will lead you through our historic distillery, offering captivating insights into the art of whisky production while you learn about the unique Lagavulin characters of our production process.

Duration: 2 hours

NORTH TO SOUTH £350

This premium tour offers unparalleled access to two of Islay's most iconic distilleries, Lagavulin and Caol Ila. Enjoy hassle-free transportation to and from your accommodation on Islay - relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of Islay as you travel comfortably between distilleries, with two of our foremost whisky experts.

Duration: 7 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

What experiences are available at Lagavulin Distillery?

Lagavulin Distillery offers a range of immersive Islay whisky experiences including the Classic Tour, Distillery Exclusive Experience, Warehouse No.3 Experience, Premium Warehouse Tour & Tasting, and the North to South Islay tour. Visitors can explore one of Islay’s most iconic coastal distilleries, learn about traditional peat-driven whisky production, view the famous pear-shaped stills, and enjoy guided tastings of Lagavulin single malt and exclusive cask-strength expressions.

How long does a Lagavulin Distillery tour take?

Most Lagavulin Distillery experiences last between 1 hour 15 minutes and 2 hours. Standard tours typically run for around 1 hour 30 minutes, while premium warehouse and exclusive tasting experiences can extend up to 2 hours or more.

Is whisky tasting included at Lagavulin Distillery?

Yes, whisky tasting is included in all Lagavulin Distillery experiences. Guests can enjoy guided tastings of Lagavulin single malt whisky, with premium tours offering additional distillery exclusives and cask samples drawn directly from the warehouse.

Do I need to book Lagavulin Distillery tours in advance?

Advance booking is strongly recommended for Lagavulin Distillery tours, especially during peak season and festival periods on Islay, as experiences are popular and can sell out well in advance.

What are the opening hours of Lagavulin Distillery Visitor Centre?

Lagavulin Distillery Visitor Centre opening hours vary seasonally, but it is generally open daily during the main visitor season with tours running at scheduled times throughout the day. Winter opening is more limited, and hours may vary. Visitors are advised to check availability before travelling.

Is Lagavulin Distillery family friendly?

Lagavulin Distillery is family friendly in visitor areas such as the shop and reception. However, distillery tours and tastings are intended for adult visitors, with alcohol sampling restricted to those aged 18 and over.

Is Lagavulin Distillery accessible?

Lagavulin Distillery offers accessible visitor areas in the shop and parts of the visitor centre. However, some production and warehouse spaces may include steps or uneven surfaces due to the historic coastal site layout. Visitors are advised to check accessibility requirements in advance.

Is parking available at Lagavulin Distillery?

Yes, parking is available for visitors at Lagavulin Distillery, including a small on-site car park. Spaces can be limited during peak season and festival periods on Islay, so early arrival is recommended.

Does Lagavulin Distillery have a café or shop?

Lagavulin Distillery has a visitor shop offering whisky, gifts, and exclusive bottlings. While there is no full café on site, visitors can enjoy tasting experiences and nearby dining options in Port Ellen.

Where is Lagavulin Distillery located?

Lagavulin Distillery is located on the south coast of the Isle of Islay near Port Ellen, overlooking Lagavulin Bay and close to neighbouring distilleries such as Laphroaig and Ardbeg.