Bowmore Distillery
Bogh Mòr
One of the oldest distilleries on Islay, located by the sea in Bowmore, the island's capital. Its warehouses overlook Loch Indaal.
Bowmore Distillery was founded in 1779 and is one of the oldest licensed distilleries still operating on Islay. It still uses some floor malting. The famous No. 1 Vault sits below sea level, and during tours you can taste whisky straight from the casks inside. The distillery is in the center of Bowmore, where you can walk to the Round Church, shops and restaurants. The town is also the island's main bus hub, making it a good first stop for visitors without a car. Tours must be booked in advance.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:30–17:00 (shorter in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Kilarrow Parish Church (Round Church)
- Islay Woollen Mill
- Bruichladdich Distillery
- RSPB Loch Gruinart
- Museum of Islay Life
- Port Charlotte
- Kilnave Chapel & Cross
- Finlaggan