Scotland and distilleries are two words that just go together. With more than 150 operating distilleries across the country, it’s no secret the country has an array of tasting options for spirit-loving travelers. While the highest concentration of distilleries are found in the Speyside region, there are more convenient options for those looking to make a trip from one of the main cities.
Location, Location, Location
The newly opened Eden Mill Distillery produces gin and single-malt whisky, and is located in the beautiful coastal town of St. Andrews. Around an hour from Edinburgh by car or train, it’s famous for its prestigious university and the Old Course, where golf was invented back in the 15th century.
As someone who always thinks of Edinburgh or Glasgow as the go-to places in Scotland, St. Andrews really surprised me in so many ways. From the rugged harborwalk and historical sites to the underrated food scene and charming pubs, it’s a fantastic destination in its own right.
Once home to the Guardbridge Paper Mill from 1874-2008, the Eden Mill was founded in 2012 and blends history with modern flair. With its distinct black and white buildings along the water, pulling up to the distillery is almost as impressive as its spirits. Sat along the serene banks of the Eden Estuary, the town’s skyline peaks out ever so slightly in the distance, a convenient seven-minute drive to St. Andrews, to be exact.
Sustainable Spirits
Since becoming fully operational in April 2025, the distillery is making significant efforts to operate sustainably. Located on the University of St Andrews’ Eden Campus, the distillery runs entirely on renewable electricity, sourced directly from the University’s solar farm or through sustainable tariffs on the grid.
Scotland is a thriving hub for distilleries due to its lush landscapes, clean waters, and abundant botanicals. So it’s only fitting that barley at Eden Mill is grown nearby in Fife and key botanicals are sourced as locally to the distillery as possible. Sitting in a rustic countryside bothy and sampling Eden Mill’s iconic Golf Gin, which is infused with foraged ingredients from the Old Course, is a truly singular experience.
Thirst for Knowledge
With so many newbies looking to learn more about spirits, distilleries have become destinations in their own right. With elevated dining options, buzzing bar areas, tasting rooms, and even museums, they’ve really come a long way in the past few years—and Eden Mill is no exception.
The distillery’s visitor center includes an expansive ground floor with a large retail space and golf simulator. To learn more about the art of distilling, Eden Mill’s gin tours will include tubs filled with botanicals that can be touched, for a unique and immersive experience. For avid spirit-lovers looking to own a little piece of St. Andrews, the Cask Club allows members to fill their own cask with private access to their own room onsite.
