Deanston Distillery will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a week of events running from October 11 to 17, 2026. The Highland single malt producer will cap the festivities with a Distillery Open Day on Saturday, October 17, marking six decades since the former cotton mill was converted into a distillery in 1966.
Deanston sits on the banks of the River Teith near Doune in central Scotland. The site was a cotton mill designed by Sir Richard Arkwright, and remained as such for 180 years until it was transformed into a distillery in 1966. The constant supply of pure water from the River Teith contributed to the decision to turn the mill into a distillery and Deanston is now the only distillery in Scotland to be self-sufficient in electricity, with power generated by an on-site hydro-energy facility.
Anyone celebrating their own 60th birthday in 2026 can bring a guest for a complimentary distillery tour or tasting at Deanston until March 21, 2027.
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Visitors during the week can enjoy behind-the-scenes tours and tastings, live music, and the chance to buy limited-edition 60th Anniversary whiskies.
Pete Semple, Visitor Centre Manager at Deanston Distillery, said: “Sixty years is a huge milestone for Deanston and gives us the opportunity to welcome in the people who have worked here, the families and communities who have grown up alongside the distillery, and the generations of whisky lovers who have made Deanston part of their lives.”
He added: “This anniversary is our chance to open the doors and share our passion with everyone, to let them see where our whisky is made, hear the stories and meet the people behind it. Most importantly, it’s a chance to raise a dram and celebrate 60 years together.”
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READ THE STORYA Community Day on Wednesday October 14 will welcome residents of Deanston, Doune and Callander, along with former colleagues and local community groups, for complimentary tours and tastings.
Highlights for enthusiasts include a Master Distillers’ Tasting spanning four eras of the distillery, tours led by current and former distillery managers, and a special exploration of the former weaving shed, which has housed maturing Deanston whisky since 1966.
Deanston produces a Highland single malt known for its honeyed, waxy character. Today owned by CVH Spirits, Deanston generates all its electricity through an on-site hydro turbine.
Tickets for special tastings and tours are available through the Deanston website, with limited places for some events.
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