Visiting Eden Mill Distillery

Travel Distilled tells you all you need to know about visiting Eden Mill Distillery in St Andrews, Scotland, including what tours are available.

The Eden Mill Distillery near St Andrews in Scotland
The Eden Mill Distillery near St Andrews in Scotland

Eden Mill Distillery near St Andrews is a unique Scottish craft distillery that blends centuries of brewing heritage with modern innovation. Founded in 2012 on the historic site of the Haig family’s Seggie Distillery, it has become renowned for its creative gins, pioneering single malt whiskies, and immersive visitor experiences. Here is a detailed exploration of its history, signature releases, and tour options, with full contact details.

Where is Eden Mill Distillery?

Eden Mill Distillery Google Map
Eden Mill Distillery Google Map

The Eden Mill Distillery is about five miles north of the centre of St Andrews in the village of Guardbridge, roughly a 15-minute drive. If you want to stay near the distillery there are a couple of accommodation options nearby, and one or two eating places too.

History of Eden Mill Distillery

  • Early Roots (1810): The story begins in Guardbridge, Fife, where William Haig established the Seggie Distillery in 1810. This site became part of Scotland’s distilling legacy, tied to the famous Haig family who were instrumental in shaping Scotch whisky.
  • Revival (2012): After lying dormant for decades, the site was reborn in 2012 as Eden Mill. It became Scotland’s first combined brewery and distillery, producing beer, gin, and whisky under one roof.
  • Innovation and Sustainability: Eden Mill is located on the University of St Andrews’ Eden Campus, an innovation hub focused on sustainability. This gives the distillery a strong tie to eco-conscious practices, including renewable energy and sustainable packaging.
  • Spirit of St Andrews: Positioned on the banks of the Eden Estuary, Eden Mill embraces its coastal environment, with salt air and estuarine breezes influencing its character. The distillery has become a symbol of modern Scottish craft spirits, balancing tradition with creativity.
Eden Mill Distillery Gin and Cocktails
Eden Mill Distillery Gin and Cocktails

Signature Releases

Eden Mill is celebrated for both its gin innovations and its single malt whiskies:

  • Gin Range:
    • Original Gin: A classic London Dry style with botanicals like juniper, coriander, and angelica.
    • Love Gin: A pink gin infused with rose petals and raspberries, offering a floral, fruity profile.
    • Golf Gin: Inspired by St Andrews’ golfing heritage, crafted with botanicals found on golf courses.
    • Oak Gin: Aged in oak casks, giving depth and complexity unusual in gin. They also have gins aged in red wine casks and white wine casks.
  • Whisky Releases:
    • Eden Mill Single Malt: Produced using brewing malts such as pale, chocolate, and crystal malt, creating a distinctive flavor profile with notes of orchard fruit and caramel.
Eden Mill Distillery Guard Bridge Whisky
Eden Mill Distillery Guard Bridge Whisky
    • The Guard Bridge: A blended malt whisky that pays homage to the distillery’s location and history.
    • Limited Editions: Eden Mill often releases small-batch whiskies showcasing experimental cask finishes and innovative mash bills.
  • Special Collections:
    • Seasonal releases such as The Pink One and The Golf One highlight Eden Mill’s playful approach to spirits.
    • Gift sets and tasting kits allow visitors to explore the range in curated experiences.
Eden Mill Distillery Spirits Collection
Eden Mill Distillery Spirits Collection

Visiting Eden Mill Distillery

Visiting Eden Mill is more than a tour—it’s an immersive experience combining history, craftsmanship, and hospitality.

  • Location: The distillery sits just outside St Andrews, overlooking the Eden Estuary. It is the closest distillery to the town center, making it easily accessible for visitors.
  • Visitor Centre: Recently opened, the centre offers:
    • A curated gift shop
    • A state-of-the-art golf simulator
    • The Lookout, a cocktail bar with panoramic views

Types of Tours

Eden Mill Distillery Forager Gin
Eden Mill Distillery Forager Gin
  1. Gin Tasting Experience
    • Guided tasting of Eden Mill’s signature gins
    • Learn about botanicals and distillation methods
    • Includes cocktails and pairing suggestions
  2. Whisky Tasting Experience
    • Explore Eden Mill’s single malt and blended whiskies
    • Insight into mash bills, cask aging, and flavor development
    • Perfect for whisky enthusiasts seeking something new
  3. Combined Gin & Whisky Tour
    • A full-sensory experience covering both spirits
    • Ideal for groups or couples with varied tastes
  4. Immersive Experiences
    • Seasonal events and special masterclasses
    • Opportunities to meet distillers and sample limited releases
Eden Mill Distillery Tulip Glasses
Eden Mill Distillery Tulip Glasses

Booking Information

  • Tours can be booked directly through the Eden Mill website.
  • Options include packages for two (e.g., Gin Tasting Set & Distillery Experience for Two).
  • Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons in St Andrews.

Contact Details

Address: Eden Mill Distillery & Visitor Centre
Eden Campus, Guardbridge, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, KY16 0US
Phone: +44 (0)1334 834038
Website: edenmill.com

Conclusion

Eden Mill Distillery represents the fusion of heritage and innovation in Scottish spirits. From its roots in the Haig family’s 19th-century distilling legacy to its modern-day reputation for creative gins and pioneering whiskies, Eden Mill has carved out a distinctive place in Scotland’s craft scene.

With its new visitor centre, immersive tours, and scenic location near St Andrews, it offers one of the most engaging distillery experiences in the country. Whether you’re a gin lover, whisky enthusiast, or simply curious about Scotland’s evolving distilling culture, Eden Mill is a destination worth exploring.

Best Scotland Guides!

Recent Posts