Whisky Event
Spirit of Speyside Festival
The Spirit of Speyside whisky festival, held in May, is made up of hundreds of events held by local partners and members across the Speyside region which features 51 working distilleries and includes the Spirit of Speyside Whisky School and Whisky Awards. Isla Bank House is located at the heart of the Speyside region and within walking distance of several distilleries and public transport hub.
Beyond the Dram: Exploring Lesser-Known Distilleries Near Keith
Intro Explore Independent Speyside Distilleries from Isla Bank House While Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail is famed for household names, visitors staying at Isla Bank House can go beyond the dram to uncover intimate, independent distilleries that offer unique whisky experiences — all just a short drive away. Benromach Distillery – Tradition with a Personal Touch 📍 Location: Forres – approx. 30 minutes from Isla Bank House🕰️ Established: 1898 | Revived by Gordon & MacPhail in 1993 Benromach is a small, family-owned distillery where whisky-making remains hands-on and authentic. Its single malts are known for their balanced Speyside sweetness with a gentle hint of smoke. Why visit Benromach? + Manual distilling methods with traditional equipment + Insightful guided tours with tastings of core expressions + Quiet, welcoming visitor centre experience GlenAllachie Distillery – A Rising Independent Star 📍 Location: Abelour – approx. 45 minutes from Keith🕰️ Re-established: 2017 under whisky icon Billy Walker Known for its robust, sherry-cask-driven whiskies, GlenAllachie has fast become a name to watch in Speyside. Its small-scale, independently owned charm makes it a refreshing stop for serious whisky fans. Why visit GlenAllachie? + Exclusive access to award-winning drams + Educational warehouse and tasting tours + Scenic distillery setting near Ben-Rinnes Personalised Whisky Adventures from Keith The advantage of staying at Isla Bank House is being immersed in whisky country — with none of the crowds. Guests can book custom whisky tours via our trusted local guides (see our Local Adventures page) and create a tailored tasting day complete with transport, distillery visits, and dinner reservations. 💡 Tip: Ask us to arrange a welcome dram for when you arrive!