Whisky Event
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Speyside Whisky Festival
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has established itself as a premier event for whisky enthusiasts around the world. With an extensive program, often made up of over 500 whisky-inspired events, it delivers remarkable experience for both beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Since its launch in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has evolved into a significant gathering, attracting visitors from far and wide who share a passion for Scotland's national drink. Click here for a huge list of events across Speyside between 1st and 6th of May
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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.
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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!
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Whisky Meets Theatre at The Crystal Dram – A Speyside Adventure
Experience The Crystal Dram – Speyside’s Most Unique Whisky Event If you’re visiting Keith, Moray or staying at Isla Bank House, don’t miss one of Speyside’s most unusual whisky events: The Crystal Dram, taking place on May 27 and 28, 2025, at the Craigellachie Hotel. This immersive whisky experience combines puzzle-solving, theatrical performance, and premium drams in a beautifully restored historic venue. Led by the eccentric Professor Deacon Mandrake PhD, guests will face a series of light-hearted but challenging games. Each task earns you a coveted Crystal Dram, which you’ll trade in for mystery whiskies during a guided tasting at the hotel’s legendary Quaich Bar. Why Attend The Crystal Dram? ✔️ Unique, interactive whisky tasting near Keith ✔️ Small group size (max 8 people) for an intimate experience ✔️ Hosted at one of Speyside’s most iconic whisky bars ✔️ Ideal for whisky lovers, couples, and visitors looking for an unforgettable evening Plan Your Stay with Isla Bank House Located just 30 minutes from Craigellachie, Isla Bank House in Keith offers a luxurious and historic base for exploring Speyside whisky country. After your adventure, return to the peace and comfort of our Victorian guesthouse and reflect on your drams of the day. 🛏️ Learn more about our accommodation and book your stay here.🎟️ Book tickets for The Crystal Dram at moray.events.
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Taste of Summer – Moray Speyside (June 1–16, 2025)
Celebrate the flavours of Scotland’s larder at Taste of Summer, Moray Speyside’s premier food and drink festival. From artisan markets and pop-up chef dinners to exclusive distillery tours and tasting menus, this event brings together the region’s finest producers in a feast for the senses. Enjoy fresh seafood from the Moray Firth, local venison, hand-crafted cheeses, and the world-famous Speyside whisky—all in the most scenic corners of the Highlands. Base yourself at Isla Bank House in Keith to immerse yourself in this culinary journey. The historic manor offers stylish, spacious rooms and refined hospitality, perfectly complementing the gourmet experiences of the festival. With several events happening nearby—such as the Keith Farmers Market and Strathisla Distillery tastings—you’re ideally placed to sip, savour, and relax.
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Keith Music Festival (Second Weekend of June 2025)
Experience the soulful sounds of traditional Scotland at the Keith Music Festival, one of the region’s most cherished cultural gatherings. Fiddlers, pipers, singers, and dancers descend on Keith for a weekend of ceilidhs, concerts, and community joy. Whether you're toe-tapping to reels or joining a late-night session in a local pub, this is a celebration of music, heritage, and Highland hospitality. Located in the heart of Keith, Isla Bank House is just minutes from the festival’s main venues. Wake up to the sound of birdsong, not bagpipes—until you're ready to dive in! After a lively evening, retreat to the elegant comfort of your suite or enjoy a nightcap in the drawing room.