A FIFE whisky distillery has unveiled what is believed to be the first putting green at a Scottish distillery, bringing together two of the country’s most beloved traditions in a uniquely Scottish experience.
Kingsbarns Distillery, just outside St Andrews in the East Neuk of Fife, was founded by local golf caddie Douglas Clement back in 2009. From day one, golf has been woven into the very fabric of the distillery, and this new putting green is the perfect way to celebrate this tangible connection to the sport. It also cements Kingsbarns place within one of Scotland’s most celebrated sporting and cultural landscapes.
Created by Wemyss Family Spirits, the family-owned business behind the distillery, the attraction adds a new dimension to an established golf-inspired whisky collection, which includes the sold-out Caddie’s Dream release and the recent 19th Hole expression, created in collaboration with The Dunvegan Hotel – one of the world’s most famous 19th holes.
William Wemyss, chairman of Wemyss Family Spirits, said: “Golf and whisky have always felt naturally connected, and particularly so in a place like St Andrews where both are woven into the very identity of the area.”
Visitors can now combine a distillery tour and whisky tasting with time on the green and even those stopping by simply to enjoy the distillery’s café are encouraged to step outside and take a putt.
William added: “We believed there was an opportunity to create something visitors would genuinely remember and which could only really exist in this part of Scotland. The idea of enjoying a dram at a working distillery and then stepping onto a green overlooking the St Andrews coastline felt like a natural and fitting way to bring those two worlds together.
“As whisky tourism becomes more competitive internationally, experiences that feel authentic and distinctive become increasingly important. We believe this offers something genuinely different.”
To celebrate the opening of the distillery, Kingsbarns will be running a special competition for visitors over the month of August. Distillery Manager Peter Holroyd will be taking to the course to set a score, with visitors invited to try and beat it. Anyone who does is entered into a prize draw to win the entire core range of Kingsbarns whiskies (Doocot, Balcomie & Coaltown).
For details on the range of visitor experiences at
