THE HOME OF ORKNEY BEER
The Orkney Brewery and Visitor Centre is located in the West Mainland, and housed in the former schoolhouse in Quoyloo, just one mile from the worldfamous Stone Age village of Skara Brae. It is owned and run by Orcadian Norman Sinclair, whose family came from Quoyloo. In fact, Norman’s father and grandfather attended the very same school that now houses the brewery.
As one of the oldest independent breweries in Scotland, Orkney Brewery creates traditional craft-brewed ales.
Their passion, care and undivided attention to each stage of the brewing process ensures that the beer reaches you in perfect condition.
The brewery’s famous brands include the flagship Dark Island, Red Macgregor, Northern Light and Skull Splitter, all produced here, and in demand throughout Scotland and internationally.
Winner of many awards, the brewery has seen its Red Macgregor crowned Champion Bitter of Britain.
Dark Island Reserve is Scotland’s original whisky ale. This rich, strong, Orcadian ale is matured in fine malt whisky casks for a truly extraordinary experience. It has been named not only Europe’s Best Strong Dark Ale, but also the World’s Best Dark Strong Ale, and attracted three more Great Taste Awards.
The Orkney Brewery Visitor Centre offers those from near and far the chance to visit the brewery, and tour the facility. To see the processes, experience the sounds, sights and rich smells of brewing is a treat, all before sampling the wonderful end result at your very own tasting session.
The Tasting Hall café, situated in the superbly refurbished old school, caters lunches, teas and coffees alongside homebakes, and a wellstocked bar.
So why not tempt yourself with the full range of brewery products to accompany your locally sourced lunch menu.
A selection of local gins and whiskies are also on offer for the discerning connoisseur, and while you dine, you can browse the historic memorabilia that adorns the walls and displays.
The whole family is welcome at The Orkney Brewery — children can enjoy the Corncrake Trail on the tour, dress up in Victorian school uniform, and choose from the children’s menu in the Tasting Hall.
The Brewery Shop is a delight to explore, offering the full range of beers and some exclusives, plus a variety of brewery merchandise to mark your visit with the perfect gift or souvenir to take away.
Local arts, crafts, jewellery and produce are also available, making the entire experience a genuine taste of Orkney.