A Fife whisky distillery has brought together two of Scotland’s most celebrated traditions with the launch of what is believed to be the country’s first putting green at a working distillery.
Kingsbarns Distillery, located just outside St Andrews in the East Neuk of Fife, has introduced a six-hole putting green, offering visitors the chance to pair a dram with a round of golf in one uniquely Scottish setting.
Founded in 2009 by former local golf caddie Douglas Clement, Kingsbarns has always had strong ties to the sport. The addition of the putting green builds on that heritage, further embedding the distillery within one of the world’s most iconic golfing landscapes.
The new attraction has been developed by Wemyss Family Spirits, the family-owned company behind Kingsbarns, and complements its golf-inspired whisky portfolio. This includes the sold-out Caddie’s Dream release and the more recent 19th Hole expression, created in collaboration with The Dunvegan Hotel in St Andrews.
William Wemyss, Founder and 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.
“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.”
Visitors can incorporate the putting green into a distillery tour and tasting experience, while those stopping by the café are also encouraged to take part. The aim is to create an accessible and relaxed offering that appeals to golfers, whisky enthusiasts and tourists alike.
As whisky tourism becomes increasingly competitive on a global stage, Wemyss believes experiences rooted in place and authenticity are key. “We believe this offers something genuinely different,” he added.
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Kingsbarns has built a reputation for producing elegant Lowland single malts, characterised by light, fruity and floral notes, using locally grown barley and carefully selected casks.
To mark the launch, the distillery will host a special competition throughout August. Distillery Manager Peter Holroyd will set a benchmark score on the course, with visitors invited to try and beat it. Those who succeed will be entered into a prize draw to win the full Kingsbarns core range: Doocot, Balcomie and Coaltown.
By combining whisky tourism with a hands-on golfing experience, Kingsbarns Distillery is offering visitors a distinctive new way to engage with two of Scotland’s defining passions in a single visit.
