Did You Know There are 152 active Scotch Whisky Distilleries Today?

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 at 15:08

If you’re heading to Scotland, chances are you’ll want to visit one or more Scotch whisky distilleries. But how many are there, really? Did you know Scotland now boasts no fewer than 152 active distilleries?

This list of 152 makers runs from iconic names to fresh-faced artisans. One thing’s certain: there are a lot of them!

A record number of distilleries

According to the Scotch Whisky Association, there are currently 152 working distilleries in Scotland: the highest number in decades. That’s not just good news for whisky lovers; it’s a sign the tradition is very much alive.

What makes this figure even more remarkable is the sector’s diversity. Giants with centuries of history like Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Lagavulin share the stage with young, independent distilleries experimenting with new flavors, casks, and techniques.

Together, they form a vibrant community that keeps evolving. You’ll sometimes see production capacity dialed back here and there, but there’s no doubt about it: the Scotch whisky industry is thriving.

Five regions, endless flavors

The 152 distilleries are spread across Scotland’s five iconic whisky regions: Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, Islay, and Campbeltown. Each area has its own style and character, though it’s not always the case a whisky fits in a certain profile.

Speyside shines with fruit-forward, honeyed single malts.
Islay is famed for smoky, peaty whiskies that transport you straight to the coast.
The Highlands and Lowlands offer elegance and balance.
Campbeltown, once a whisky capital with dozens of distilleries, now has only a handful — but they produce wonderfully distinctive drams.

Together, they form the foundation of what we know as Scotch whisky.

More than a glass full of history

Scotland’s whisky industry is not only cultural heritage; it’s also a powerhouse for the economy. In 2022, it contributed over seven billion pounds to the UK economy. It’s easy to forget just how many jobs are tied to whisky.

Finally, we’re curious: how many Scotch whisky distilleries have you visited in your life? Share your number in the comments below.