About North Point Distillery
North Point Distillery at John o'Groats is Scotland's northernmost rum distillery — and one of very few rum distilleries in the country at all. Situated right at the iconic northeastern tip of mainland Britain, it produces the Pentland Firth Rum range using imported raw cane spirit that is then distilled, blended and matured in the far north of Scotland. The bracing northerly climate and the drama of the Pentland Firth contribute to the rum's character. The distillery is part of the John o'Groats visitor development that has transformed this formerly rather tired tourist spot into a more interesting destination. A perfect last (or first) stop on the NC500.
Highlights
Rum distillery at John o'Groats
Pentland Firth Rum and other expressions
Visitor centre at end of the NC500
Small-batch artisan production
Combined with John o'Groats visitor experience
🚐 Motorhome Tip
Park in the large John o'Groats car park (overnight tolerated, service point seasonal). Walk to the distillery in the visitor village. Combine with the famous signpost photographs, a pint at the Inn, and the short drive to Duncansby Head sea stacks (much better scenery). The distillery shop is a good souvenir stop.
Distillery Details
Spirit Name
Pentland Firth Rum
🥃
Tours: Tours are available — booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially in summer. See
official website for latest tour times and prices.
🚗 Drink Driving: Always designate a driver or use a taxi. NC500 roads are remote and winding — drink driving is dangerous and illegal. Most distilleries offer non-alcoholic tasting options and miniature bottles to take away for later.
Getting There
At John o'Groats visitor complex on the A99. 16 miles east of Thurso, 20 miles north of Wick. Cannot be missed.
Best Time to Visit
Year round though reduced winter hours. Summer is busiest but the visitor experience is best May–September.
Nearby Attractions
