A day out at Aber Falls Distillery
When you think of the great whisky-producing nations Scotland, Ireland, and America probably come to mind. But what about North Wales? Aber Falls Whisky Distillery is one of seven distyllfa whisgi in Wales and the first in North Wales since the 1900s. It once started life as a slate works back in the 19th century, becoming a margarine works during the First World War, and has now been lovingly restored into the distillery you see today.
If you’re heading to North Wales this summer with a gang and are looking for something fun and a little boozy, then look no further. Whether you’re a group of whisky connoisseurs looking to whet your whistle or it’s a surprise for a whisky-loving dad, then Aber Falls Whisky Distillery is well worth a visit.
The team of master distillers produce about 2,200 litres a day at approximately 68% ABV, which is then reduced to a much more drinkable 40% proof! The whisky is matured in a mixture of bourbon, sherry and red wine casks.
We caught up with Events Manager, Catrin Butler, over whisky cocktails in the bar (it’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it) to find out a little more.
Satisfyingly sustainable
In order to be classified as a Welsh single malt whisky, the entire process from distilling through to aging and even bottling must take place in Wales. The team at Aber Falls use locally sourced barley and even have their own borehole into Aber Falls itself – you can’t get much more local than that!
With the belief that whisky should put in as much as it takes out there’s a real focus on working with Welsh suppliers. Eddie the farmer down the road takes the spent grain to feed his cattle. Waste pot ale is also given to local farms for use as fertilisers.
Take a tour through the stills
Wander the stills and casks in the distillery as part of the tour and learn about everything from production to maturation. You’ll get up close and personal with the process and experience a working distillery. Tours are around an hour and available to book between 10am and 4pm.
Jump in the gin lab
Whisky not really your thing? The team at Aber Falls also distill their own gin and now you can too! With space for 6, you’ll learn all about the different botanicals and walk out with your own personalised 70 centilitre bottle of gin.
Spend a couple of hours gazing out over the beautiful Carneddau mountains, sipping gin and tonics and creating your very own masterpiece.
Know a gin-lover dying to make their own? Find out more and book the experience here.
Stay for a sundowner
If you’ve spent the day Rhaedar Fawr (Aber Falls) why not stop by for a dram on the way home? Just a stone’s throw from the falls and nestled in the village of Abergwyngregyn, the distillery is handily located just off the A55.
For those looking for a sharpener, the cafe downstairs serves delicious coffee and cakes or, for something a little stronger, enjoy a whisky on the terrace. Don’t worry, a bus runs every 20 minutes from nearby Abergwyngregyn so make your way through the menu if you like!
Where to stay
The bustling centre of Menai Bridge is about a 15-minute drive from the distillery and is the perfect spot for big groups of friends looking for a little life with their Anglesey escape. With buzzing bars, beaches and beautiful views over the Menai Strait it’s a great base for discovering everything this beautiful island as to offer.
Here’s where we’d stay…
This grand old house comfortably sleeps 14 and any four-legged friends coming along for the ride. The house is perfectly set up for a week with the gang, not only is every bedroom spacious and comfortable, keeping everyone happy, but there’s also an extra fridge, big kitchen with dishwasher, outdoor seating and log burner!
A barn conversion with the wow factor. Just a stone’s throw from Plas Newydd, Ty Meryl certainly has a certain level of grandeur. With room for 7 guests, the open plan downstairs has been designed with socialising in mind. After a day at the distillery, totter back for a big family feast and a night in front of the log burner.
Please the interiors-lovers amongst you with a stay at this tasteful townhouse slap bang in the middle of Menai Bridge. Suitable for 6 and dogs, Greenfield Terrace sees you sink into pure style. Debrief on the day in the airy open plan kitchen, sneak off for a quiet bath or snatch some sun in the garden.
4. Tal Y Bont Uchaf
For those looking for a short journey home, we’ve got just the spot and it’s perfect for big groups looking to get together.
Tal Y Bont Uchaf is a 5-minute drive from the distillery and is a complex of beautiful, renovated farm buildings. No matter the size of your clan, there’s a base to fit.
- Tal Y Bont Uchaf cottage is a dog-friendly cottage for a couple’s retreat.
- Tal Y Bont farm is ideal for up to 30 guests, complete with hot tub.
- Tal Y Bont Uchaf courtyard, a large bolthole for up to 18, plenty of space to celebrate!
- Tal Y Bont Barns – wood-fired hot tub, fully equipped kitchen and space for 24 and dogs.
- Tal Y Bont Uchaf stables with plenty of room both inside and out, bring your gang of 16 to celebrate!
Discover the magic of Menai here.
