CLUBHOUSE SURE TO BE A DRAM FINE VENUE FOR THE DORNOCH WHISKY FESTIVAL

ROYAL Dornoch’s highly acclaimed new clubhouse was always designed with the community in mind.

Various local groups have made it their base for regular meetings since the opening in December.

And now the golf club is delighted to support the Dornoch Whisky Festival by hosting the flagship Grand Tasting Event.

The annual gathering of dedicated dram enthusiasts and others keen to find out more about Scotland’s national drink runs from October 23-25.

Now in its 11th year, the much-loved festival is entering a bold new era with a new brand identity and website, taking advantage of the spectacular clubhouse overlooking the ancient links to provide a five-star venue which will welcome whisky lovers for an unforgettable experience featuring exceptional whisky, a wide range of exhibitors, masterclasses, stories and the warm Highland hospitality that has become synonymous with the Dornoch Whisky Festival.

Festival organisers are excited to be bringing the Grand Tasting to Royal Dornoch, creating a fresh experience for returning festival-goers while retaining the atmosphere and spirit that has made the event a firm favourite with whisky enthusiasts from across the UK and around the world.

General manager Neil Hampton said: “We are delighted to host the next exciting chapter in the story of the Dornoch Whisky Festival, which continues to go from strength to strength.

“Much like our golf courses, there is no shortage of fine whisky distilleries in the Highlands to sample and enjoy.

“We look forward to welcoming The Dornoch Whisky Festival to the clubhouse, as the focal point for an event which continues to bring together whisky lovers for a weekend celebrating great whisky, the people behind the drams and the unique community that surrounds it.”

The clubhouse is hosting a range of events, including golf in the shape of the David Urquhart Memorial Trophy on Sunday, October 25, which has a waiting list.

On the Friday, a Blind Gin and Whisky Tasting is sold out but tickets are still available for the Saturday Whisky Bingo evening.

On the Saturday, there are morning and afternoon Grand Tastings providing a rare opportunity to sample 24 of the country’s finest brands under one roof. The ticket price is just £35.

From there, weekend packages can be created by booking events taking place at various venues in the town

“We’re incredibly excited about what 2026 will bring,” said the festival team. “The festival has always been about great whisky, great people and bringing the whisky community together in Dornoch.

“Our new identity and new Grand Tasting venue allow us to build on that heritage while taking the festival into an exciting new era.

“Given the stunning setting, world-class whisky and welcoming atmosphere, the 2026 Festival promises to be a weekend not to be missed.”

Tickets are now on sale and for further information on this month’s event visit: dornochwhiskyfestival.com.