Although Glenkinchie is one of Scotland’s most established lowland malt whiskies and one of the closest distilleries to Edinburgh, the site historically posed challenges for visitors, particularly around arrival, orientation, and overall experience. The Landscape Masterplan and garden design sought to open-up the distillery grounds, celebrate the site’s Victorian architecture, and echo the gentle lowland character of East Lothian. An informal Scottish garden was created, with varied planting heights, species-rich borders, and accessible transitions that guide visitors through a multi level sensory landscape, with homage to cottage garden design, but with an entirely modern sensibility.

Sustainability was a core ambition from the outset of the project. The client and design team seized the opportunity to reduce environmental impact, reuse materials, and restore the site’s biodiversity. Red brick salvaged from demolished buildings and timbers from distillery washbacks were repurposed, through collaboration with local fabricators, into bespoke furniture, walls, and detailing throughout the landscape. The result is a garden that truly celebrates the Distillery’s heritage and history. The formerly species poor grounds have been reimagined as a biodiverse habitat that reflects the ecology of East Lothian and supports local wildlife, including the working beehives now thriving within the gardens.

Like a single malt whisky, a garden only improves with age. The Glenkinchie Distillery Garden is expected to continue maturing, enriching biodiversity, delighting visitors, and serving as a valued asset for the local community for years to come.