Bucketfuls of fun (Glenfiddich)
The Mystery Visitor gets all artistic at Glenfiddich
I made at least one big mistake when visiting the Glenfiddich visitor centre. Against my better judgement, I didn’t sign up for their premium Connoisseur’s Tour. I convinced myself I didn’t have time (really I was just being mean) and then my friend went and raved about it. So, secondhand, I can recommend the £12 experience.
But there’s still plenty to see at this Speyside distillery, the originator of the modern tour business, and home to the world’s best-selling single malt. The standard tour is free, but would still represent excellent value if they charged.
Naturally, it’s popular – and deservedly so. It was like a United Nations convention round the site on the day of my visit but this didn’t faze the professional guides. There are native-speaking (or, at least, exceptionally fluent) escorts for every language under the sun, so your tour ismade in the company of a real person instead of a Sony Walkman.
The car park at the distillery has recently been resurfaced. You might not think this matters, but it makes a very professional initial impression and, if like me, you had nearly lost an axle on the previously somewhat agricultural surface it comes as a welcome improvement!
The next impression is something of a shock. Right by the car park entrance there is an art gallery. Not just any old art gallery, you should understand, full of tourist orientated tat.
No misty Highland glens and stags at bay here, but a full-on modern art gallery, packed with con.....
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By Dominic Roskrow
Section : Mystery Visitor
Page number : 42
