NB Distillery

The distillery sits just outside Dunbar, that grey little coastal town where you half expect the wind to knock you sideways. NB Distillery is the sort of place that makes you realise Scottish whisky production isn't all grand Highland estates and centuries of tradition - sometimes it's a proper working operation doing something genuinely interesting with local grain and know-how.

What you're looking at is craft distilling on a human scale. The whole operation is visible, which means you can actually see how spirit moves from grain to bottle rather than trudging through a visitor centre gift shop for two hours. It's hands-on and honest in a way the bigger distilleries have forgotten.

This appeals most to serious whisky types and anyone who'd rather watch actual production than listen to a recorded spiel. You'll want at least ninety minutes if they're doing tours - longer if you're the sort to ask detailed questions about fermentation rates. Families with restless kids might find it a bit technical and stationary for their needs.

Since it's on the coast near Dunbar, it slots well into a wider East Lothian jaunt. Belhaven Bay Caravan Park sits five miles away, making it a manageable evening visit if you're staying locally. The whole area's got decent walking and genuine seaside roughness - not the manicured sort. Worth ringing ahead to confirm opening times and whether tours are running that day. Dunbar itself is worth an hour for lunch and the harbour.