Plans have been put forward to convert a former A-listed walled garden on a historic estate into a new whisky distillery near Bannockburn, with ties to Robert Burns and Winston Churchill. The sustainable food and drink specialists, Organic Architects, have submitted a planning application to Stirling Council for the development at Auchenbowie, near Bannockburn. The proposed distillery would be located within the abandoned old walled garden of the A-listed Auchenbowie House, which has a rich history including hosting Robert Burns in 1787 and serving as a writing retreat for Winston Churchill during his time as a guest.
The project aims to have a positive impact on the local community, with a multi-million pound investment expected to create 15 direct jobs in the area and stimulate additional employment opportunities through local supply chains. The architects envision a blend of traditional and modern architecture, along with the inclusion of a new organically themed garden as part of the distillery complex. Bari Reid, director at Organic Architects, highlighted the potential to rejuvenate the site and preserve it for future generations by repurposing the area, which has been neglected for the past five decades.
The proposed plans include the construction of new buildings that harmonize with the Victorian greenhouses within the walled garden. Additionally, a formal garden is set to cultivate local botanicals for the production of spirits, with a central glass house that will offer views of a water garden acting as a cooling pond for the distillery. The developers emphasised that central Scotland has a rich history of whisky production, and these plans aim to bring distilling back to an area that was once a prominent hub for Scotch whisky.
Construction is slated to commence later in 2025, with an anticipated completion date in 2026, signalling the revival of a historic site with a promising future in whisky production.
In summary, the transformation of the derelict walled garden at Auchenbowie Estate into a whisky distillery presents a compelling opportunity to honour the heritage of the area while fostering economic growth and job creation in the community. The blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, coupled with a focus on sustainability and local production, reflects a commitment to preserving the legacy of the estate while embracing innovation in the spirits industry.