Pro Tips - Factory Tour Planning

Planning a factory tour?  Here are some things to consider to make your trip successful.

A very, very sad J outside the closed Talisker Distillery - Carbost, Isle of Skye, UK

• Schedule tour in advance -  
• Even if you don't have to book the tour in advance or it is a self guided tour - I call or email beforehand to make sure the factory is open and in production the day I am planning to go.  We failed to do this on our trip to Scotland and didn't realize that Talisker Distillery was closed Sundays during the off season.  We had a very sad J on our hands. 
• Most tours have limited numbers of slots.  
• Some tours require that you register each individual person by name - some secure facilities require prior security screening
• Its often easier to pay in advance
• Ask about clothing guidelines. I will delve into greater depth on this topic in a following post but flat or low-heeled closed toe shoes are a minimum requirement.
• Ask ahead if you can take pictures and/or video - that way you know if you should bring your fancy camera or leave it at home.
• Find out if there are any age or health restrictions.
• Many tours have age or height restrictions.  In general children must be over 13 years but make sure to check in advance.
• Tour routes can encompass large production areas with stair climbing, walking in noisy areas, and on uneven surfaces.  You will need to be able to walk long distances unassisted by canes, wheelchairs or walkers. 
• Most tours cannot accommodate oxygen or any flammable materials in production areas.
• Show up early - Tours start at the specified time.  Leave yourself ample time to find parking and check in.
• Bring a valid photo ID - some secure facilities require ID
• No backpacks, bags or large purses  

  Do you have any Pro Tips to share?
 

A much happier J at the Aberlour Distillery - Banffshire, UK



We finally got J on a Scotch tour and tasting at Aberlour Distillery - Banffshire, UK