Deer Island Distillery

Discovering the Spirit of the Isle of Jura
A Visit to Deer Island Distillers 🦌🥃


While the Isle of Jura is world-renowned for its legendary whisky, there is a new, spirited story unfolding on its shores. If you’re a fan of unique craft spirits, you simply have to hear about Deer Island Distillers.

Founded by Jura locals Michael and Charlotte in 2019, this small-batch producer is shaking things up by bringing rum production to an island famous for its peat and malt. The name "Jura" itself is derived from the Old Norse Dyrøy, meaning "Deer Island"—a nod to the fact that the island is home to roughly 5,000 red deer compared to just 250 human residents.

A Passion Project Born on the Island

Deer Island Distillers is a true labour of love. It all began during a simple walk on the beach when Michael, a lifelong islander, expressed a dream of making rum. With Charlotte’s business expertise and a team of close friends, they turned that vision into reality. Their mission is deeply rooted in the community: creating sustainable jobs, supporting the island economy, and celebrating the unique, wild spirit of Jura.

Why It’s Special

Unlike the historic, large-scale whisky distilleries that dominate the landscape, Deer Island offers an intimate look at modern island entrepreneurship. They don't just make spiced rum; they are innovative with their process, even using byproducts from their production to create delicious rum-infused marmalade and raisins!

Planning Your Visit

Visiting this "wee" distillery is an adventure in itself, as it requires a ferry trip to reach the rugged beauty of Jura. You can find them at:

  • Location: Unit 3, The Pier Garage, Craighouse, Isle of Jura, PA60 7XS.

  • ///loaf.marsh.formed

  • Summer 2026 Opening Hours:

    • Monday: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm

    • Thursday: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm

    • Friday: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm

    • (Other days by arrangement—reach out to them at team@deerisland.co.uk if you are planning a trip!)

If you can’t make it to the distillery itself, keep an eye out for them at the Antlers Bakehouse and Bar in Craighouse, or catch them at various events throughout Argyll and Scotland during the winter months.

Have you ever explored the smaller, independent distilleries off the beaten path? Let me know in the comments!

#DistilleriesOfScotland #IsleOfJura #DeerIslandDistillers #ScottishCraftRum #IslandLife #ExploreScotland #MotorhomeTouring #CraftSpirits

Since you are a content creator for Caravan Radio and focus on motorhome touring, would you like me to include some tips on the logistics of getting a motorhome to the Isle of Jura for a future post?

Taking a motorhome to the Isle of Jura is an adventure that requires careful planning, as the island is rugged, remote, and significantly less equipped for large vehicles than the mainland or larger islands like Mull.

1. The Route: Via Islay

There is no direct ferry for vehicles from the mainland to Jura. You must first take the CalMac ferry from Kennacraig to Port Askaig on Islay. From Port Askaig, you then take the short "wee ferry" across the Sound of Jura to Feolin on the island itself.

2. "Wee Ferry" Logistics (Port Askaig to Feolin)

  • Capacity: The ferry is small. If your motorhome is greater than 6m in length, it is strongly recommended that you contact the Jura ferry office (+44 1496 840681) in advance to confirm your vehicle can be accommodated.

  • Booking: You generally do not need to book the standard daytime crossings (which run roughly every hour), but it is essential to check their schedule and status before you arrive.

  • Flexibility: Be prepared for potential delays due to weather or technical issues, which are common in these waters.

3. Road Suitability

Jura is known for its single-track road (the A846) which runs along the east side of the island.

  • Size Matters: The road is narrow and winding. While it is technically possible to drive a motorhome, many locals and experienced island travelers advise caution. Passing places are essential, and large vehicles can struggle or cause significant congestion for locals.

  • Congestion: The island is not designed for heavy motorhome traffic. Always pull into passing places to let locals go by and never block traffic.

4. Where to Stay

Crucial Note: Jura has very limited formal facilities for motorhomes.

  • Limited Infrastructure: There are no large-scale commercial campsites with full motorhome hookups like you might find on the mainland.

  • The Jura Hotel: They offer a small camping field in front of the hotel in Craighouse (open April–September). It is always best to book your pitch in advance, especially during the busy summer season.

  • Wild Camping: While Scotland has "Right to Roam" laws, they do not apply to motorized vehicles. Wild camping in a motorhome is generally discouraged unless you have specific permission from a landowner. Always aim for an established site to respect the local community and environment.

5. Pro-Tip for Your Audience

Given the logistical challenges, many motorhome owners choose to park their motorhome securely on Islay (for example, at Port Mòr or the Port Ellen Filling Station area) and take the passenger ferry (or the small ferry as a foot passenger) to Jura for a day trip or an overnight stay in local B&B/Hotel accommodation. This saves the stress of maneuvering a large vehicle on narrow roads and the uncertainty of finding a suitable spot to park overnight.

“Jura is a place of wild, untamed beauty, but it is not a destination for the unprepared. If you choose to bring your motorhome, remember: you are a guest in a remote community. Research the ferry size limits, book your camping spot ahead of time, and always prioritize local traffic on the single-track roads. If in doubt, consider an Islay-based ‘base camp’ and explore Jura by bike or as a foot passenger!”

 Website https://deerisland.co.uk/

Group Google Map:  https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing

Linktree⬅️ https://linktr.ee/johnnyburr


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