Our History

We invite you to experience all we have to offer, including a deck perfect for drinking and dining with spectacular views of the river Spey…. or relaxing in our wood burning sauna under the trees. We look forward to welcoming you……

About The Mash Tun

Formerly known as "The Station Bar" the building was originally constructed in 1896 by James Campbell, a sea captain, who instructed a marine architect to design the building in the shape of a small ship.

A pledge contained in the title deeds, made in 1963 by the owner at the time states that since Dr Beeching closed the railway in Aberlour then a name change was appropriate - but that if ever a train should pull up at the station again then the pub will revert to "The Station Bar".

The current name comes from the whisky and brewing industry and is the large vessel or vat in which the malted barley is mixed with water and yeast.

Commonly these vessels are anywhere up to eight metres in diameter and up to six metres deep. In practice there are large stirrers that are mechanically driven inside a mash tun.

The local area

We can advise guests on how to book fishing on the River Spey or shooting on the nearby estates. Storage for rods, cycles etc is available.

The Speyside Way, a popular walking and cycling route is only a few moments away.

Around the local area you will find the world renowned Walkers Shortbread bakery, as well as the Aberlour Distillery, both well worth a visit. Many of the local distilleries have visitors centres and shops and offer tours where you can sample some of Scotlands finest whisky. For the more adventurous among you, there is plenty of sport to be had, such as Clay Pigeon Shooting, horse back riding and canoeing, as well as skiing and snowboarding on the cairngorms.

For those looking to take a more gentle meander, there is plenty of sight seeing to be had, visit the Craigllachie Bridge, constructed in 1814 or take a visit to Knockando Woolmill. No visit to Scotland would be complete without a stop off at a castle, and there are plenty around to visit, Ballindalloch Castle from the sixteenth century is certainly a sight to behold.

Don't forget to take a walk around Aberlour as the streets are adorned with local cafes, bakeries, arts, crafts and gift shops.

Under new ownership 2022

The Mash Tun was bought in 2022 by Ron Morrison and Mitchell Orchant and is operated by their company C.Gars Ltd.

The premises have been completely refurbished to the highest standards. The restaurant menus have been revamped and we have a bigger and better whisky selection than ever!

C.Gars Ltd owns and operates specialist whisky and cigar shops across the UK as well as Puffin Rooms in Edinburgh and Liverpool.

Here is what our guests think

Scotch Treat

Recently retired, visiting Scotch whiskey country we discovered this intimate retreat. The setting is beautiful in the bucolic Scottish countryside. The staff was attentive and accommodating. The food was outstanding. I highly recommend this one of a kind location experience.

September 2023

Perfect Night

This place is a gem. We had a wonderful evening enjoying our own selfmade whiskey tasting. Very friendly staff and as far as we heard perfect food as well. If you stay or travel trough - don't miss the Mash Tun 👍🏻

June 2023

Hidden away but a gem

Just on the side of the river is this gem, hidden away from the Main Street serving a 1st class evening meal & an even better breakfast, take a walk up to the main road, turn right & there’s Aberlour distillery, turn left for 10 minutes & you’ve got Walkers biscuits, a great find.

March 2023

Amazing place, centrally located in whisky country!

The staff and place is amazing. Food in restaurant (both breakfast and dinner) was excellent and the staff looked after everything we could imagine. British Airways lost our luggage and they even offered to do our laundry!!! We will definitely stay here again as we loved the experience! All staff were incredible, but Sharon the manager was so friendly and attentive.

December 2022

THIS IS A GEM

The dinner was exceptional (make sure you book) the breakfast was great and the hotels setting very good. The bar has a wonderful selection of whiskies - we had a great evening

Chris, South Africa

SPEYSIDE IN A MASH TUN

Stayed 3 nights at this fantastic pub/B&B/restaurant together with two friends. Central place to visit most of Speyside and just a great place with an awesome atmosphere.

May 2019

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