Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow Including Admissions

If you’re visiting Glasgow and want to explore two iconic Scottish treasures in a single day, the Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow offers an impressive blend of natural beauty and whisky heritage. Priced at $144.90 per person, this 8-hour tour is designed for small groups—capped at 16 guests—to ensure a more personalized experience. It includes admissions to two distilleries, a scenic drive, a pub lunch in the charming village of Balloch, and a boat cruise on Loch Lomond. The tour departs from Buchanan Bus Station at 9:45 am and returns around 5 pm, making it a manageable yet memorable day out.

While it may not include meals or additional costs, the comprehensive itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Loch Lomond’s stunning scenery and Scottish whisky making process make this tour stand out. It suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized adventure, history, and scenic moments—and who are okay with visiting a few places in one day.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 16 guests ensures personalized attention.
• Includes entrance fees and tastings at Glengoyne Distillery and Clydeside Distillery.
• Visits Loch Lomond, with a scenic boat cruise and walks along the shore.
• Tour departs from Glasgow at 9:45 am and finishes around 5 pm.
• Convenient transport in a Mercedes mini-coach with an expert English-speaking guide.
• Lunch in Balloch at a local pub, with free time for sightseeing or walking.

Starting at Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station for a Scenic Escape

The tour kicks off from Buchanan Bus Station, located on Killermont Street. The pick-up is straightforward, and the top-range Mercedes mini-coach provides comfortable seating for the approximately 8-hour trip. The vehicle features grab handles and non-slip steps, but it’s worth noting that wheelchair access is limited—the bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, though storage for a folding wheelchair is available. The tour is set up for most travelers, with most participants aged 5 and above.

Early arrivals are encouraged since check-in closes 15 minutes before departure, ensuring punctuality. The tour’s small-group limit of 16 travelers means you get plenty of space and attention from your guide, an experience appreciated by previous visitors.

Exploring Glengoyne Distillery: Whisky History and Tasting

The first stop is Glengoyne Distillery, where admission is included in the tour price. It features a guided tour lasting about one hour, during which you learn how glorious Highland water transforms into whisky. During the Silent Season from June 25th to August 1st, 2025, the production site is not visible, but visitors can still explore the historic grounds, the old cooperage, No 1 Warehouse, and enjoy a whisky tasting.

The tasting includes two drams of whisky, providing a genuine flavor of Scottish craftsmanship. The informative guides explain the whisky-making process with a mix of humor and expertise, making the experience both fun and educational. The distillery visit is highly praised for its well-organized nature and the storytelling skills of the guides.

Charming Drive and Lunch in Balloch: The Gateway to Loch Lomond

Next, the tour takes a 45-minute drive through the Scottish countryside to Balloch, a picturesque village known as the gateway to Loch Lomond. Here, you have about an hour and a half for a pub lunch, giving you a taste of local fare and a chance to relax amid scenic surroundings.

Balloch also offers an opportunity to stretch your legs before heading to Loch Lomond’s shores. A walk to the loch’s edge is highly recommended, as previous visitors highlight the breathtaking views and the peaceful atmosphere. This stop balances the journey with delicious food and photo opportunities, setting the stage for the scenic part of the tour.

Admiring Loch Lomond’s Beauty and Taking a Boat Cruise

Following lunch, the tour continues with a boat cruise on Loch Lomond, lasting about one hour and a half. This is a highlight for many, as the boat offers spectacular views of the loch’s rolling hills and tranquil waters. The cruise provides a different perspective from land and allows ample time for taking photos or simply enjoying the serene landscape.

This scenic cruise is a relaxed, gentle experience, perfect for those who love nature and wide-open vistas. The boat is part of the overall experience, adding a touch of adventure to the day, and is included in the tour price.

Visiting Clydeside Distillery: Inside Glasgow’s River Waterfront

The final stop is Clydeside Distillery, located in Glasgow’s Queens Dock, with admission included and a guided tour lasting about one hour and a half. This distillery stands out for its unique riverside setting, offering views of the River Clyde.

Here, you’ll learn how whisky is crafted, from raw ingredients to distillation, and enjoy a tasting session at the end. The friendly staff and informative guides earn praise for making the process accessible and engaging. The views of the river also give an added scenic element to the visit, connecting the city’s industrial past with its modern whisky scene.

Expert Guides and Comfortable Transportation

Throughout the tour, an English-speaking driver-guide shares stories, insights, and humor. The guides are highly rated for their knowledge and caring attitude, making the experience enjoyable and informative. One guide, for example, is noted for his British sense of humor and passion for whisky, which adds personality to the trip.

All transport is provided in a Mercedes mini-coach, with regular breaks for restroom use. While the vehicle isn’t wheelchair accessible, storage for folding mobility aids is available, and most travelers can participate comfortably.

Tour Duration, Pacing, and Group Size

The 8-hour tour is paced to include all stops without feeling rushed. The itinerary is carefully planned, with timing for each activity and meal breaks. The small group size enhances interaction with the guide and minimizes crowds, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for weather changes, as outdoor walks and scenic views are integral to the experience. The tour ends back at Buchanan Bus Station around 5 pm, giving plenty of time for evening plans.

Tour Limitations and Considerations

One point to consider is that admission to Glengoyne Distillery is affected during its Silent Season from June 25th to August 1st, 2025. During this period, visitors cannot see the production site but can still explore the historic grounds and enjoy tastings.

Also, no meals or refreshments are included aside from the lunch stop in Balloch, so travelers should budget for additional food or drinks if desired. The bus is not suitable for wheelchair users who cannot manage stairs, although space for storage exists. Most travelers will find the tour accessible and enjoyable, especially those interested in whisky, scenic landscapes, and a small-group experience.

Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow: A Well-Rounded Day Trip

This tour provides a balanced mix of scenic beauty, whisky knowledge, and local culture, all within a comfortable and manageable day. The admissions and tastings at both distilleries highlight Scotland’s rich whisky tradition, while the boat cruise on Loch Lomond captures the essence of Scotland’s landscape.

It’s especially suited for those who value personalized guides, small-group intimacy, and a well-organized itinerary. The cost offers good value considering the included activities, tastings, and transport, making it an appealing choice for visitors eager to experience Scotland’s natural and cultural highlights without an overly packed schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from Buchanan Bus Station on Killermont Street in Glasgow at 9:45 am and returns to the same location around 5 pm.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking can be difficult in the city center, so using public transportation is recommended for ease and convenience.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure, so arriving early ensures a smooth start.

Can I bring luggage?
You may carry up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage, such as a carry-on suitcase and a small bag for personal items.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers aged 5 and above can participate, but children under 18 are not permitted.

Are meals included?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, but a lunch stop is scheduled in Balloch where you can purchase food.

What is the vehicle like?
The tour is conducted in a Mercedes mini-coach with non-slip steps and grab handles for safety.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
The bus is not wheelchair accessible, but storage for folding wheelchairs is available.

Are restrooms available during the tour?
There are no restrooms onboard, but regular breaks are scheduled.

How is the guide?
Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor, making the experience both fun and educational.

This Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow offers a satisfying slice of Scottish scenery and culture, well worth the full day it takes to enjoy fully.