Arrival of copper stills marks ‘defining moment’ in renovation of 19th-century Castletown Mill turned whisky distillery

The transformation of the historic 19th-century Castletown Mill into a “world-class” whisky distillery reached a new milestone this week, with the arrival of its copper stills.

The stills’ installation signifies a key moment for the carefully renovated mill building, which is being repurposed into a whisky distillery by Dunnet Bay Distillers.

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The renovation of the mill, which is situated just outside Castletown and near the Castle of Mey, is being carried out with the expert guidance of Organic Architects, who specialise in restoring historic buildings for modern food and drink production.

King Charles has previously expressed a desire for the mill’s preservation.

To mark the occasion, the Caithness Youth Pipe Band performed live as the stills were arriving.

In return for their efforts, the distillery supported the band’s fundraising for their upcoming trip to the Tartan Parade in Edinburgh, providing a donation and Easter eggs for the young pipers.

The new copper pot stills sit in the main building, in front of large windows offering a view out to the sea.

The installation of the stills is one of the final steps before an internal fit-out begins ahead of the distillery’s opening, planned for this summer.

Andrea Wise, founder and director of Organic Architects, said: “The arrival of the stills at Castletown is a defining moment in the project.

“It marks the transition from restoration to production – from preserving the past to creating the future.

“Through sensitive design and close collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland and Highland Council, the team is making sure that the building will serve as a local landmark for generations to come.”

As the project moves into its next phase, the distillery is already creating new opportunities for local employment, tourism, and enterprise – positioning Castletown as a hub for both the whisky industry and the wider community.

Claire Murray of Dunnet Bay Distillers added: “Seeing the stills arrive is an exciting moment – these stills aren’t just equipment, they symbolise the rebirth of Castletown Mill.

“With the help of Organic Architects, we’ve transformed this space from a forgotten ruin into a place full of potential – not only for producing exceptional whisky, but for supporting the local community and welcoming visitors from around the world.”

The new Castletown Distillery will produce Stannergill whisky, a single malt already generating excitement through its pre-release bottlings that celebrate the spirit of Caithness.

A visitor centre, bistro, and shop are also planned for the site, which is set to become a key stop on the North Coast 500 and the Highland whisky trail.

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