Our History

We invite you to experience all we have to offer, including a deck perfect for drinking and dining, spectacular views over the River Spey and the chance to relax 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.

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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.