Full Breakdown
Zoey Darnbrough Leads the Revival of Annandale Distillery and South-Scotland Heritage Tourism
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From Tour Guide to Tourism Coordinator
Zoey Darnbrough, a 26-year-old graduate of a heritage and tourism program in Stirling, returned to her native Dumfries and Galloway after a stint working in hospital kitchens. She entered Annandale Distillery as a tour guide and, within three-and-a-half years, advanced to the role of group tourism and events coordinator. Darnbrough describes her move to the distillery as a chance to explore the region’s whisky heritage, a sector she believes can reshape perceptions of the south of Scotland one woman at a time.
Annandale Distillery’s Century-Long Gap
The Annandale Distillery, located near Annan, originally ceased operations in 1919. It reopened roughly 90 years later, marking a revival of whisky production in the area. The distillery recently released its first 10-year-old malt, the first such offering in 99 years, underscoring the long-awaited return of a local spirit.
Vision for Regional Heritage and Tourism
Darnbrough argues that the south of Scotland offers a blend of castles, scenery, attractions, and accommodation comparable to the Highlands, but with a quieter atmosphere that can be leveraged as a strength. She highlights lower property costs relative to urban centres as an incentive for young people to remain locally. Darnbrough also calls for outreach to regional schools to raise awareness of career paths in heritage and tourism, noting that many young residents are unaware of such opportunities.
Recognition and Future Outlook
The distillery nominated Darnbrough for “rising star” recognition at the South of Scotland Thistle Awards, reflecting her rapid ascent within the company. She plans to continue promoting the region’s assets, emphasizing that a significant move away from Dumfries and Galloway would require a “fairly big jump.” Her ongoing efforts aim to boost the distillery’s profile while encouraging broader economic development in the south of Scotland.