Unassuming but lovely distillery
4
4
Date of visit: July 2026
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
North Uist Distillery, which makes Downpour Gin, known for its unique flavours and ornate bottles, was one of the many stops on our trip and the second distillery we stopped at. From the car park outside, we could smell the distinctive aroma of the distillery in the air. Nunton Steadings, the building that houses the distillery, dates back to the 1700s, but that doesn't mean it's inaccessible.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
Access around the building is generally good, but it may not be suitable for everyone. From the car park, there is a long, shallow tarmac ramp with a handrail to the left as you ascend. There was a spillage across the ramp, but it did not make it slippery. I was unclear if it was just water or a spillage that took place during the distilling process, as it was near an opening where you could see the stills. At the top of the ramp, there is a small doorway with a lip. The door opens inwards. A bell in this area to signal staff would make a world of difference, allowing those travelling solo to get assistance. Navigating the building was simple enough, with corridors wide enough for most mobility devices. The shop area has a large variety of gins, whiskies and other non-alcoholic gifts, like totes, hats and T-shirts. Some of the products are high up, but staff are happy to help. There is no lowered counter. There is a second seating area inside, which appears to be used for events and those in for a quick drink. This area has long tables in a U-shape, with movable benches.
Accessible facilities: Single-level venue, Step-free entrance, Seating at regular intervals
Parking & Transport
Average
I travelled to this place by personal vehicle
There is a bus stop next to the car park, where the W16, W17, W18 and W19 services operate. There are no trains on the island. The best way to get here is undoubtedly by car. You'll find a car park just outside. There are no marked bays, but there is loads of space. The car park is tarmacked, so no pesky gravel to contend with for those of us using mobility aids.
Accessible facilities: Dedicated on-site parking
Accessible Toilets
Average
The accessible toilet does not require a RADAR key and the door opens inwards. The toilet is small, but there is enough room to turn a wheelchair or powerchair, but not a scooter. There is an emergency cord to the right of the toilet when seated. It hangs to the floor, which is always good to see! There is space for a left-side transfer, but it is pretty tight. The flush is on the cistern, high on the wall, opposite the transfer space, which makes it very awkward to flush. The toilet has rails on either side, but as the rails, toilet and walls are all white, there is no visual contrast. The sink has a small basin and a lever-style tap. There is a mirror above and a single grab rail to the left. Again, there is no visual contrast here. I would like to see the flush moved to a more sensible location and, in the absence of the rails being changed to coloured rails, the walls painted to provide visual contrast.
Facilities: Accessible toilet
Staff
Excellent
The staff are very lovely and were happy to receive feedback on accessibility, which is always a good thing.
