Millhall Reservoir

Explorer Tom Falkirk Distillery offers a Lowland whisky outing with a proper working still house, not merely a shelf of handsome bottles pretending to have done the work. Its Grandsable Road address near Polmont might sound plain, but wait until you smell the warehouse. I would bring my nose and leave my imaginary horse outside. The guided visit begins with founder George Stewart on video, then takes guests through the mill room, still house and traditional dunnage warehouse. The distillery makes, matures and bottles its own single malt. Visit Falkirk points out its old rake-and-plough mash tun and a cooperage display, useful reminders that whisky has to be made with real tools before anyone can raise an elegant glass. My first attempt would probably produce warm porridge and an apology. The standard tour includes three tasting drams and ends in the shop. There is even an option to fill a bottle from a cask, if you fancy a souvenir with a more personal story than a fridge magnet. Look at the equipment, ask why the warehouse matters, and let the guide lead. Do not mistake the visiting route for permission to wander through a working production site. Book a timed tour in advance through the distillery, which sets different slots across the week. Its current tour notice says the still house cannot accommodate wheelchair or scooter users, although reception, the shop and warehouse welcome them; ask the team about the route that suits you. Children under eight cannot join the standard tour. Bring a driver if you plan to taste, then let Falkirk's other sights wait until the drams have finished their argument.