The Wee Dram

For whisky lovers in Bakewell and beyond, The Wee Dram on Portland Square offers a truly exceptional retail experience. Opened in 1998 by founders Adrian and Alison Murray, this independent specialist shop has grown from shared frustration over limited whisky availability into a celebrated destination. The team brings decades of expertise to every interaction, helping customers navigate an extensive collection of single malt Scotch, Irish whiskey, Kentucky bourbon, and spirits from around the world. Whether you are a seasoned collector or exploring whisky for the first time, the warm, cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make every visit memorable.

The shop's reputation is built on an unwavering commitment to quality and personal service. Adrian, a Keeper of the Quaich, leads a team that includes family members and passionate enthusiasts who are always happy to share tasting notes, distillery histories, or recommendations for any budget. Alison's organizational talents bring the annual Wee Dram Fest to life each October, while Jordan's podcast "Cask Heads" extends the conversation to a global audience. From the moment you step through the door, you are welcomed not as a customer but as a fellow enthusiast.

Services & Facilities

The Wee Dram provides a range of services designed to suit every whisky journey. The physical shop on Portland Square is the heart of the operation, where shelves are stocked with bottles from Islay to Speyside, plus a curated selection of craft gins and liqueurs. For those who prefer to shop from home, the website offers a seamless online store with free delivery on orders over £125. Local customers can take advantage of in-store pickup, and a delivery service is available for added convenience.

Expert Guidance & Tasting Events

One of the shop's greatest strengths is the depth of knowledge shared by its staff. Whether you are trying to replace a beloved bottle or discover something new, the team provides personalized advice without any pressure. The Wee Dram also hosts private and public tasting events, often featuring guest speakers from distilleries. These gatherings are a perfect way to sample rare expressions, learn about production methods, and connect with other aficionados.

What We Offer

The product range at The Wee Dram is curated to reflect both classic staples and exciting discoveries. The core focus is Scotch whisky, with an impressive array of single malts from every region: the peaty powerhouses of Islay, the elegant drams of Speyside, the robust character of the Highlands, and the delicate notes of the Lowlands. Blended Scotch, blended malts, and single grains are also well represented.

Beyond Scotland, the selection spans the globe. Irish pot still whiskeys, Kentucky bourbons, Canadian ryes, and Japanese single malts sit alongside more unusual finds from Sweden, Taiwan, India, Australia, and England. A carefully chosen range of gins—including The Botanist from Islay—and a handful of liqueurs round out the shelves. Special offers and a "Malt of the Month" feature highlight exceptional value, while gift vouchers provide a flexible option for presents.

Why Customers Choose Us

Shoppers consistently praise The Wee Dram for its incredible selection, fair pricing, and the genuine passion of its staff. Reviews highlight the cozy atmosphere and the willingness of the team to go above and beyond—from introducing a visitor to older, more complex whiskies to patiently guiding beginners toward the perfect first purchase. The shop's independence means every bottle is chosen with care, not dictated by corporate mandates.

The founders' direct involvement ensures high standards are maintained daily. Adrian's status as a Keeper of the Quaich signals the shop's respected position within the Scotch whisky industry, while Alison's regular presence guarantees a warm, organized, and family-oriented environment. The annual Wee Dram Fest has become a highlight on the calendar for enthusiasts across the region, further cementing the shop's role as a community hub.

Serving Bakewell & England

Located at 5 Portland Square in the heart of Bakewell, The Wee Dram is perfectly positioned to serve both local residents and the millions of visitors who flock to the Peak District each year. The town's charming streets and proximity to Manchester, Sheffield, Derby, and Nottingham make it an ideal stop for a day trip or a dedicated whisky pilgrimage. After exploring the shop, guests can relax in the beautiful surroundings of the UK's oldest national park.

The business also reaches customers throughout England via its robust online and mail order operation. The website is easy to navigate, with categories for every region and style, and detailed product listings that help remote shoppers make informed decisions. Free delivery over £125 makes it especially convenient for those building a home collection or sending gifts to fellow enthusiasts.

Hours, Location & Directions

The Wee Dram welcomes visitors six days a week. Opening times are Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The shop is located at 5 Portland Square, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1HA. For any inquiries, the team can be reached by phone at +44 (0) 1629 812 235. Whether you are driving through the Peak District or planning a dedicated trip, the shop is easy to find and well worth the visit.

Questions Visitors Ask

Do you stock anything besides whisky?

Yes, along with the extensive whisky collection, we carry a select range of gins—including The Botanist from Islay—and a small number of liqueurs. The focus remains on spirits of the highest quality, personally chosen by the team.

Can I join a tasting event?

Absolutely. We host regular tasting events at the shop and also organize the annual Wee Dram Fest each October. Keep an eye on the website or sign up for the Wee Drammers mailing list to receive early notification of upcoming events.

Do you offer local delivery?

Yes, we provide delivery service and in-store pickup options. For online orders, we offer free delivery on all purchases over £125, making it easy to enjoy our selection from anywhere in the UK.