HOUSE OF MALT PRESENTS
NORTHERN WHISKY FESTIVAL 2025
Join us for an exclusive whisky experience like no other.
As one of the UK’s premier online whisky retailers, House of Malt is proud to present Northern Whisky Festival – a celebration of world-class whisky, distiller excellence, and Northern hospitality.
Across two tasting sessions spanning 3.5hrs each, attendees will engage with top suppliers, sample a wide range of exceptional spirits, and (with an additional ticket) attend exclusive masterclasses hosted by leading distilleries in our dedicated Library Room - learn more .
SEE THE LATEST:
Each ticket includes:
- Access to one session.
- A House of Malt glass available to keep.
- 10% discount voucher for a future online purchase.
- 1x free entry into our Springbank ballot.
Additional Benefits:
- Re-entry permitted with event wristband.
- 20% discount on rooms at The Halston for ticket holders (whilst available).
- Access to masterclasses (limited availability, first come first served).
LINEUP
OFFICIAL SPONSORS
EXHIBITORS (A-Z)
BALLOT
Your Chance to Purchase*
As part of the Northern Whisky Festival, we are excited to offer ticketholders the chance to enter our exclusive Springbank ballot.
Springbank is one of the most sought-after whiskies in the world. This ballot provides a unique opportunity for attendees to purchase a bottle from House of Malt on their next release (estimated release date: October 2025).
- Eligibility: You must attend the event and hold a valid ticket.
- Ballot draw: The ballot will be drawn after the event.
- Notification: Successful entrants will be notified via email.
*Please note: Entry into the ballot does not guarantee a purchase, as bottles are limited and demand is high.
MASTERCLASS
A Masterclass Ticket grants access to one exclusive tasting session, as detailed in the ticket description. These are sold separately from general admission and can be purchased below*:
Masterclasses:
- Masterclass with Bladnoch — Afternoon Session Tasting 12.45pm-1.15pm
- Masterclass with Johnnie Walker — Afternoon Session Tasting 2pm-2.45pm
-
SOLD OUT -
Masterclass with Bowmore — Evening Session Tasting 5.45pm-6.15pm - Masterclass with a Speyside Distillery — Evening Session Tasting 7:00pm-7:45pm
*Masterclass tickets are non-transferable between different masterclasses. Only the named ticket holder will be granted entry to the designated masterclass. No substitutions or transfers allowed.
FAQ
When and where is the festival taking place?
The Northern Whisky Festival will be held on Saturday 1st November 2025 at The Halston, a premium venue located in the heart of Carlisle. Please see our venue information below.
How much are tickets and what’s included?
Tickets are priced at £50 (per ticket) and each ticket grants access to your preferred session: 12:00–15:30 or 17:00–20:30. Your Ticket includes:
- Unlimited access to a huge selection of whiskies to taste
- One-on-one interaction with distillery experts and brand ambassadors
- A complimentary branded tasting glass to take home
- An official festival guide to help navigate the full experience
- Free automatic entry into the coveted Springbank Ballot
An unmissable experience for any serious whisky enthusiast.
Can I shop at the event?
Absolutely. A dedicated on-site retail space will be available, and for a larger selection, the official House of Malt flagship store is located just a short walk from the venue.
Will there be bottles available for purchase?
Yes. Many of the whiskies on show will be available to buy on the day, including exclusive and limited-edition releases. Stock is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Is there an engraving service?
Yes – there will be a live bottle engraving station on site. A curated selection of bottles will be eligible for engraving. Keep an eye out for the marked stand adjacent to the engraving zone.
What if I need accommodation?
We’ve taken care of that. Please see our venue information below, featuring local accommodation options and recommended restaurants.
Can I attend more than one session?
Each ticket grants entry to one session only, and sessions are non transferable. If you'd like to attend both sessions, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for each.
Are tickets refundable or transferable?
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets are non-transferable between sessions and must be used by the named ticket holder.
What is the legal drinking age?
This is a strictly 18+ event. Valid photo ID may be requested at the door.
Will there be food and non-alcoholic drinks available?
Food will not be served within the main festival space. However, water stations will be available throughout the venue, and a selection of non-alcoholic drinks will be on hand to ensure you stay refreshed during the session. For dining before or after the event, we recommend exploring one of the fantastic local restaurants. Discover more about the venue and dining options below.
Can I bring my own bottles to be engraved or signed?
Engraving will only be available for bottles purchased at the event or via House of Malt. No personal bottles will be accepted.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is encouraged. This is a premium event, but comfort is key — you’ll be on your feet exploring!
VENUE
The Halston
20-34 Warwick Rd,
Carlisle
CA1 1AB
ACCOMMODATION
The Halston Aparthotel
Official venue for the Northern Whisky Festival.
Located in the heart of Carlisle, The Halston Aparthotel is a stylish and modern venue that offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury suites to comfortable apartments. With its prime location, hotel-style service, on-site dining, bar, gym, and event spaces it’s the perfect base for exploring the city and enjoying the Northern Whisky Festival.
20-34 Warwick Road,
CA1 1AB
ibis Carlisle City Centre
Portlands, Botchergate, CA1 1RP
Modern & budget-friendly, with a 24h bar, free Wi-Fi, and close to nightlife and transport.
SEE MORECounty Hotel Carlisle
9 Botchergate, CA1 1RP
Historic Victorian-style hotel with 84 en-suite rooms, great value and central location.
SEE MORECarlisle Station Hotel
Court Square, CA1 1QY
Elegant period hotel next to the station with modern comforts and on-site dining.
SEE MOREPrefer something more personal than a hotel?
Explore a wide range of Airbnb options across Carlisle. From cosy city-centre apartments to charming cottages just a short walk from the festival. Ideal for groups, couples, or anyone after a more flexible stay.
Air BnB Around CA11DNFESTIVAL SHOP
PRESENTED BY
HOUSE OF MALT
Our on-site Festival Shop brings a curated selection of premium whiskies and standout spirits directly to the Northern Whisky Festival floor.
Founded in 2015, House of Malt is an independent, family-run business based in Carlisle, and has grown to become one of the UK’s leading online retailers of whisky and fine spirits. Known for our deep product knowledge, fair pricing, and warm, reliable service, we now serve thousands of loyal customers across the country every month.
As hosts of the Festival Shop, we’re bringing that same trusted service to the festival experience, offering attendees the chance to purchase exclusive bottles, limited releases, and festival-featured drams on the day.
Whether it’s a rare single malt discovered in a masterclass or a distillery-first release from an exhibitor stand, you’ll find it right here.
We’ve built our business on genuine word-of-mouth, an obsession with quality, and a customer-first philosophy. Our goal is to make your experience smooth, exciting, and memorable, just like the whiskies the festival is showcasing.
Our team will be on hand throughout the day, ready with expert recommendations or simply a friendly chat about your next great bottle.
We’re thrilled to be the official retail partner for the festival, and we can’t wait to raise a glass with you.
Shop after the festival at houseofmalt.co.uk and explore the full range online, featuring new arrivals, rare finds, and award-winning favourites.
DINING
PENNY BLUE
BAR & RESTAURANT
The Halston, Warwick Road, CA1 1AB
Stylish modern dining offering small plates and grills with craft cocktails and fine wines.
SEE MOREALEXANDROS GREEK
RESTAURANT & DELI
68 Warwick Road, CA1 1DR
Authentic Greek cuisine in a lively, family-run setting. Mezze, grilled meats, and live music.
SEE MOREMICHELANGELO
BAR & RESTAURANT
35 Warwick Road, CA1 1EE
Elegant Italian dishes in a converted church with seasonal menus and warm service.
SEE MOREDAVID'S
RESTAURANT
62 Warwick Road, Carlisle, CA1 1DR
Stylish modern dining offering small plates and grills with craft cocktails and fine wines.
SEE MOREMORE VISITOR INFO
We're excited to welcome you to the city of Carlisle. For more information on local attractions, dining options, and things to do during your visit, please visit Discover Carlisle. This website includes recommendations for restaurants, bars, and local attractions to help you make the most of your time in Carlisle.
DISCOVER CARLISLETERMS
By purchasing a ticket to the Northern Whisky Festival, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
Session Access
Each ticket permits entry only to the session time specified.
Tickets are non-transferable between session times.
Session start and end times must be strictly adhered to. This is essential for health and safety protocols and to allow for safe changeovers and venue operations.
Masterclass Tickets
A Masterclass Ticket provides additional access to a specific masterclass, as detailed on the ticket, and must be purchased separately from the main event ticket.
Masterclass Tickets are non-transferable between different masterclasses.
Only the named ticket holder will be admitted to the designated masterclass, no substitutions or transfers permitted.
Non-Refundable Sales
All ticket sales are final. No refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including (but not limited to) scheduling conflicts, illness, or travel disruptions.
Entry Requirements
Entry to all sessions and masterclasses requires a valid ticket; ID may be requested for verification.
Late arrivals may be denied entry or access to portions of the event at the discretion of the organisers.
Health & Safety Compliance
Attendees must comply with all venue health and safety guidelines.
Failure to follow session times or staff instructions may result in removal from the event without refund.
The Northern Whisky Festival reserves the right to amend these terms at any time. Please consult the official festival website for the most current version of these terms and conditions.
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