Speyside Distillers to take space at Sunderland’s Sheepfolds’ stables

Speyside Distillers has been announced as the latest business set to take space at the Grade II listed venue, Sheepfolds’ stables, located in Sunderland.

The whisky lounge, titled The Spey Snug, is set to open its doors in 2023 and will serve up the range of Speyside’s single malts, as well as its juniper enhanced gin and a range of cigars.

The lounge will be decorated with rich heavy fabrics, bespoke leather furniture and tells the story of Speyside’s heritage.

The venue will hold whisky and cigar tasting evenings as well as opening up availability for private hire for those hosting events or celebrations. 

To commemorate the move, Speyside Distillery is said to be looking into the production of a Sheepfolds Single Malt.

Speyside Distillers’ CEO John Harvey McDonough has close connections with Sunderland and commented on the decision to bring the Spey Snug to the city: “We are thrilled to be bringing Spey Snug to Sheepfolds in Sunderland, working with the BDN team. Having lived in Sunderland previously, it is wonderful to come back and be part of a venue that will be a stunning addition for people living and visiting the city. “This is a really special venue with such heritage. It was an opportunity we just couldn’t pass by. And to be able to develop a new product that will give this venue something really unique to offer to its customers is just fantastic.”

The announcement of the lounge marks Speyside as the fourth business to take up space at the stables. Sunderland City Council’s leader Graeme Miller spoke highly on the venue and the idea of the lounge: “The offer at this brilliant new venue just gets stronger and stronger with each announcement, and as a Scotsman with a passion for Sunderland, I am particularly pleased to see Speyside Distillery launch its first Spey Snug outside of Scotland in this wonderful city I am proud to call home.”

4 January 2023 - Bradley Weir