Zoey Darnbrough had no idea a whisky distillery existed near her hometown in southern Scotland just a few years ago. Today, the 26-year-old has risen from tour guide to group tourism and events co-ordinator at Annandale Distillery near Annan, and was recently nominated for "rising star" recognition at the South of Scotland Thistle Awards. According to BBC News, her rapid career progression demonstrates the opportunities available in Scotland's heritage and tourism sector.
After completing her studies in heritage and tourism at Stirling University, Darnbrough made an unconventional choice by returning to Dumfries and Galloway rather than pursuing opportunities in larger cities. Her path to the distillery was not straightforward—she did not achieve the exam results she had hoped for at school and spent time working in the kitchens at Dumfries Infirmary before a position at Annandale Distillery became available.
How did she discover her passion for whisky?
When the opportunity arose at Annandale Distillery, Darnbrough seized it despite initial uncertainty about the industry. She recalled her first impressions:
"My first thought was - there's a distillery in Annan? And my second thought was - whisky? I thought I'd give it a chance and see what it was like because there's a lot of heritage when it comes to whisky."Now, after three-and-a-half years in the role, she has become deeply invested in the sector.
"I've now been here three-and-a-half years and I've not looked back."
The distillery itself has undergone a remarkable transformation. Annandale shut down in 1919 and remained closed for 90 years before reopening, making its revival a significant moment for the region's heritage and economy.
What makes the south of Scotland attractive to young professionals?
Darnbrough highlights several factors that should appeal to her generation. Property costs in the region are substantially lower than in major cities, a significant advantage for young people starting their careers. Beyond economics, she emphasises the area's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.
"The south of Scotland has so much heritage and it is a passion of mine. So I would naturally like to be somewhere where there's a lot of heritage and where I can kind of grow as an individual."She points to the diversity of offerings available locally:
"We've got so much to offer in terms of castles, in terms of scenery, in terms of attractions, accommodation, it's so vast. I always like to say that we've got everything that the Highlands have, but just in a much quieter area. But we're going to use that quietness to our strength."
What challenges has she faced in a male-dominated industry?
Darnbrough acknowledges that working in whisky has presented challenges, particularly when dealing with assumptions about her knowledge compared to older, male counterparts.
"It has been tricky, I'm not going to lie. But I always think that if you prepare yourself well, those types of questions cannot faze you."She has been fortunate to experience mostly positive interactions, though she recognises that others in the industry face greater obstacles.
"I've been so fortunate that all my experiences have been mostly pleasant and so I have not really felt it, but I do understand the struggles that other people face. We just need to start changing people's opinions one woman at a time."
How can the region retain young talent?
Darnbrough believes more could be done to prevent young people from leaving the south of Scotland. She advocates for greater engagement with local schools to highlight career opportunities in heritage and tourism sectors.
"I would like to think we could go back to the local schools across the region and try and explain that there are other careers out there including in heritage and tourism."
She also calls for improved regional marketing.
"We've got so much to offer in terms of castles, in terms of scenery, in terms of attractions, accommodation, it's so vast."Better promotion of these assets could help young professionals recognise the value of staying or returning to the area.
What is the future of Annandale Distillery?
The distillery is advancing its sustainability credentials significantly. Alto Whisky reported that Annandale Distillery commissioned a £3.6 million thermal energy storage hub in 2026, designed to use renewable electricity to provide heat for distilling. The Spirits Business noted that this heat system is part of a 12-step plan to produce net-zero whisky and is intended to replace fossil fuels in distillation.
The distillery's quality has also gained recognition. In September 2026, the distillery secured two finalist places in the Scottish Whisky Awards' "Single Cask Scotch 12 and Under" category, and was shortlisted for the Environment Champion award at the 2026 Dumfries & Galloway Life Awards.
What are Zoey's plans?
Darnbrough intends to remain in the region for the foreseeable future.
"I'm only beginning to stick my teeth into the south of Scotland. So to leave, it would have to be a fairly big jump."Her commitment to the area and the whisky industry reflects a broader message: that meaningful careers and personal growth are possible outside major urban centres, and that the south of Scotland has substantial untapped potential for young professionals willing to invest in their communities.
