Build A Barrel - Oak & Black

Build-a-barrel experience Near Edinburgh

Build-a-barrel Experiences offer one of Scotland’s most distinctive creative workshops, giving you the opportunity to build your own handcrafted Barrel Bar from reclaimed oak whisky barrels in a fully guided, immersive experience. These are available between May and October. Based in East Lothian, Oak & Black combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design, allowing guests to create a personalised, unique and functional piece that becomes a lasting centrepiece at home.

Alongside their renowned workshops, Oak & Black also produces and sells a curated range of handcrafted barrel furniture, homeware and gifts, making this both an unforgettable experience and a destination for unique Scottish artisan products.

The Barrel Experience – Build Your Own Personalised Barrel Bar

Oak & Black’s signature offering is the Build-A-Barrel Experience, where you’ll work directly with reclaimed whisky barrels and professional tools to craft your own bespoke Barrel Bar.

Fully Guided Workshop (2 or 2.5 Days)

These immersive experiences are designed for up to two participants and include:

• Hands-on woodworking using authentic reclaimed oak whisky barrels

• Metalwork, shaping and structural assembly

• Personalisation including custom engraved nameplates

• Expert guidance throughout the build process

• All tools, materials, refreshments and homemade lunches included

The experience is accessible to beginners while still deeply rewarding for those interested in craftsmanship, woodworking and creative design.

Gold Barrel Experience (2 Days)

The Gold Barrel Experience offers a complete introduction to barrel craftsmanship and includes:

• Handcrafted barrel bar made by you

• Integrated lighting system

• Magnetic bottle opener

• Functional middle shelf for storage

• Personalised engraved nameplate

This produces a fully functional barrel bar ideal for home entertaining.

Platinum Barrel Experience (2.5 Days)

The extended Platinum Barrel Experience includes everything in the Gold package, plus additional premium features:

• Engraved barrel top

• Removable rotating turntable base

• Additional storage shelf

• Extra creative projects during your workshop

• Home-made lunch included on both days

This upgraded experience allows greater customisation and results in a truly one-of-a-kind heirloom piece.

Shop Handcrafted Barrel Furniture, Homeware & Gifts

In addition to their workshop experiences, Oak & Black also creates and sells a wide range of artisan products made from reclaimed whisky barrels.

Barrel Furniture & Home Pieces

Their handcrafted range includes:

• Custom-made Barrel bars

• Custom engraved Barrel End Wall Hangers

• Unique home décor made from reclaimed oak

Each item is individually crafted, making every piece completely unique.

Gifts & Accessories

Oak & Black also offers smaller handcrafted items ideal for gifts, including:

• Personalised barrel gifts

• Decorative and functional whisky barrel products

• Items can be shipped to you.

These pieces reflect Scotland’s whisky heritage while offering contemporary design and everyday usability.

Location – East Lothian, Near Edinburgh

Oak & Black is based in East Lothian, offering easy access from Edinburgh while providing a peaceful workshop setting.

This makes it ideal for:

• Unique experiences near Edinburgh

• Creative workshops in Scotland

• Memorable couples’ experiences

• Gift experiences and special occasions

It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional attractions and one where you leave with both memories and something you’ve created yourself.

Who Oak & Black Barrel Experiences Are Perfect For

• Couples looking for unique experiences near Edinburgh

• Whisky enthusiasts and craft lovers

• Visitors seeking hands-on creative workshops in Scotland

• People wanting to create a meaningful heirloom piece

• Anyone interested in artisan Scottish craftsmanship and whisky barrel furniture

Why Oak & Black Stands Out

• Build your own personalised barrel bar in a guided workshop

• Choose from Gold and Platinum Barrel Experiences

• Shop handcrafted barrel furniture, décor and gifts

• Work with authentic reclaimed whisky barrels

• Outstanding choice if you're seeking whisky barrel experiences in Scotland, craft workshops near Edinburgh, and “unique experiences East Lothian”

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