But with restrictions set to be eased many will be reopening to those interested in learning about the brewing process – as well as tasting a few different beers.
With that in mind, here are a dozen of the most popular breweries in Scotland that welcome visitors.
Most offer a tour of the brewery, as well as organised tastings, food, a tap house (in-house bar) and other attractions.
Not all will be reopening as soon as restrictions ease, and many require advance booking, so best check their individual websites before setting out.
1. Tennent's Wellpark Brewery
A visit to the Tennent's Wellpark Brewery lets you see how Scotland's most popular lager is made, as well as featuring a rare collection of vintage and retro Tennent's packaging, a chance to watch Tennent's adverts from over the decades and also a shop with exclusive goodies to buy. Photo: Google Maps
2. Cairngorm Brewery
A relative newcomer to the scene, Aviemore's Cairngorm Brewery was founded in 2001 and offers tours and a shop where you can purchase their mix of traditional beers and contemporary brews. Photo: Google Maps
3. BrewDog DogTap and DogWalk Brewery Tour
Ellon's most popular tourist attraction is BrewDog's DogWalk tour, taking in the sometimes controversial company's original brewhouse and their huge new Lone Wolf distillery. Next door at the DogTap you can try a range of freshly-brewed beers. Photo: Google Maps
4. The Ferry Brewery
Before the Ferry Brewery opened there hadn't been a brewery in South Queensferry since 1851. They offer a brewery tour, a shop and tastings in their tap bar. Photo: Google Maps