For gin lovers eager to dive into its rich history and vibrant production culture, London stands as an ideal destination. Once notorious for the gin-driven debauchery depicted in William Hogarth's 'Gin Lane', London has evolved into a bustling centre of gin distillation. Now there are a lot of gin tours in London, offering both immersive and educational experiences.
From the traditional craftsmanship at Hayman's London Dry Gin, through the innovative creations of Sipsmith, to the heritage-rich City of London Distillery, London's gin scene has a journey for every enthusiast. These tours provide more than a simple visit; they offer a deep dive into gin-making artistry, with chances to taste award-winning gins and even mix your own cocktails.
Each distillery presents its unique take on gin, from time-honored distillation techniques to modern flavours and botanicals. If you're set for a gin-centric exploration and keen to uncover the finest of London's gin distilleries, here's your starting point.
The Pioneers of London's Gin Renaissance
1 - Sipsmith Distillery
Sipsmith Distillery, founded in 2009 by Fairfax Hall, Sam Galsworthy, and Jared Brown, marked a significant milestone in London's modern gin renaissance by becoming the first distillery in nearly two centuries to craft gin in the city. Their path to success was fraught with challenges, notably the need to advocate for legal changes to permit the use of smaller stills, a practice previously prohibited by a law from 1823.
Their perseverance and innovative approach culminated in the creation of Sipsmith London Dry Gin, meticulously distilled in their 300-litre still, affectionately named 'Prudence'. Embracing traditional craftsmanship and small-batch production, Sipsmith has emerged as a leader in the artisanal spirits movement in the UK, setting new standards for quality and authenticity.
The name 'Sipsmith' pays homage to the artisanship and meticulous nature of their gin production, inspired by the craft of Fairfax's father, a silversmith. This dedication to excellence and a passion for gin crafting have established Sipsmith as a paragon of quality and distinctiveness in the London Dry Gin category. Offering distillery tours, gin tastings, and cocktail masterclasses, their facility in Chiswick provides an immersive experience into the art of gin making.
- Address: 83 Cranbrook Rd, Chiswick, London
2 - Beefeater Gin Distillery
Tracing its origins back to 1863, Beefeater Gin Distillery stands as a historic pillar of London's gin legacy. James Burrough, a pharmacist turned distiller, founded Beefeater after acquiring the Chelsea Distillery for £400, bringing a scientific precision to the art of gin crafting and experimenting with diverse botanicals to formulate the iconic Beefeater Gin.
This robust, flavour-rich gin swiftly rose to prominence, earning a reputation as one of the most globally recognized gin brands. Beefeater's illustrious history includes being the sole gin selected for the QEII's inaugural voyage to New York in 1963. As the only historic dry gin still distilled in London, Beefeater remains steadfast in its commitment to tradition, employing time-honoured stills like Still No. 12 to guarantee the unwavering quality and character of its gin.
The enduring legacy and contribution of Beefeater to London's gin-making history underscore the city's rich tradition in the craft of gin production.
- Address: 20 Montford Pl, London
Modern Craftsmanship and Innovation
3 - East London Liquor Company
The East London Liquor Company stands as a pillar of modern craftsmanship and innovation within the London gin industry. Nestled in the historic East End, this distillery has revitalized spirits production in the area after more than a hundred years. Their philosophy intertwines traditional techniques with modern concepts, creating a distinctive and dynamic range of spirits.
At the heart of their operation are the custom-designed, hand-built Arnold Holstein copper stills, which are used to distill their 100% British Wheat Vodka, three styles of London Dry gin, and whisky, highlighted by their celebrated London Rye®.
A key element of the East London Liquor Company's success is their dedication to premium botanicals and pioneering production methods. Their gins are designed to be approachable in both flavour and price, while upholding the utmost quality standards.
Their forward-thinking approach has earned them accolades, including a Master for Distillery Innovation and a Gold for Consumer Experience at the Distillery Masters 2016 competition.
- Address: Bow Wharf, Unit GF1, 221 Grove Rd., Old Ford, London
4 - City of London Distillery
The City of London Distillery, the proud home of Whitley Neill Gin, represents another shining example of modern craftsmanship and innovation. Established in 2012, the distillery has led the charge in reviving London's storied gin legacy while incorporating innovative techniques. It operates with two 200-litre copper pot stills, Clarissa and Jennifer, along with a larger 500-litre still named Elizabeth, introduced in 2016 to increase production capabilities.
This blend of traditional and contemporary stills facilitates a wide array of gin varieties, including London Dry, sloe, Old Tom, and lemon gins.
Notably, the City of London Distillery offers a Gin Lab experience, allowing visitors to delve into the distillation process, discover different botanicals, and craft their own unique gin recipe. This hands-on experience not only educates but deeply immerses visitors in the craft of gin production. Their commitment to quality and transparency shines through in their practice of distilling their own base spirit and redistilling it with botanicals, granting them superior control over the end product.
- Address: 22-24 Bride Ln, City of London, London
Why Visit Gin Distilleries on a Walking Food Tour?
Exploring London’s gin distilleries through a walking food tour offers much more than tasting exceptional spirits—it’s an engaging journey into the city’s history, craftsmanship, and culture. Here’s why a walking tour is the perfect way to experience London’s best gin spots:
- Uncover Hidden Distilleries: Many of London’s top gin distilleries are nestled in charming alleyways and historic neighbourhoods, best discovered on foot. Walking allows you to stumble upon unique, lesser-known gems that you might otherwise miss.
- Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Strolling through London’s vibrant streets gives you the chance to connect with the city’s rich gin-making traditions, from its storied past to its modern-day innovations.
- Sip and Stroll with Ease: Walking between distilleries lets you savour each tasting session without feeling rushed. It’s also a great way to enjoy the journey guilt-free, balancing indulgence with light exercise.
A gin-focused walking tour not only satisfies your palate but also deepens your understanding of London’s spirited heritage, making it a memorable and enriching experience.
A Toast to London's Gin Heritage
In conclusion, London's gin distilleries present a vibrant collage of history, innovation, and hands-on experiences designed to delight every gin aficionado. From trailblazers like Sipsmith and Beefeater, who have breathed new life into the classic London Dry Gin, to the contemporary artisanship of East London Liquor Company and City of London Distillery, each establishment offers a distinct window into the gin universe.
Whether you're crafting your own gin, venturing on a distillery tour, or indulging in a tasting session, these activities stand as a tribute to London's persistent gin legacy. So, let's raise a glass and celebrate the beverage that has enchanted the city for generations – now is the perfect time to dive into and relish the finest offerings of London's gin culture.
Best Walking Food Tour In London
Embarking on a walking food tour with London Private Experience of Sherpa Food Tours offers more than just savouring exquisite dishes—it’s an opportunity to explore the essence of London.
This thoughtfully crafted tour lead you through artisanal bakeries, hidden markets, and exclusive dining locations, providing a deeper look into the city's dynamic culinary scene. Perfect for both first-timers and seasoned travellers, the tours offer a unique view of London, uncovering its lesser-known flavours and hidden treasures.
FAQ About Visiting London
How Can I Save Money While Sightseeing?
Consider purchasing a London Pass or sightseeing combo tickets for access to multiple attractions at a discounted rate. Many museums, like the British Museum and the National Gallery, offer free entry.
What’s The Best Way To Experience London’s Nightlife?
Explore Soho’s lively pubs and bars, catch a West End show, or head to areas like Shoreditch or Camden for trendy nightclubs and live music.
Do I Need To Tip At Restaurants In London?
Tipping is not mandatory in London, but it’s customary to leave 10-15% if service is not included in the bill. Check the receipt to see if a service charge has already been added.