From the scourge of Victorian Britain, through the stigma of 80s dinner parties and finally the connoisseur’s choice of today – gin has come a long way since the days of grimy backstreets and bootleg booze.
Today, a gin and tonic is the epitome of cool – a picture-perfect punctuation to a hot summer’s day and the ultimate antidote to a hard day’s work (or indeed play).
These British shores are an important part of the history of this traditional spirit. Gin was once the preserve of the stiff upper lip, but now it’s accessible to all. So why not explore some of the best gin distilleries England has to offer?
Not only can you see how it’s made and discover the fascinating history of this world-famous beverage, but you can be sure they’ll be a few tasters thrown in too!
With that in mind, pack up your tonic, a cucumber (maybe a lime if you’re feeling adventurous) and check out three of the best gin distilleries this fair isle has to offer:
Black Friars Distillery, Plymouth
This distillery is the birthplace of probably the most famous gin in Britain – Plymouth Gin. Established way back in 1793, Black Friars is the oldest working gin distillery in England and is nestled in the heart of Plymouth.
With a building that dates back to the 1400s, it’s as much of a history lesson as it is a drinks tour, but don’t worry, there’s gin aplenty too. Of course if you’re looking to find hotels in Plymouth that are a little newer, look no further than our Travelodge in the centre of Plymouth.
You can take a guided tour of the distillery, learn the art of making such a fine spirit, and enjoy a lesson in tasting and a cocktail (or two) in their very own bar. This really is a gin-lover’s paradise.
Beefeater Gin Distillery Experience, London
Set to open by the end of the year, the Beefeater Gin Distillery Experience offers the most exciting and modern tour through this spirit’s past in Britain.
Inspired by the world famous Beefeater gin (the most awarded gin brand ever) it will take you through the history of gin – a drink that is a star of the capital’s past as much as black cabs, red telephone boxes and the great fire of London – while also allowing you to taste everything the Beefeater experts have to offer.
Ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic experience for gin-lovers and history buffs alike by staying at one of our London hotels. Why not make a weekend of it and fit in some other sights to?
City of London Distillery, London
If you’re really interested in getting to the bottom of this very British drink then the City of London Distillery can take your knowledge and in the process, love, of gin to the next level.
Enjoy their gin experience, take a course in tasting or even make your own gin in this fantastic modern distillery in the city where it all began. Also, if you fancy fitting it into a weekend away then why not stay in one of our hotels in London?
