If you’re a gin lover, the Whitby Gin Distillery Tour is a fun and interesting way to spend the day; here’s all you need to know!
You have probably seen and tried Whitby Gin in the many pubs, restaurants, and shops in Whitby. Did you know that you can learn how it’s made? From the carefully selected botanicals to the distillation process and the final product, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the gin and its intricate flavours. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Whitby Distillery Tour is the perfect way to discover the beauty of gin and the artistry of distilling it.
Whitby Gin
Despite initially having no experience in distilling, Whitby Gin’s creators were fuelled by their passion and dedication to create a high-quality gin that would pay homage to the diverse natural landscape of their beloved home. Their signature botanicals, including heather from the North York Moors, sugar kelp, and local honey, were carefully chosen to celebrate different elements of the North Yorkshire coastline.
FREE Whitby Mini-Guide
"Get the best from your stay in Whitby."
Everything you need to know about Whitby into a free mini-guide!
They went on to develop an extensive library of flavours, with the help of family and friends who offered to taste-test. After much trial and error, they finally discovered the perfect combination.
After nine months, the first bottles of Whitby Gin were finally produced in a 40 sq ft utility room. They managed to produce 3,000 bottles from that tiny space! Even today they are only at the beginning of their exciting journey. They continue to spur creativity and innovation to bring customers new and exciting products while staying true to the town that inspires them. Read more about the history of Whitby Gin here.
Whitby Gin Distilling
Whitby Gin is lovingly crafted in Dora-Grace, their 300L copper still, paying tribute to Dora Walker, an unsung hero of Whitby. During WW2, she was the only female skipper, and they honour her legacy by ensuring that the highest quality gin is produced in one pass of the still. Using a single-shot London Dry Gin distillation process and their hand-beaten copper still, they capture only the finest alcohol, creating a superior quality product. By choosing not to chill filter, the gin is packed with flavourful botanical oils, which you can see in the glow when it’s chilled.
Whitby Gin Botanicals
The team finds endless inspiration in the stark contrast between land and sea. It’s incredible how the rugged coastline and the ocean’s depths offer a diverse range of native botanicals that they use to flavour Whitby Gin. For example, they collaborate with the North York Moors Authority to collect Heather Flower from June to September. Additionally, they work with SeaGrown, a seaweed farm located 5 miles offshore from Scarborough to source forgotten flavours from the sea like sugar kelp and pepper dulse. They also love using Yorkshire Honey, which they incorporate into several of their editions.
Take the One Hour Whitby Gin Distillery Tour
The one hour distillery tour takes you behind the scenes of the distillery and is your chance to learn all about how they craft their award-winning spirits. Tours are held three days a week. (Friday and Saturday at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm, and Sunday at 11 am and 1 pm)
During your tour, you’ll enjoy a refreshing Whitby Gin & tonic made with Original Whitby Gin (25ml) perfect serve. You’ll also get a detailed introduction to the beginning of Whitby Distillery. In this botanical masterclass, you can touch and smell the pillars of their gin and have an up-close look at the iconic copper still. You’ll try three different spirits tasters and take home a complimentary Whitby Gin glass.
Please note that this tour is for over 18s only, and a soft drink option will be available for non-drinkers. Designated drivers will get a Whitby Gin 5cl mini bottle to enjoy at home.
They recommend arriving at least 5 minutes early to ensure prompt start times, and please be aware that they do not distill on Saturdays and Sundays. Unfortunately, they cannot accommodate dogs on the tours, and the shop is card-only. The location is wheelchair accessible. Click here to book online.
Taking the Whitby Distillery Tour is a must-do experience for any gin lover. The tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour educational and enjoyable at the same time. So, if you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to spend your day, head over to Whitby Distillery and indulge in the beauty of gin-making. Also, if you have already been, let us know what you thought. You can comment below and tell us about your experience.
Available in our online store
HMS Falcon Whitby Gin Hamper
- Bramble & Bay Whitby Gin 70cl bottle
- Whitby Gin dark chocolate
- 2 Whitby Gin glasses
- Blue Ribbon Tie Whitby Hampers Luxury gift box
- Free Personalised Whitby Postcard
