London’s Gin Renaissance: Historic Distilleries and Modern Pours
Gin & Tonic in London
The culture of London gin is defined by a 300-year evolution from the "Gin Craze" of the 18th century to the sophisticated, botanical-forward renaissance of today. Turnstile Travel can take you there this July, when we’ll soak in the warm summer air while exploring legendary distilleries like Hayman’s and the historic Black Friars, or journey just outside the city to the architectural marvel of Bombay Sapphire.
The Enduring Appeal of London’s Spirit
When you navigate the historic streets of the South Bank or the hidden alleys of the city, you are walking through the birthplace of the London Dry style. To understand the local obsession, one must look toward the "Mother’s Ruin" heritage that once dominated the East End. These are no longer the shadowy dens of the past; today’s London gin scene is a masterclass in balance, where the precise weight of juniper and citrus is treated with the same reverence as a fine vintage wine.
The United Kingdom continues to see a massive boom in craft distillation, with London serving as the beating heart of this movement. In the summer, the city’s rooftop bars and riverside terraces come alive, taking advantage of the long daylight hours—the sun doesn't set until nearly 9:30 PM—making it the perfect season for a botanical-themed adventure.
From Balham to the Barbican: Essential Distillery Stops
To experience the true range of English gin, one must visit the families and craftspeople who have kept the tradition alive. Hayman’s Gin Distillery (https://www.haymansgin.com/) in Balham is a vital stop. As the longest-serving gin distilling family in England, their "True English Gin" is crafted using a two-day process that has remained largely unchanged since 1863. A tour here offers a behind-the-scenes look at their copper stills, Marjorie, Karin, and Miranda.
For those willing to venture further afield, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery (https://www.bombaysapphire.com/) at Laverstoke Mill is an unmissable destination. Located in a repurposed Victorian paper mill, the site features stunning intertwined glasshouses designed by Thomas Heatherwick. Here, you can explore the ten exotic botanicals—from Moroccan cubeb berries to Chinese liquorice—that are vapor-infused to create their signature bright, clean profile.
No gin pilgrimage is complete without honoring Plymouth Gin (https://www.plymouthdistillery.com/). While technically located in the historic Barbican district of Plymouth, it is easily accessible from London via a scenic train journey. Hosted in the Black Friars Distillery—the oldest working distillery in England—this spirit has been the standard for the British Royal Navy for centuries. Its smoother, slightly sweeter profile distinguishes it from the sharper London Dry, a nuance best appreciated in their Refectory Bar, which dates back to the 1400s.
The Art of the Perfect G&T
The Glassware: The traditional highball is being replaced by the "Copa de Balon," a large balloon glass that traps the aromas of the botanicals.
The Garnish: Moving beyond the simple lemon slice, London bars now use "expressive" garnishes like peppercorns, sprigs of rosemary, or dehydrated grapefruit to complement specific gin profiles.
The Tonic: The ratio is vital; a true London pour usually favors 1 part gin to 2 or 3 parts premium tonic water to ensure the spirit isn't drowned.
Planning Your Journey with Turnstile Travel
Navigating the transport between London’s urban distilleries and the rural estates of Hampshire can be complex. Professional logistics ensure you can enjoy the tastings without worrying about the return commute. Turnstile Travel emphasizes a relaxed pace for drinks enthusiasts, focusing on the story of the liquid rather than just the destination.
Whether you are captivated by the industrial history of a 10th-century mill or the family legacy of a 150-year-old recipe, London in July offers a vibrant, aromatic experience. Our itineraries are designed to go beyond the label, offering a deep dive into the craft of the world’s most versatile spirit.
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FAQs: Your London Gin Experience Explained
What is the best time to visit London for distillery tours? July offers the best weather for enjoying gin gardens!
Is there a dress code for distillery visits? Most are casual, but because they are working production sites, closed-toe shoes are often required for safety in the still rooms.
What is the difference between London Dry and Plymouth Gin? London Dry must have all flavors added during distillation and is typically very juniper-forward. Plymouth Gin is slightly earthier and can only be produced in Plymouth.
Is transport included in Turnstile Travel tours? Yes. We provide professional chauffeur service in Mercedes V-Class vans for all our tours. This ensures safety and comfort for our micro-groups.
How large are the tour groups? Turnstile Travel strictly limits groups to 12 guests to ensure an intimate experience at every stop.
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