River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise

River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise: A Relaxed, Flavorful Ride Through Stratford-upon-Avon

When you’re planning a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, there’s no shortage of charming sights and rich stories. But if you’re after something a bit different that combines a relaxing cruise with a tasting of local spirits, the River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise might just be worth considering. We didn’t do it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a laid-back way to enjoy the river views and learn about craft gin production.

What we really like about this experience is how it pairs two simple pleasures — a scenic boat ride and a guided gin tasting — in a way that’s approachable and informal. Plus, the inclusion of a souvenir tumbler and a G&T at the end adds a nice touch of keepsake value. On the flip side, it’s a one-hour experience and isn’t suitable for under-18s, so it’s best for adults looking for a relaxed, educational outing rather than a family activity. Overall, if you’re a fan of gin or just enjoy a quiet cruise with a bit of local flavor, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The one-hour duration makes it a great break from longer tours or full-day activities.
• Local craftsmanship: The gin tasting features spirits from the award-winning Shakespeare Distillery, adding authenticity.
• Scenic views: You’ll see Stratford’s riverside sights like the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Holy Trinity Church.
• Informative guides: The tour includes a short talk on gin, making the tasting both fun and educational.
• Includes a G&T and souvenir: You’ll finish with a gin & tonic in a memorable tumbler to take home.
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reservation without immediate payment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise

This isn’t just a boat ride — it’s a curated experience that combines gentle sightseeing with a bit of spirit education. The meeting point is conveniently set on a grassy bank between the boathouse and the Tramway bridge, making it easy to find. Once aboard, you’re in for a 60-minute journey that takes you along the beautiful River Avon through Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic sights.

The Itinerary and Experience

The cruise begins at the specified meeting point, where you’ll board a boat partnered with Avon Boating, ready to take you along the river. The early part of the cruise features a short talk about gin, setting the scene for what’s to come. This isn’t a dry, lecture-style presentation—guides are known for their humor and friendliness, making the experience light-hearted and engaging. You’ll sample three gin spirits crafted by Shakespeare Distillery, learning about their production process, unique botanicals, and the story behind each bottle.

The guided tasting is the core of the experience. You’ll get to sample three different gin profiles—each offering a distinct taste of Stratford’s local distilling talent. These are served neat, giving you the chance to appreciate their complexity before the finale: a single 25ml G&T served in a souvenir tumbler. The G&T is a simple, classic way to round out the tasting, giving you a refreshing toast to the river and your hosts.

As the boat cruises upstream, you’ll enjoy sights like the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, with its modern silhouette contrasting against the historic skyline, and Holy Trinity Church, famous for Shakespeare’s burial. The route then passes under bridges and along the town’s scenic riverside, giving you plenty to gaze at. Once back at the starting point, you’ll leave with a memorable souvenir tumbler and hopefully some new knowledge about gin making.

The View and Atmosphere

The views along the River Avon are as charming as you’d hope — gentle ripples, historic buildings, and the soft sounds of water and conversation. The boat is designed for a relaxed atmosphere, not a party boat, which makes it perfect for those who prefer calm, intimate encounters over loud entertainment.

Guests often mention the stunning scenery and the friendly, informative guides. Multiple reviews highlight how fun and engaging the guides are, often blending humor with interesting facts about gin. This makes the tasting feel more like a friendly chat than a formal tasting session.

Price and Value

While the exact ticket price isn’t specified here, reviews note it as good value for money, especially considering it includes a guided gin tasting, a G&T, and a souvenir tumbler. For about an hour’s experience, the cost covers the unique combination of river views, education, and a local craft spirit. If you’re a gin enthusiast or someone who appreciates relaxing, scenic activities, it’s a reasonably priced way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for adults who enjoy craft spirits, scenic boat rides, or both. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a relaxed, low-key activity that offers a taste of Stratford’s local craftsmanship. It’s also perfect for couples celebrating an occasion like an anniversary or friends looking for a different way to experience the town.

If you’re traveling with someone who isn’t into gin or prefers more active or historical tours, this might not be their cup of tea. But for anyone who enjoys good conversation, local drinks, and gentle boat rides, it’s a charming choice.

Final Thoughts

The River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise offers a distinctive way to enjoy Stratford-upon-Avon’s riverside scenery while sampling some of the finest local gins. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the tasting both enjoyable and informative. The views along the river add a peaceful backdrop, making it a perfect short escape from the hustle and bustle of town.

If you’re interested in local spirits, want a relaxed experience that combines sightseeing and education, or simply wish to toast your trip in style, this cruise ticks quite a few boxes. It’s not a large-scale party, but rather an intimate, well-organized outing that highlights the craftsmanship and beauty of Stratford.

In short, this experience is best suited for curious adults looking for a taste of local gin and a peaceful cruise. It’s a solid choice if you value quality over quantity and want to add a touch of flavor to your stay in Stratford-upon-Avon.

FAQ About the River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is only for guests aged 18 and over, as it involves tasting alcohol.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable and relaxed activity.

What is included in the experience?
You’ll enjoy a guided tasting of three gin samples from Shakespeare Distillery, a 25ml G&T served in a souvenir tumbler, and scenic views of Stratford.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility when booking.

What are the meeting details?
The meeting point is on the grass bank between the boathouse and the pedestrian Tramway bridge, with coordinates 52.1907844543457, -1.700291633605957.

Are there specific times for the cruise?
Yes, the cruises typically take place at 4 pm and 6 pm on selected weekends, so check availability when booking.

What if I don’t like gin?
Since the main focus is tasting gin, this experience might not appeal if you’re not a fan of spirits. But if you’re curious, it’s a friendly, low-pressure way to learn about gin.

Is the boat accessible for all?
While not specifically detailed, the meeting point is on a grass bank, and accessibility may depend on individual mobility needs. It’s best to check directly with the provider if this is a concern.

Can I take the souvenir tumbler home?
Yes, the tumbler is yours to keep as a memento of the experience.

All in all, the River Avon Gin Tasting Cruise combines scenic views, local craftsmanship, and friendly guides into a cozy, enjoyable outing for adults in Stratford-upon-Avon. Whether you’re a gin lover or just looking for a relaxing way to see the river, it’s worth considering as part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: