Sheffield: Gin Experience – Make Your Own Gin

Planning a trip to Sheffield and looking for something a little different? If you’re into spirits and artisanal drinks, this gin-making experience at Locksley Distilling offers a fun, interactive way to spend a few hours. It’s a neat combination of learning, tasting, and creating, all set in a historic part of Sheffield.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and engaging it is. The guided tour offers a behind-the-scenes peek into how craft gin is made, and the chance to make your own personal bottle is pretty special. Plus, the setting is charming—the historic Portland Works building is not just pretty but meaningful, being the birthplace of stainless steel.

One thing to keep in mind: this activity is limited to adults (18+), so it’s not suitable for families with kids. Also, at 2.5 hours, it’s a relatively short experience, but packed with enough info and fun to feel worthwhile. If you’re curious about gin, enjoy hands-on activities, or simply want a memorable, drinkable souvenir, this tour should suit you well.

This experience is particularly good if you appreciate artisanal drinks, want a taste of Sheffield’s craft scene, or are simply looking for a unique activity with a personal touch. Now, let’s get into what makes this tour tick and whether it’s the right fit for you.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: You’ll actually create your own gin using over 100 botanicals, which is a real highlight.
• Educational tour: Includes an insightful guided visit of the distillery, with details on the production process and history.
• Tastings included: Enjoy a selection of gins and tonics, including their signature “Sunshine in a Glass.”
• Small group size: Limited to just 8 participants, which means plenty of personal attention.
• Historic setting: Located in Portland Works, a Grade 2* listed building with a fascinating industrial past.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sheffield Gin Experience

If you’re like us, you probably appreciate experiences that combine education with a bit of fun—this one hits that sweet spot. The Locksley Distilling Co. welcomes you into their small but dedicated distillery in the heart of Sheffield, right in Portland Works. This historic building, dating back to 1879 and known as the birthplace of stainless steel, offers a tactile connection to Sheffield’s industrial past. It’s a cool venue that adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour kicks off with an intimate guided visit of the distillery. The team shares their passion for crafting gin and gives a detailed look into their process, emphasizing their commitment to keeping all elements of production in-house. You’ll learn about the history of Locksley Distilling, their ethos, and aspirations—giving you a sense of pride in the local craft scene.

As part of the tour, you’ll taste a curated selection of their gins, including the “Sunshine in a Glass” tonic. The guided tasting session not only introduces you to their products but also dives into the stories behind the botanicals and the artistic choices that shape each bottle. For anyone interested in the nuances of gin production or flavor profiles, this part will be quite satisfying.

Making Your Own Gin

The real highlight? You get to make your own gin. At the gin school, you’ll use over 100 botanicals to craft a unique recipe. Whether you prefer your gin juniper-heavy, citrus-forward, or infused with something more exotic, this hands-on part is where the experience shines. The staff guide you through choosing your botanicals and distilling your creation into a full 70cl bottle you can take home.

It’s worth noting that this part isn’t just about bottling; it’s about understanding the art and science behind gin-making. We loved the way the instructors explained the botanicals’ origin, their stories, and how each element impacts flavor. One reviewer raved, “Fabulously fun, informative activity. Highly recommend,” which captures the vibe well.

The Setting and Duration

The entire session lasts around 2.5 hours, a perfect length for an afternoon activity. The small group size (up to 8 people) enhances the experience, making it more personal and interactive. You won’t feel rushed, and there’s plenty of room for questions and hands-on involvement.

While the price is $127.96 per person, it’s a fair cost considering the inclusion of a guided tour, tastings, and your own bottled gin. Think of it as an experience that’s both educational and memorable—plus, you leave with a genuine product to show off.

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Considerations and Practical Info

This activity is best suited for adults with an interest in spirits, craft, or culinary creativity. It’s not suitable for children under 18, so if you’re traveling with family, this one’s more of a grown-up treat.

You can reserve your spot with flexibility—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. The availability varies, so it’s worth checking ahead for your preferred date and time.

What Reviewers Say

The feedback has been extremely positive. Darcey, for example, called it “fabulously fun, informative,” adding that it’s highly recommended. That kind of endorsement suggests most participants walk away feeling they’ve learned something new and enjoyed themselves. The small group format and the passion of the staff seem to be a recurring theme in the reviews.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re a fan of craft spirits, enjoy learning through doing, or want a unique souvenir from Sheffield, this gin experience ticks several boxes. It’s not just a tasting; it’s an opportunity to get hands-on and see the craft behind one of the UK’s favorite spirits. Plus, discovering the historic Portland Works location adds a layer of cultural interest.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger group tours, this might feel a bit exclusive or pricier. Also, if you have dietary restrictions or dislike gin, this activity obviously wouldn’t be suitable. But for those who love a good story, a bit of hands-on fun, and a tasty reward at the end, this could be a highlight of your Sheffield visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s only for participants aged 18 and over due to the nature of alcohol production and tasting.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long does the experience last?
The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, giving enough time to explore, learn, and create without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided distillery tour, tastings of various gins and tonics, the history and ethos of Locksley Distilling, and your own 70cl bottle of gin.

Is there a minimum group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 8 people, which allows for more interaction and personalized attention.

Could I do this as part of a larger Sheffield trip?
Absolutely. It pairs well with other cultural or outdoor activities in Sheffield, making for a well-rounded day.

Final Thoughts

This Sheffield gin-making experience offers a compelling mix of education, hands-on fun, and local flavor. It’s ideal for spirits enthusiasts, those interested in artisanal drinks, or travelers seeking a memorable activity that goes beyond the usual. The intimate setting and passionate staff make it feel special, and the chance to craft your own bottle is a memorable takeaway.

While it’s not a cheap activity, the value lies in the quality of the experience and the souvenir you’ll take home. It’s worth considering if you enjoy learning about craft production, want to support local artisans, or simply love a good gin.

For anyone wanting a taste of Sheffield’s craft scene that’s both fun and informative, this tour is definitely worth a look. Just remember to book ahead, as small groups fill up quickly—and it’s easy to see why. Cheers to a memorable day in Sheffield!

You can check availability for your dates here: