Distill a bottle of gin on mini copper stills

Exploring the Art of Gin Making in Edinburgh: A Hands-On Workshop

If you’re into gin—or even just curious about how this popular spirit is crafted—this distill your own gin experience in Edinburgh offers a unique and memorable way to dive into the world of botanicals and distillation. The workshop is hosted in a micro distillery, and for about three hours, you’ll get a chance to learn, taste, and even create your own bottle of gin to take home.

What sets this experience apart? First, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable hosts ensures you’re not just watching but actively participating. Second, the opportunity to craft a bespoke gin recipe tailored to your taste preferences makes this feel more like a fun experiment than a typical tour. On the flip side, it’s a small, intimate experience, which might not appeal if you’re looking for something more lively or large-scale. Still, if you enjoy hands-on activities and learning craft skills, this tour is a winner. It’s especially ideal for curious travelers who love a bit of DIY, spirits enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a unique souvenir from Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: You’ll develop and distill your own gin with hands-on guidance.
• Expert-led learning: The hosts are knowledgeable and keep the atmosphere fun and engaging.
• Tasting opportunities: Sample various botanicals and gin types to inform your recipe.
• Memorable keepsake: Walk away with a 500ml bottle of your very own gin, labeled and sealed.
• Small group setting: With a maximum of 3 travelers, expect lots of individual attention.
• Value for money: At just over $117, you get a substantial, personalized experience that results in a tangible souvenir.

What a Typical Session Looks Like

Walking into the workshop, you’re welcomed into a cozy, bespoke micro distillery room—think intimate and inviting. You’ll start with a gin and tonic on arrival, setting the tone for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The host will give a quick rundown of what’s to come, putting everyone at ease.

Next, you’ll get to taste three different gin samples—each with varying botanicals and flavors. This part is both educational and fun, as you start to understand what flavors you prefer and what makes each gin unique. Several reviews mention how engaging and clear the guide is, with comments like: “Neil was an excellent and entertaining guide,” and “Neil explained the intricacies so well and still allowed individual interpretation.” This suggests that the hosts are pros at balancing technical info with a fun vibe.

Then comes the creative part: designing your own bespoke gin recipe. You choose from a selection of botanical ingredients, guided by the instructor’s expertise. This step is where your preferences really come into play. We loved the way one reviewer described it: “Neil’s help and guidance in creating my own was top notch.” It’s a chance to experiment with flavors, and the host’s support makes it accessible even if you’re a beginner.

Crafting Your Own Gin

Once your recipe is finalized, it’s time to distill. Using a mini copper still, you’ll personally produce approximately 500ml of gin. The process is surprisingly straightforward, which many reviewers found pleasantly surprising. One reviewer said, “Learning how easy it is” to distill gin, making the experience rewarding and not overly complicated.

While your gin is distilling, you’ll enjoy a cocktail, giving you a chance to relax and chat about your creation. This is a nice touch that breaks up the technical process and keeps the mood lively. When your gin is ready, you’ll taste your freshly distilled spirit, then bottle, label, name, and wax-seal it—all part of the fun and the customization.

Many guests have highlighted how special this moment is: “Walk away with a bespoke bottle of gin,” which makes this feel more like a creative workshop than just a tour. You’ll have a tangible, personal souvenir that encapsulates your experience and flavor preferences.

The Small Group Advantage

One of the most praised features is the small group size, capped at three travelers. This setup guarantees a lot of one-on-one attention, making the learning experience more personalized. As one reviewer notes, “The small size of the group just added to the fun,” which suggests a friendly, less rushed environment.

This intimacy also means you’re more likely to ask questions, participate fully, and get the most out of the guidance offered. It’s perfect for those who prefer quality over quantity, especially if you’re serious about understanding the nuances of gin-making.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing for this experience is around $117.05 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider that it includes tasting, expert guidance, hands-on distillation, and a personalized bottle of gin, it offers good value. It’s a memorable activity that combines education, craftsmanship, and fun—rarely available in typical tour settings.

The tour lasts about three hours, fitting nicely into a relaxed afternoon. It begins at 12:00 pm at The Cumberland Bar and finishes back at the same spot, making it convenient for those staying in central Edinburgh. The mobile ticket feature means you can easily access your reservation on the go, and the tour is near public transportation, simplifying logistics.

Real Guest Experiences

Guests rave about the guide Neil, with one calling him “an absolute legend,” and describing the experience as “the best part of our holiday.” The reviews highlight that the instructor not only shares knowledge but also keeps the atmosphere lively, humorous, and approachable. Many mention how surprised they were by how simple and accessible the process was—reality that’s echoed in the comment: “Learning how easy it is to distill your own gin”.

Others are delighted with their personalized bottles, calling them “great souvenirs” or “a huge pride,” which shows that this isn’t just a fun activity but also results in a real keepsake. The positive comments about the fun, educational approach, and the opportunity to craft something unique, make it clear why this experience is highly recommended.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits spirits lovers, DIY enthusiasts, and those curious about gin. It’s ideal if you enjoy small-group experiences, personalized activities, or want a tangible memory from your trip. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates learning by doing, this will be both fun and meaningful. However, if you prefer large, bustling tours or are looking for a quick sightseeing stop without much hands-on involvement, this might not be your best fit.

It’s also worth noting that this experience isn’t specifically geared toward children, but the workshop’s focus on distillation and tasting makes it more suitable for adults or older teens interested in spirits.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a truly interactive, memorable activity in Edinburgh, this gin-making workshop offers a fantastic balance of education, creativity, and fun. You’ll gain insight into the world of gin, craft a recipe tailored to your taste, and walk away with a personalized bottle—something you’re unlikely to find in standard tours.

The small group size and engaging guides make it an intimate experience, perfect for those who love hands-on activities and want a unique souvenir from their trip. While it’s not the cheapest activity, the value lies in the personal touch, expert guidance, and the lasting memory of creating your own spirit.

This experience appeals most to curious travelers, spirits enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates engaging, quality experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing. It’s a creative, fun way to spend a few hours in Edinburgh—one that you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the process is designed to be accessible, and guides walk you through each step. Many reviews mention how simple and enjoyable they found the distillation process.

How long does the workshop last?
The experience takes approximately three hours, starting at noon and ending back at the meeting point.

Can I take my own bottle of gin home?
Absolutely. You’ll bottle, label, and wax-seal your own 500ml (50cl) bottle to take home as a souvenir.

What is included in the price?
You get a welcome gin and tonic, tasting of different botanicals, guidance on creating your recipe, distillation to produce your gin, a cocktail during the process, and your personalized bottle of gin.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point at The Cumberland Bar is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is three travelers, which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if needed.

If you’re after an authentic, hands-on experience that results in a very personal souvenir, this gin distillation workshop in Edinburgh could be just what you’re looking for. It’s educational, fun, and a bit indulgent—a real highlight for spirits lovers or anyone eager to try something different during their trip.