Whisky Trails and Gin Journeys: Explore the UK’s Premier Distillery Tours
From the smoky malts of the Highlands to the botanical gins of London, the UK has firmly established itself as a global leader in the art of distillation. Whether you’re an experienced whisky connoisseur, a gin aficionado, or simply in search of a spirited addition to your travels, a tour of one of Britain’s distilleries offers a unique opportunity to savour local flavours—both culturally and gastronomically.
Across the UK, distillery tours interweave craftsmanship, storytelling, and tastings against scenic and often historic backdrops. Many are nestled in picturesque rural locations, from secluded glens to coastal villages, making them ideal stops on a self-directed adventure. At Great British Trips, we’ve assisted numerous travellers in discovering the UK’s liquid heritage through bespoke itineraries—here are some of the destinations that are truly worth raising a glass to.
Oban Distillery, Argyll
Why visit: Big flavour in a small setting—and an ideal urban tasting stop
Situated in its namesake harbour town, Oban Distillery offers an intimate, atmospheric whisky experience. The tour, though small, is rich in storytelling, with whisky flavours shaped by proximity to both sea and mountains.
Pair with: Seafood lunches on the pier, ferry excursions to Mull, or visits to nearby castles
Included in: Our Scotland’s West Coast Explorer
England: Gin Renaissance and Craft Whisky
While England has only recently begun large-scale whisky production, it has quickly gained a reputation for innovation. Concurrently, the English gin revival has spurred the emergence of numerous award-winning distilleries—from rural barns to urban centres.
Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Hampshire
Why visit: Stylish, sustainable, and visually stunning
Occupying a refurbished Victorian paper mill, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke Mill is a masterclass in branding and sustainability.
Highlights:
- The heritage centre and distillation hall
- Custom cocktails at the on-site bar
- Nearby walks along the River Test
Perfect for: A countryside stop on our Southern England Discovery Tour
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- The visitor centre’s museum-style exhibit
- Local hikes in the adjacent national park
Cotswolds Distillery, Stourton
Why visit: Award-winning gin and England’s inaugural premium single malt
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, this quietly revolutionary distillery produces both exceptional gins and a fruity, rich single malt.
Don’t miss:- A tasting flight in the on-site café
- Scenic walks in nearby villages
- Their seasonal cocktail workshops
Easily incorporated into: Our Heart of England Tour
The Lakes Distillery, Cumbria
Why visit: Poetic whisky and equally stunning views
Situated near Bassenthwaite Lake in the Lake District, this sleek, modern distillery crafts whisky, gin, and vodka—with an emphasis on local ingredients and natural inspiration.
Highlights:- The distillery restaurant with locally sourced menus
- Strolls along the lake shore
- Proximity to Wordsworth’s Grasmere
Part of: Our Northern England Discovery Tour
Wales and Northern Ireland: Small but Impressive
Wales and Northern Ireland both boast an increasing number of high-quality, boutique distilleries that blend innovation with deep regional pride.
Penderyn Distillery, South Wales
Why visit: Wales’ pioneering and most renowned whisky brand
Positioned on the edge of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), Penderyn has reintroduced Welsh whisky to the map. Their signature single malt, aged in bourbon and Madeira casks, offers a rich and approachable taste.
Echlinville Distillery, County Down
Why visit: A boutique distillery making significant strides in Irish spirits
One of Northern Ireland’s first licensed distilleries in over a century, Echlinville produces both whiskey and gin, emphasising locally grown barley and traditional field-to-glass methods. Located just outside Strangford Lough, the setting is tranquil and steeped in folklore.
Best included in: A tailored stop on our Northern Ireland Explorer route
Step Inside the Story
These homes are not just beautiful buildings—they are places where history unfolded. Where families rose and fell, where art was amassed and wars were strategised, where gardens were shaped over centuries, and where tradition still lingers in the air.
With Great British Trips, you can walk in the footsteps of aristocrats and artists, royalty and custodians, through the grand halls and private chambers of Britain’s country estates. Whether you’re a history buff, a Downton Abbey fan, or simply someone who appreciates a perfectly set tea table, there’s a stately home waiting for you.
Explore our UK heritage and countryside tours and start planning your own adventure into Britain’s most graceful past.