Ever wonder what sorts of whimsical alchemy goes into making some of the world’s most popular spirits? Well, if you’re reading this, we suppose you do. Join us as we embark on a spirited journey to two world-class distilleries in the United Kingdom where time-honoured traditions and contemporary innovations distil into storied sips for passionate imbibers around the world.
And no, it won’t be one of those stale visits to a dusty old factory. Our curation promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience across the rolling hills of Scotland and into one of the world’s most beautiful distilleries. Whether you’re a budding spirits enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur, these distillery tours guarantee an exclusive insider look into what goes on behind the scenes and into our glasses.
Love gin? Tick the world’s most beautiful distillery off your bucket list
The Bombay Sapphire is iconic for its sapphire blue crystal bottle but it also contends to be one of the world’s most beautiful distilleries open to the public. Opened in 2014, the pristine grounds of the Laverstoke Mill in Hampshire, England, is just an hour’s car ride away from London. From the comprehensive Laverstoke Mill tour and cocktail masterclasses to even a boozy cinema experience, there are a variety of tours tailored to each guest’s desired experience.
Boasting two hectares, the property houses all facilities required to produce the signature gin, an in-house cinema, and a visitor experience centre. Though it is the interconnected glasshouse designed by Thomas Heatherwick – known for his signature curves applied on the stunning Olympic Cauldron and new London buses – that captures everyone's attention. And don’t just stop and stare, visitors are invited into the adjacent botanical dry room to breathe in the scents of all ten botanicals.
Just remember that your experience isn’t complete until you’ve had a gin and tonic. So make a pitstop at the bar where all the magic happens.
RECOMMENDS Take on the Premier Cru experience. Go behind the scenes and witness the extraordinary lengths it takes to produce the high-quality small-batch gin with Murcian lemons. The dedicated brand ambassadors will take you on an exclusive experience that very few get to see: access to the India House where all distilling action happens around the giant copper stills, a tapas-style lunch of British favourites to line your tummies, gin tasting session in the posh Blue Room, cocktail-making masterclasses, and finally, a personalised bottle of Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru engraved with your message of choice.
Where to stay?
Pan Pacific London. Opened back in 2021, the renowned luxury hotel brings fine Singaporean hospitality to the trendy district of Shoreditch – an hour's drive back into the city of London from the distillery. Sleek yet understated, each room is made up of light neutral tones combining white and bone while champagne gold fixtures and watercolour botanical tapestry give it a bit of contrast and character. The floor-to-ceiling windows also allow plenty of natural light into the space as well as generous views of the stunning London city skyline.
The same generosity extends to the monochrome-tiled bathroom that boasts ample space for both an alluring marble bathtub and a rainfall shower area. It comes lavished with a Dyson hairdryer alongside luxury bath products from Diptyque and various vanity kits. Even the bathrobes and slippers are ultra comfy, perfect for those heading for a soak in the heated infinity pool or the wellness spa.
And if you're missing Singaporean flavours, make a beeline to Straits Kitchen for true-to-style signatures such as the heavenly Hainanese chicken rice, moreish Nyonya lobster laksa, and the humble crispy pork belly. Thereafter, swing by Ginger Lily and wash it all down with Singaporean-inspired tipples or the iconic Singapore Sling.
The White Hart Overton. Or enjoy some quiet downtime away from bustling London city with an overnight at the charming English countryside of Hampshire – just a five-minute drive away from the Bombay Sapphire Distillery. The historic inn offers spacious en-suite bedrooms that are fitted with modern amenities to ensure that you remain connected. It also houses a proper English pub that is favoured by locals for its extensive breakfast and brunch menu.
For dinner, the kitchen whips up modern pub favourites that use fresh locally-sourced produce that are in season. And if you fancy a wee bit of sun, head out to the garden patio for some tea or take a short stroll along the stunning little meadow that is only a stone’s throw away.
Love Scotch whisky? Head up to the Scottish Highlands for a proper dram
Your visit to Whisky Country won’t be complete without a trip to Dewar’s Aberfeldy distillery. Built in 1898, the legendary distillery sits deep in the heart of Highland Perthshire, on the outskirts of the village of Aberfeldy.
Today, while still a working distillery, it is also a whisky enthusiasts’ playground with tons to do and of course, imbibe. From all-inclusive distillery tours to creating your own whisky blends with a master blender, there are many ways to fully enjoy and appreciate the distinctive honeyed richness of the Aberfeldy spirit.
Take a trip down memory lane at the award-winning Heritage Museum where you’ll find personal anecdotes from the Dewar family and even the ultra-rare first-release bottles. Next, immerse yourselves in the sights, scents and sounds of whisky making as you walk the grounds of the production facility. The experience peaks at the interactive guided tasting session where you can savour blended whiskies with the option to taste straight from the cask.
There's truly nothing like sipping on fine scotch while walking the historic grounds of the Scottish Highlands.
RECOMMENDS Don’t waste the picturesque drive up and definitely stick around to take in all the highlands have to offer. Try canoeing along the gold-rich waters of the Pitilie Burn, a natural water source that runs past the meandering River Tay, which is also used to make the Aberfeldy whisky. Or hop onto a 4x4 Land Rover with a kilted safari ranger and go on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that includes jaw-dropping views of stunning landscapes, natural wildlife and engaging stories of local folklore.
Where to stay?
The Townhouse Aberfeldy. The family-owned and run accommodation was recently refurbished in 2015 since it was first built back in the late 1890s. Mixing contemporary comforts with true Scottish heritage, the spacious en-suite bedrooms are clean, comfortable and cosy. Besides the warm Scottish hospitality, we find that waking up to the inimitable Perthshire scenery and its misty surrounding hills is definitely the highlight of the stay.
Plus its central location, a five-minute drive from Dewar’s Aberfeldy distillery, makes it an ideal base for exploring the vicinity. And don’t plan on skipping out on having breakfast as the Townhouse Aberfeldy plate up a mean English breakfast.
