Beefeater Gin Distillery Tour

London's last working gin distillery opens its doors where James Burrough's 1863 recipe still guides production today. Victorian copper stills gleam in Kennington's historic stillhouse, transforming nine botanicals into the world's most exported premium gin—a living piece of London's spirited history that visitors can taste.

From Botanicals to Bottle

Tours reveal gin's scandalous past during the 18th-century "Gin Craze" before diving into modern craft. Watch master distillers steep juniper, coriander, and secret citrus peels for 24 hours before distillation begins. Those century-old copper pot stills, named after British royalty, work their magic in small batches.

Interactive botanical discovery lets you smell and taste individual ingredients—understanding how Seville orange peel adds brightness while angelica root provides earthy depth. The stillhouse maintains perfect temperatures as alcohol vapors rise through copper, condensing into the clear spirit that defines London Dry style.

The Perfect Pour

Expert bartenders demonstrate proper G&T construction in the sleek tasting room—ice first, gin poured over spoon's back, premium tonic added gently. Your included cocktail showcases Beefeater's versatility beyond the classic serve, perhaps in a bee's knees or martini.

The shop stocks distillery exclusives including limited editions and gin-making botanicals. Book ahead—tours run hourly but fill quickly. The experience lasts 90 minutes, perfectly timed before exploring nearby Kennington's gastropubs. Closest tube: Oval or Vauxhall.