The Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour is a captivating journey through the heart of gin craftsmanship, nestled in the serene landscapes of rural Hampshire. The immersive Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour offers visitors an opportunity to delve into the rich history, intricate processes, and unique botanical wonders that have made Bombay Sapphire one of the world’s most renowned gin brands.
Bombay Sapphire Gin is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which is achieved by infusing the gin with ten exotic botanicals. These botanicals are sourced from all over the world and include juniper berries, coriander, angelica root, orris root, liquorice, cassia bark, almond, lemon peel, cubeb berries, and grains of paradise.
Getting to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour
Located on London Road, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is easily accessible from central London and beyond. The distillery’s weekday opening and extended hours on weekends and bank holidays accommodate various schedules. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the British Pullman offers an opulent day trip package that includes the distillery tour along with a sumptuous meal.
By Road
The distillery is located in Whitchurch, Hampshire, and is easily accessible by car. Visitors can use the postcode RG28 7NR to find the distillery. There is ample parking available on-site, and the parking fee is included in the ticket price.
By Rail
The closest train stations to the distillery are Overton or Whitchurch, which are serviced by trains originating from London Waterloo and Salisbury. Visitors can take a train to either station and then take a taxi or a bus to the distillery.
By Bus
There are several bus routes that pass by the distillery, making it a convenient option for visitors who prefer public transportation. Visitors can plan their journey and find out how to reach the distillery by bus on the official website.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Tickets must be bought in advance, and visitors are encouraged to pre-book their tickets online to avoid disappointment. The distillery is open Friday to Sunday every week, plus bank holidays and selected weekdays. Visitors can check the availability of tickets and experiences by searching for their preferred date on the official website.
Logistics and Practical Information
Visitors planning to embark on this enchanting journey should consider a few logistics. Sensible footwear is recommended, as the tour involves walking through different areas, and due to safety regulations, high heels and open-toed shoes are discouraged. Additionally, it’s important to note that the distillery is a card-only venue, ensuring a seamless experience for all guests.
Where to stay near the Bombay Distillery
If you’re planning a trip to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, there are several options nearby to suit different budgets and preferences.
One popular choice is the Watership Down Inn, located just a 10-minute walk from the distillery. This family-run country pub offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving locally-sourced food, and a bar with a wide selection of drinks. The inn is also conveniently located for exploring the surrounding countryside, with walking and cycling routes nearby.
For those looking for a more luxurious option, the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is a 25-minute drive from the distillery. This five-star hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, and several restaurants and bars. Guests can also enjoy activities such as horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, and tennis.
Another option is the Bel & The Dragon Hotel, situated in the picturesque town of Kingsclere, around 20 minutes’ drive from the distillery. This historic coaching inn has been beautifully restored and offers stylish rooms, a restaurant serving seasonal British cuisine, and a bar with an extensive wine list.
Alternatively, visitors can choose to stay in the nearby town of Whitchurch, which has several hotels and guesthouses to choose from. The White Hart Hotel is a popular choice, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving classic British dishes.
No matter what your budget or preferences, there are plenty of options for accommodation near the Bombay Sapphire Distillery.
Tours and Experiences
The Laverstoke mill also has its own incredible history going back to 1086 when it was under the ownership of William the Conquerer through the years when the British Empire was at its height. In the 18th C, the mill produced bank notes for the Bank of England.
In 1761, Thomas Dakin began producing his world-famous gin using his own process that became known as Vapor Infusion and which is still used to this day!
Discovery Experience: A Gateway to Botanical Delights
One of the most popular tours is the Discovery Experience, which takes visitors on a guided tour of the distillery and provides an introduction to the history of Bombay Sapphire and the unique Vapour Infusion process used to make the gin. The tour includes a visit to the Botanical Dry Room, where visitors can learn about the different botanicals used to make the gin and smell the aromas of the botanicals. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary gin and tonic cocktail at the end of the tour.
One notable feature is the Heritage Room, where the legacy of Bombay Sapphire unfolds through the years of history, tracing back to the genius of Thomas Dakin. The guided tour of the Dakin Still House provides a comprehensive understanding of the rare vapour infusion distillation process, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the nuances that define the flavors of Bombay Sapphire gin.
Innovative Design and Architectural Marvels
The architectural brilliance of the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is awe-inspiring, a creation of Thomas Heatherwick’s vision brought to life. The unique atmosphere of the distillery emanates from the seamless fusion of heritage and modernity. The interactive gin masterclass, held in the cinema room, takes guests through the history of gin, showcasing the evolution of the spirit that has delighted gin lovers for centuries.
The design of the distillery experience is a major factor in its allure. The integration of the working distillery into the tour enables visitors to witness the gin-making process firsthand, offering a deep appreciation for the craft.
Botanical Gardens and Distillery Showcases
Nestled within the conservation area, the botanical gardens are a treat for the senses. This haven of botanical ingredients not only supplies the distillery but also provides a serene backdrop for the tour. The great experience is enhanced by the riverside location, as the Bombay Sapphire Distillery sits on the banks of the River Test, contributing to the sustainability of the distillery’s water usage.
Botanicals and Ingredients
One of the unique features of the Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour is the opportunity to explore the ten exotic botanicals that are infused into every drop of Bombay Sapphire Gin. The tour takes visitors through the Glasshouses, where they can see and smell the botanicals up close, and into the Botanical Dry Room, a sensory experience that helps uncover their flavor.
One of the key ingredients in Bombay Sapphire Gin is the water from the River Test, which flows through the distillery. The water is naturally filtered through layers of chalk and limestone, which gives it a unique mineral content that enhances the flavor of the gin.
Sensory and Creative Cocktail Experiences
The Bombay Sapphire Distillery offers an interactive Gin Cocktail Masterclass, perfect for those who want to learn the tricks of the bar trade and improve their bartending skills. The masterclass is an hour-long session where participants can create their own cocktails at home with the guidance of a mixologist.
During the session, participants will learn about the history and culture of cocktail making, as well as the different techniques and ingredients used in mixology. They will also learn how to create signature cocktails using Bombay Sapphire’s premium gin and their cocktail range.
The Mill Bar
The Mill Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone touring the Bombay Gin Distillery. Located in the heart of the distillery, The Mill Bar is open to all visitors, whether they are booked on an experience or not. Guests can purchase cocktails, or simply visit for a drink without booking onto an experience.
The bar has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a beautiful view of the River Test. It is the perfect place to unwind after a tour of the distillery or to enjoy a drink with friends or colleagues.
Shop and Online Store
The Bombay Sapphire Tour ensures a delightful visit with its thoughtful provisions. Complimentary gin engraving adds a personalized touch to the experience, making for a memorable souvenir. The on-site gift shop and the online shop offer an opportunity to take home a piece of the Bombay Sapphire legacy, from exquisite glassware to limited edition releases.
Why Lush Life loves it
Not only is it a gorgeous distillery, but it’s an easy day trip from London. Seeing Thomas Heatherwick’s glasshouses in person is worth the price of the ticket alone!