Set out on a captivating journey through the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery, where the brand’s rich history and meticulous craftsmanship come to life. Explore the climate-controlled botanical greenhouses, learn about the sensory experience of the 10 distinctive botanicals, and explore the artistry behind the iconic gin. The tour culminates with a delightful cocktail at the Mill Bar, allowing you to savor the heritage and expertise that has made Bombay Sapphire a beloved spirit. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply curious, this experience promises to stimulate your senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of distillation.
Just The Basics
- Explore the historic Laverstoke Mill, home to the Bombay Sapphire distillery, and learn about the craftsmanship behind their 10 botanical ingredients.
- Discover the diversity and complexity of the botanicals through immersive greenhouse tours and guided tastings.
- Explore the rich history of Bombay Sapphire gin, tracing its origins back to 1761 and the founding of Thomas Dakin’s distillery.
- Choose between guided and self-guided tour options, both culminating in a complimentary cocktail at the charming Mill Bar.
- Observe the expert distillers in action at the Dakin Still House and appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship behind the signature Bombay Sapphire gin.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Distillery Tour
The Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery tour typically begins with a visit to the historic Laverstoke Mill, a former paper mill dating back to the 10th century that now houses the distillery.
During the tour, guests can explore the distillery itself, as well as the greenhouses where the 10 botanical ingredients used in Bombay Sapphire gin are grown. Visitors can sample these botanicals and learn about the history and production process of the iconic gin.
The tour concludes with a cocktail served at the Mill Bar, allowing guests to savor the flavors they’ve just discovered. Whether opting for a guided or self-guided experience, the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery tour offers a unique and immersive look into the world of this beloved spirit.
Exploring the Botanical Greenhouses
After exploring the historic Laverstoke Mill and the distillery itself, visitors can step into the greenhouses to discover the 10 botanical ingredients that give Bombay Sapphire gin its unique flavor profile.
Here, guests wander through climate-controlled environments, each housing a different botanical, from fragrant juniper berries to exotic spices like cubeb and grains of paradise.
They can examine the plants up close, take in their aromas, and learn about how each ingredient contributes to the overall taste of the gin.
It’s an immersive and educational experience that gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into creating this iconic spirit.
Tasting the Botanical Ingredients
Visitors’ next step on the tour involves tasting the 10 botanical ingredients that lend Bombay Sapphire gin its signature flavor profile.
As they move through the greenhouses, knowledgeable guides invite them to rub the plants between their fingers, release the aromas, and savor the flavors of each individual botanical – from the piney notes of juniper to the warm, peppery kick of cubeb berries.
Guests can’t help but be captivated as they discover the complexity and diversity of the botanicals that go into creating the gin’s distinctive taste.
It’s an interactive, sensory experience that leaves them with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle of Bombay Sapphire.
History of Bombay Sapphire Gin
Bombay Sapphire gin’s origins trace back to 1761 when founder Thomas Dakin began distilling gin in Warrington, England. Over the decades, the brand evolved, eventually becoming one of the world’s most recognized and iconic gin labels.
In the early 20th century, Bombay Sapphire was created to honor the legendary Sapphire Room in the Taj Mahal Palace hotel in India. Today, the gin is known for its unique blend of 10 botanicals, including juniper, lemon peel, coriander, and cubeb berries.
The Bombay Sapphire Distillery, located in Laverstoke Mill, offers visitors a chance to explore the brand’s storied history and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this beloved spirit.
Guided Vs. Self-Guided Tour Options
The Bombay Sapphire Distillery offers visitors a choice between guided and self-guided tours, each providing a unique experience to explore the gin’s history and production.
The guided tour is led by knowledgeable staff who share insights into the distilling process and the 10 botanicals used to create Bombay Sapphire’s signature flavor. Guests can sample these botanicals and learn about their origins.
Alternatively, the self-guided tour allows visitors to explore the distillery at their own pace, wandering through the greenhouses and exhibits at their leisure.
Both options culminate in a complimentary cocktail, allowing guests to savor the end result of Bombay Sapphire’s meticulous craftsmanship.
The Dakin Still House Experience
After exploring the greenhouses and sampling the botanicals, guests make their way to the Dakin Still House, the heart of the Bombay Sapphire distillery.
Here, they get an up-close look at the impressive Dakin copper stills, each standing over 13 feet tall and playing a crucial role in the gin’s distillation process. Visitors can observe the expert distillers at work, carefully controlling the temperature and pressure to extract the perfect blend of the 10 botanicals.
The Dakin Still House tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating the signature Bombay Sapphire gin. It’s a highlight of the distillery experience not to be missed.
Cocktail at the Mill Bar
Guests cap off the distillery tour with a refreshing cocktail at the Mill Bar, where they can savor the Bombay Sapphire gin they just learned about.
The bar’s skilled mixologists whip up classic gin-based cocktails, showcasing the botanical flavors of the spirit. Visitors can sip on a crisp gin and tonic, a zesty Bombay Bramble, or a sophisticated Negroni as they take in the historic mill setting.
It’s the perfect way to conclude the experience, allowing guests to appreciate the artistry and heritage behind their favorite gin. With its elegant decor and cozy ambiance, the Mill Bar provides a delightful finale to the Bombay Sapphire distillery tour.
Tour Logistics and Accessibility
Visitors can access the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery via its convenient location in Laverstoke Mill, which dates back to the 10th century. The distillery offers both guided and self-guided tour options, allowing flexibility for guests. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility ensures the experience is inclusive for all. While the venue is cashless, card and contactless payments are accepted. To ensure an enjoyable visit, tour group sizes are capped at a maximum of 4 travelers.
| Accessibility | Payment |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Accessible | Card Payments |
| Stroller Accessible | Contactless Payments |
| Maximum 4 Travelers per Tour | Cashless Venue |
| Guided and Self-Guided Tours | – |
| Historic Laverstoke Mill Location | – |
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?
The minimum group size for the tour is 1 traveler. The tour information states that the maximum group size is 4 travelers per tour, so the minimum group size must be 1 traveler.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, guests can’t bring their own food or drinks to the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery. The venue is cashless, and only allows card/contactless payments. Visitors can enjoy the tour, greenhouse, and a cocktail provided as part of the experience.
Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to check with staff for any specific guidelines or restrictions on the day of the visit.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Typically Take?
The entire tour experience typically takes around 2 hours to complete. Visitors can explore the distillery, greenhouses, and Dakin Still House, then enjoy a cocktail at the end of the tour.
Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Clothing Requirements?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and walking involved. Comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- From London: Stonehenge & the Stone Circles of Avebury
- Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace, Buckingham Palace
- Love London Bike Tour
- Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour
- Camden Pub Crawl in London
- The Original London Street Art Tour
- The London Landmarks. Morning Tour
- Tina Turner Theater Show Tickets
- Jack the Ripper Walking Tour With Expert Ripperologist
- Afternoon Jack the Ripper Tour With Ripper-Vision in London
- The Best in Stand up Comedy – Comedy Shows Every Night of the Week
- Les Miserables Theater Show London
- River Thames Fast RIB-Speedboat Experience in London
- Early Access Tower of London Tour With Opening Ceremony & Cruise
- Tickets to Phantom of the Opera Theater Show in London
Final Words
The Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Tour offers a captivating experience that transports visitors on a journey through the brand’s rich history and meticulous craftsmanship.
From exploring the botanical greenhouses to savoring a delightful cocktail at the Mill Bar, guests can enjoy the artistry and heritage behind the iconic gin.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, this tour is a must-visit.
