Cambridge Distillery Travel Guide

The Cambridge Distillery, located at 20-22 High Street in the charming village of Grantchester, stands as a beacon of modern gin craftsmanship. Founded by Master Distiller William Lowe and his partner Lucy, it has earned worldwide acclaim for its innovative distillation techniques that push beyond traditional methods. The distillery’s ethos revolves around blending the heritage of English gin with cutting-edge science, producing spirits that are both classic and groundbreaking.

Visitors can engage deeply with the distillery’s craft through its popular "Make-It" classes held weekly on Saturdays and other sessions at the Cambridge Gin Laboratory in central Cambridge. These hands-on workshops guide participants through the selection of botanicals sourced from the surrounding meadows and beyond, teaching them to blend and bottle their own unique gin. Attendees receive a Cambridge Dry Gin and tonic on arrival and leave with a double measure of their creation, which can be purchased as a 50cl bottle and reordered anytime.

Grantchester’s idyllic countryside setting provides more than just a scenic backdrop; it serves as a living botanical pantry. The distillery draws inspiration and ingredients from the local flora, including fruits, blossoms, and flowers that infuse their gins with distinctive character. This connection to nature is central to the distillery’s identity, ensuring each batch reflects the changing seasons and the English landscape.

Beyond the Make-It sessions, the Cambridge Distillery offers a variety of tasting classes and mixology workshops at both the Grantchester site and the Cambridge Gin Laboratory. These include guided tastings of their award-winning gins, molecular cocktail making, and prestige gin explorations. The atmosphere is welcoming and educational, with knowledgeable hosts who share the history, science, and art behind each spirit.

The distillery fosters a community of gin lovers and creators, offering private hire options for special occasions and a well-curated shop where visitors can purchase exclusive blends. Its commitment to quality and innovation has earned it accolades and a loyal following, making it a must-visit destination for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Open daily from 11am to 5pm, the distillery is easily accessible and offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of Cambridge city. The combination of rustic charm, modern design, and the sensory experience of botanicals and spirits creates an inviting ambience. Visitors are encouraged to savor the process and enjoy the unique flavors that define the Cambridge Distillery’s exceptional gins.