Hensol Castle Distillery: Craft Spirits in a Historic Welsh Castle
Explore Welsh heritage and craft spirits in the atmospheric cellars of the 17th-century Hensol Castle with immersive tours and tastings.
Nestled in the cellars of the 17th-century Hensol Castle near Pontyclun, the Hensol Castle Distillery offers a unique craft gin and rum experience. Visitors can enjoy guided tours exploring the history of the castle and gin, sensory botanical rooms with over 50 botanicals, and tasting sessions featuring award-winning Welsh spirits. The distillery also offers hands-on gin and rum making experiences, cocktail masterclasses, and a charming bar for relaxing with a G&T.
A brief summary to Hensol Castle Distillery
- Castle Cellars, Pontyclun, Hensol, CF72 8JX, GB
- +441443667999
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book the 90-minute gin tour in advance to secure your spot and enjoy a guided tasting of three unique gins.
- Try the gin or rum making experience for a hands-on opportunity to create and bottle your own bespoke spirit.
- Visit the sensory botanical room to fully appreciate the variety of botanicals that flavor the distillery’s spirits.
- Consider joining a cocktail masterclass for a fun and educational evening with expert mixologists.
- Allow time to relax in the Gin Bar after your tour to enjoy a classic G&T in a charming setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Pontyclun station from Cardiff Central or other regional hubs, with journeys typically lasting 20-30 minutes. From Pontyclun station, a taxi ride of about 10 minutes will bring you to Hensol Castle Distillery. Taxi fares range from £10 to £15.
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Car
Driving from Cardiff city center takes around 25-35 minutes via the M4 and A473. The distillery offers limited parking on site. Note that traffic can be heavier during weekends and events. Parking is free for visitors.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Pontyclun and nearby towns with stops within walking distance of Hensol Castle. Bus travel times vary from 30 to 50 minutes depending on starting point. Check local timetables for schedules. Buses are wheelchair accessible.
Hensol Castle Distillery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hensol Castle Distillery
A Historic Setting with a Modern Twist
Hensol Castle Distillery is uniquely situated within the atmospheric cellars of Hensol Castle, a grand 17th-century estate in the Vale of Glamorgan. The castle’s rich history provides a stunning backdrop for the distillery, blending centuries-old heritage with contemporary craft spirit production. This juxtaposition creates a distinctive visitor experience where tradition meets innovation in the heart of South Wales countryside.Immersive Gin and Rum Experiences
The distillery offers a variety of engaging experiences, including a 90-minute guided gin tour that delves into the origins of gin, the history of Hensol Castle, and the intricacies of the distilling process. A highlight is the sensory botanical room, where visitors can smell, touch, and taste over 50 botanicals used in crafting their spirits. For those seeking a deeper involvement, the gin and rum making experiences allow guests to create and bottle their own bespoke 70cl spirit, an unforgettable souvenir of their visit.Artisanal Craftsmanship and Award-Winning Spirits
At the heart of the distillery is a 400-litre copper still named Gerald, where small-batch Welsh gins and rums are carefully crafted. The distillery produces a range of premium spirits, including their signature Welsh Gin, Wild Strawberry & Hibiscus Gin, Blood Orange Gin, and Black Gin, made with muscat grapes and dark fruits. These award-winning products reflect a commitment to quality and a celebration of Welsh flavors.Atmosphere and Amenities
Visitors can unwind in the tastefully decorated Gin Bar, which pays homage to the copper stills and offers a welcoming space to enjoy a G&T after tours or masterclasses. The distillery also hosts cocktail masterclasses, perfect for groups or special occasions. The setting combines rustic charm with modern comfort, making it an inviting destination for both casual visitors and spirit enthusiasts.Events and Group Experiences
Hensol Castle Distillery caters to a variety of visitors, from solo travelers to groups celebrating special occasions. The distillery’s offerings include monthly cocktail masterclasses led by expert mixologists and bespoke group packages that can be combined with local heritage tours, such as the nearby Welsh Coal Mining Experience. This versatility enhances its appeal as a cultural and social hub in the region.Welsh Craft Distilling Legacy
Since opening its visitor experience in 2021, the distillery has become South Wales’ first full-scale gin distillery and bottling plant. It proudly showcases Welsh craftsmanship and the evolving story of gin and rum production in Wales. The distillery’s location within a historic castle adds a layer of narrative, connecting visitors to the region’s heritage while enjoying contemporary craft spirits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit the Vale
6.3 km
Explore the Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.
Queen Anne Square
13.1 km
Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.
Bute Park
13.2 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
River Cruises
13.2 km
Explore Cardiff's rich history and stunning architecture from the serenity of the water with unforgettable river cruises through the heart of the city.
Animal Wall
13.4 km
Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle
13.4 km
Explore Caerphilly Castle, the grand second largest castle in the UK, where history and architecture come alive in stunning Welsh landscapes.
Tommy Cooper Statue
13.4 km
Discover the joy of comedy at the Tommy Cooper Statue in Caerphilly, a charming tribute to the legendary Welsh comedian.
Cardiff Castle Museum
13.4 km
Explore Cardiff Castle Museum, a historic landmark that invites you to dive into the rich heritage of Wales with captivating exhibits and stunning architecture.
Wales National War Memorial
13.5 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Alexandra Gardens
13.5 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Principality Stadium
13.5 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Cardiff Castle
13.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cardiff Castle, a treasure in the heart of Wales that combines culture, beauty, and adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hensol Castle
0.1 km
Experience the grandeur of a historic Gothic Revival castle set in rolling Welsh countryside, perfect for weddings, events, and luxurious stays.
Vale of Glamorgan
2.8 km
Discover the Vale of Glamorgan’s stunning coastline, historic towns, and tranquil countryside just west of Cardiff.
Llantrisant Guildhall
4.4 km
Explore Llantrisant Guildhall, a historic Welsh landmark revealing centuries of local heritage and vibrant community spirit.
Billy Wynt
4.5 km
Explore the historical landmark Billy Wynt in Llantrisant, where stunning views and rich heritage await every visitor.
The Royal Mint Experience
5.8 km
Step inside the historic Royal Mint in Llantrisant to witness coin-making craft, explore centuries of heritage, and strike your own UK coin.
Cowbridge South Gate
7.0 km
Discover the charm and history of Cowbridge South Gate, a stunning landmark that embodies the rich heritage of this picturesque Welsh town.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
7.2 km
Explore Wales’s rich history through authentic buildings, crafts, and landscapes at St. Fagans, one of Europe’s premier open-air museums.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
7.3 km
Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.
Brynna Woods
7.3 km
A tranquil 38-hectare reserve blending ancient woodland, rare wildlife habitats, and coal mining heritage near Pontyclun, Wales.
St Fagans Castle
7.5 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history and culture at St Fagans Castle and its vast open-air museum set in stunning Cardiff parkland.
St Quentin's Castle
7.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of St Quentin's Castle, a medieval stone fortress perched above the Welsh countryside near Cowbridge.
Old Beaupre Castle
8.0 km
Discover Old Beaupre Castle, a hidden Tudor manor with stunning Renaissance architecture nestled in the tranquil Vale of Glamorgan countryside.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
8.1 km
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
The Garden Cafe
8.1 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
8.6 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant
0.6 km
Award-winning vineyard dining with seasonal Welsh cuisine, scenic vineyard views, and expert wine pairings in a charming countryside setting.
Llanerch Vineyard Hotel
0.6 km
Experience luxury and tranquility in Wales’ only vineyard hotel, where scenic beauty meets exquisite dining and elegant accommodations.
Miskin Arms
1.8 km
A cozy and quality-driven restaurant and bar in Pontyclun, serving fresh local meats and fish with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Castell Mynach
2.3 km
A cozy gastropub in Pontyclun offering hearty British dishes, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.
The White Lion
3.8 km
A vibrant Welsh country pub and hotel offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations in picturesque Ystradowen.
Harvester Llantrisant
4.0 km
Family-friendly bar & grill in Talbot Green Shopping Park serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Longbow Beefeater
4.7 km
Classic British bar and grill in Pontyclun offering hearty steaks, family-friendly dining, and a welcoming atmosphere all day long.
The Red Lion
5.3 km
A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.
Hare & Hounds
5.5 km
Rustic charm meets refined dining at Hare & Hounds, Aberthin’s beloved pub and restaurant with locally inspired, flavour-packed cuisine.
The Bush Inn
6.6 km
A charming Welsh country pub in Cowbridge offering hearty British fare, cosy atmosphere, and friendly service in a picturesque village setting.
The Barley Mow
7.2 km
A cozy Welsh pub in Graig Penllyn offering fresh local fare, seasonal ales, and a warm community atmosphere near Cowbridge.
The Fox at Penllyn
7.9 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub charm and hearty cuisine in the cozy countryside setting of The Fox at Penllyn near Cowbridge.
Harvester Old Mill Bridgend
7.9 km
A welcoming family-friendly British restaurant in Bridgend offering hearty meals, casual vibes, and attentive service for all ages.
Pantruthyn Farm Table Table
8.5 km
Family-friendly pub dining in a cosy farm setting offering classic British dishes, hearty roasts, and great value near Bridgend.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
8.8 km
A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Havard & Havard Antiques
6.7 km
Discover exquisite Welsh country furniture and unique antiques in the heart of Cowbridge at Havard & Havard Antiques.
Sovereign Antiques
6.7 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and rich history at Sovereign Antiques in Cowbridge, a must-visit for collectors and history enthusiasts.
West Hampton
6.8 km
Explore West Hampton, a charming gift shop in Cowbridge, offering unique Welsh souvenirs and handcrafted treasures for every traveler.
Colours of Cowbridge
6.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion with a personal touch in the heart of historic Cowbridge at Colours of Cowbridge boutique.
Square Spot
6.8 km
Discover curated fashion and local charm at Square Spot, Cowbridge’s boutique clothing destination on Eastgate.
Visage
6.8 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired smart casual fashion at Visage, Cowbridge’s boutique for unique ladies’ clothing beyond the high street.
E91
6.8 km
Explore E91 in Cowbridge for a unique clothing experience that blends local charm with stylish fashion options.
Minnie May Closet - Boutique
6.8 km
Discover curated fashion and personalized service at Minnie May Closet, a stylish boutique in the heart of historic Cowbridge.
The Vintage HQ
6.8 km
Discover sustainable vintage and designer fashion treasures with expert care at The Vintage HQ in Cowbridge.
WHSmith
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A welcoming High Street staple in Cowbridge offering books, stationery, local crafts, and everyday essentials with friendly service and convenient hours.
Your Ethical home
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Explore 'Your Ethical Home' in Cowbridge for sustainably crafted candles that fill your space with warmth and ethical charm.
The Original Welsh Candle Co
6.8 km
Discover luxury hand-poured Welsh soy candles that evoke the spirit and beauty of Wales at The Original Welsh Candle Co in Cowbridge.
Tallia Cowbridge
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Willow In White Bridal Co
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Cocoplum
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pipeworks Bar
2.6 km
A cozy micro bar in Pontyclun offering craft keg beers, ciders, and gins in a friendly, unique atmosphere with occasional live music.
Vale Of Glamorgan Inn
6.9 km
A cozy Welsh pub in Cowbridge offering real ales, homemade food, and a lively beer garden with friendly service.
The Six Bells
10.3 km
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The Sycamore Tree
11.3 km
A charming countryside pub in Colwinston offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Vale of Glamorgan.
The Bar
11.4 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
The Highwayman Inn
11.8 km
Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Flying Club
12.2 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.
Cherry Orchard
12.3 km
A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
Fontygary Inn
12.9 km
A friendly traditional pub in Rhoose offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan.
Star Inn
13.1 km
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Ocean Lounge
13.3 km
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Bar 105
13.3 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
13.3 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
The Flora
13.3 km
Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.
The Grange Pub
13.4 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Eclipse Nightclub
10.0 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
Squares Night club
12.5 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
Coco Cubanas
13.1 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
13.1 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Fuel Rock Club
13.5 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
13.5 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
13.7 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
13.8 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
13.8 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
13.8 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Metros
13.8 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
13.9 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Walkabout - Cardiff
13.9 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Be At One - Cardiff
13.9 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!
Retro
14.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
