Summerhall Distillery: Edinburgh’s Historic Gin Innovators

Reviving Edinburgh’s Gin Legacy

Summerhall Distillery opened its doors in 2014, marking the return of exclusive gin distilling to Edinburgh after a 150-year hiatus. Founded by lifelong friends Marcus Pickering and Matthew Gammell, the distillery was born from a shared passion for gin and a serendipitous inheritance of a secret 1947 Bombay gin recipe. Despite no prior distilling experience, the founders engineered their own distillery from scratch within the historic Summerhall complex, transforming the old dog kennels of the former Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies into a fully bonded production facility.

Craftsmanship and Innovation in Every Drop

Summerhall Distillery is home to two custom-built 500-litre traditional Portuguese alembic stills, affectionately named Gertrude and Emily, retrofitted with innovative water bath heating systems. This blend of traditional distilling methods and modern engineering allows the distillery to produce a diverse range of spirits, including award-winning gins, rums, and blended whiskies. The flagship Pickering’s Gin, crafted from the vintage recipe, is renowned for its fragrant spices and fresh citrus notes, embodying the spirit of Edinburgh with a contemporary twist.

A Cultural Hub within Summerhall Arts Venue

Situated within the bustling Summerhall Arts complex, the distillery benefits from a creative and community-focused environment. The site, once a veterinary college, now thrives as a multidisciplinary arts venue hosting galleries, theaters, workshops, and festivals. This vibrant setting fosters collaborations and events that connect the distillery with Edinburgh’s artistic and cultural scenes. Nearby, The Royal Dick bar serves Pickering’s Gin on tap, directly piped from the distillery, reinforcing a sense of local community and inclusion.

Milestones and Global Partnerships

Since its inception, Summerhall Distillery has achieved remarkable milestones, including becoming the official gin supplier for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo with its Navy Strength Gin. The distillery has also partnered with prestigious brands such as Cunard Cruise Line and British Airways to create bespoke gin expressions. Their viral Pickering’s Gin Baubles sold out 30,000 units in just 82 seconds, highlighting the brand’s innovative marketing and widespread appeal. Throughout challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the distillery adapted by producing hand sanitiser to support frontline workers.

Experiencing Summerhall Distillery Today

Visitors to Summerhall Distillery can immerse themselves in the story of botanical engineering, witnessing the distilling process and sampling a variety of spirits that reflect Edinburgh’s heritage and the founders’ craftsmanship. The distillery’s location within a historic and artistic precinct offers a unique atmosphere where tradition meets creativity. Whether indulging in a tasting session or exploring the surrounding arts venues, guests enjoy a rich sensory experience steeped in history and innovation.

A Testament to Passion and Perseverance

The story of Summerhall Distillery is one of determination, ingenuity, and friendship. From a kitchen table dream to an internationally recognized brand, Marcus and Matthew’s journey exemplifies how passion and resilience can revive a city’s forgotten craft. The distillery continues to evolve, with plans to expand its whisky offerings and deepen its ties to Edinburgh’s cultural fabric, ensuring that its legacy will endure for generations to come.