Sip Antics Distill School: Edinburgh's Bespoke Micro Distillery Experience
Create your own bespoke gin, rum, or agave spirit at Edinburgh’s intimate and expert-led micro distillery experience.
Sip Antics is a unique micro distillery and distill school located in Edinburgh's Newtown, offering visitors the chance to create their own bespoke bottles of gin, rum, or agave spirit. This hands-on experience combines expert guidance with a fun, educational atmosphere, making it a standout destination for spirit enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to Sip Antics
- The Cumberland Bar, 2 Cumberland St, Edinburgh, EH3 6RT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 4:30 pm-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 4:30 pm-7:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-6 pm
- Friday 12 pm-6 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-6 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your distilling workshop in advance as sessions can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a hands-on workshop environment.
- Arrive with an open mind and be ready to learn about the history and craft of spirit making.
- Consider gifting a workshop experience to friends or family who enjoy unique and creative activities.
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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Bus
Several Lothian Bus routes serve Cumberland Street from Edinburgh city centre, with journey times of approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with tickets costing around £1.80 to £2.50 one way.
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Tram and Walk
Take the Edinburgh Tram to the York Place stop, then enjoy a 10 to 15-minute walk to Cumberland Street through Newtown’s charming streets. The tram fare is about £6 for a single ticket from the airport or city centre.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi from Edinburgh city centre to Sip Antics typically takes 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6 to £10. Rideshare services are also widely available.
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Walking
If you are staying in Edinburgh city centre, walking to Cumberland Street takes around 20 to 30 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through lively urban areas.
Sip Antics location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sip Antics
A Unique Micro Distillery in Edinburgh's Newtown
Nestled in the vibrant Newtown area of Edinburgh, Sip Antics offers a distinct and immersive experience for those interested in the art of distilling. Unlike traditional distilleries, this micro distillery focuses on providing guests with a hands-on workshop where they can craft their own personalized bottles of gin, rum, or agave spirit. The location itself is intimate and welcoming, designed to foster a relaxed yet engaging environment where creativity and learning go hand in hand.Crafting Your Own Spirit: The Distill School Experience
At the heart of Sip Antics is its distill school, where expert hosts guide participants through the intricate process of spirit making. Guests learn about the history, ingredients, and techniques involved in distilling, gaining insights into the unique characteristics of gin, rum, and agave spirits. The experience culminates in each visitor distilling and bottling their own custom spirit to take home, making it a memorable and personalized souvenir.Expert Guidance and Personal Touch
The knowledgeable and friendly team at Sip Antics ensures that every session is informative and enjoyable. The hosts provide detailed explanations and hands-on assistance, making the distilling process accessible even for beginners. This bespoke approach allows visitors to tailor their spirit to their taste preferences, whether they favor classic botanicals or more adventurous flavor profiles.Atmosphere and Setting
Sip Antics is housed within The Cumberland Bar on Cumberland Street, blending the charm of a traditional Edinburgh setting with the modernity of a craft distillery. The venue’s cozy ambiance invites guests to relax and savor the experience, while the workshop setup encourages interaction and exploration. The location also benefits from being in a lively part of the city, surrounded by other bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions.Perfect for Various Occasions
Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, Sip Antics offers an engaging activity that suits a range of visitors. It is ideal for those looking to deepen their appreciation of spirits, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a unique and creative workshop in Edinburgh. The experience is also popular for corporate events and private bookings, providing a fun and educational team-building opportunity.Commitment to Quality and Authenticity
Sip Antics prides itself on delivering a genuine craft distilling experience. The micro distillery uses quality ingredients and traditional methods, ensuring that each bottle produced reflects the care and expertise invested in its creation. This commitment to authenticity enhances the overall visitor experience, making Sip Antics a must-visit for anyone interested in the world of spirits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Melville Monument
0.6 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.6 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.6 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.8 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
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Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
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A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Dugald Stewart Monument
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A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
1.0 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
North Bridge
1.0 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
The Mound & Mound Place
1.0 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Anchor Close
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting Anchor Close in Edinburgh, a historical alley showcasing stunning architecture and the city's rich cultural heritage.
Lady Stair's Close
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Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Nelson Monument
1.1 km
Historic naval monument with a unique time ball and panoramic views atop Edinburgh’s Calton Hill.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
1.1 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Edinburgh New Town
0.5 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s iconic basement comedy club delivering lively stand-up shows with a warm, intimate atmosphere and a mix of top and emerging talent.
Circus Lane
0.5 km
Explore the enchanting Circus Lane in Edinburgh, a hidden gem lined with colorful flowers and charming architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Heriot Row
0.5 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
Stockbridge
0.6 km
A charming village atmosphere with Georgian elegance, artisan markets, riverside walks, and cosy cafés just minutes from Edinburgh city centre.
Multrees Walk
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
St Andrew Square
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
The Dome
0.6 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Assembly Rooms
0.7 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.7 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
St James Quarter
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.
Stockbridge Market
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
Essential places to dine
The Table
0.3 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
The Magnum
0.4 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
0.4 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Fhior
0.5 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
0.5 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Taisteal
0.6 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Purslane Restaurant
0.6 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Amarone
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.7 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.7 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.7 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.7 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.7 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.7 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unicorn Antiques
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.3 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
The Dragonfly
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Curiouser & Curiouser
0.5 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Great Scot
0.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Anime Republic
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
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Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
The Treasure Trove
0.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Edinburgh Gifts
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Scottish Design Exchange
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Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
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Pure Scottish
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The Cats Miaou
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bramble Bar
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Nightcap
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Grand Cru
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Thistle Street Bar
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The Bon Vivant
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The Last Word
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Lucky Liquor Co
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The Street
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The Voodoo Rooms
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Hoot The Redeemer
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The Alchemist
0.8 km
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Copper Blossom
0.8 km
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Never Really Here
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Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Panda & Sons
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Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Dirty Dick's Pub
1.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
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Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Shanghai Nightclub
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Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.7 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.9 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Liquid Room
1.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Bongo Club
1.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
1.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
1.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
1.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Cabaret Voltaire
1.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
Club Tropicana
1.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
