Hooting Owl Distillery York
York’s first city distillery: where craft gin, rum and vodka meet myth, magic and a touch of owl-inspired flair in a stylish bar-lounge.
Nestled within York’s historic city walls, Hooting Owl Distillery is the city’s first licensed distillery and a vibrant bar-lounge where craft spirits come to life. Watch the copper stills at work, sample award-winning gins, vodkas and rums, and enjoy cocktails in an opulent, owl-themed setting. Distillery tours offer a fun, hands-on journey through the art of small-batch distillation, making it a must-visit for spirit lovers and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to Hooting Owl Distillery York
- Owl Distillery, 1 Rougier St, York, YO1 6HZ, GB
- +441904501911
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11:45 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11:45 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book distillery tours in advance, especially on weekends, as they often sell out and have limited availability.
- Come hungry – the lounge bar offers tasty food options, making it easy to turn a drink or tour into a full evening out.
- Ask about the distiller’s favourite botanicals or signature cocktails; staff are passionate and happy to share insights into the spirits.
- Visit midweek if you prefer a quieter atmosphere; weekends can be busier, especially in the evening.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from York Station
From York railway station, head south along Station Road, then turn onto Rougier Street; the distillery is about a 5-minute walk, clearly visible on the left-hand side near the city walls.
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By city bus
Several local bus routes stop near York city centre; from there, it’s a short walk along Rougier Street to the distillery, with clear signage and the city walls as a landmark.
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By car
Driving visitors can use nearby city centre car parks; the distillery is within easy walking distance of several large pay-and-display sites, though parking can be limited during peak times.
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By taxi
A taxi from central York or the station takes just a few minutes; drop-off is directly outside the distillery on Rougier Street, with minimal walking required.
Hooting Owl Distillery York 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 Hooting Owl Distillery York
York’s First City Distillery
Tucked away on Rougier Street just inside York’s ancient bar walls, Hooting Owl Distillery holds the distinction of being the city’s first licensed distillery within the historic walls. Housed in a modern, purpose-built space, it combines industrial charm with a touch of theatrical flair, where copper stills hum and botanicals steep in small batches. The distillery produces a wide range of spirits, including London Dry and fruit gins, premium vodka, rum and soon a York-inspired gin and bourbon-style spirit, all crafted with a strong sense of place and Yorkshire identity.Alchemy in Action
The heart of the experience is the working distillery, visible from the lounge area. Visitors can watch the distiller at work, turning carefully selected botanicals into aromatic gins and smooth spirits. The process is both scientific and artistic, with recipes guarded like secrets and batches handcrafted to ensure quality. The distillery’s capacity allows for around a thousand bottles a day, but production is deliberately kept small-batch to maintain character and consistency, giving each bottle a distinct, artisan feel.The Owl’s Lounge & Bar
Adjacent to the stills is an opulent lounge bar, designed to feel both luxurious and welcoming. Here, all of Hooting Owl’s handcrafted spirits are available neat, in cocktails or with mixers, alongside craft beers, lagers, fine wines and prosecco. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with a capacity that prioritizes guest comfort over crowds. Whether you’re stopping in for a single drink or settling in for an evening, the bar offers a stylish, owl-themed backdrop for socializing, celebrations or simply unwinding after exploring the city.Distillery Tours & Tastings
For a deeper dive, the distillery tour and gin tasting is a highlight. Lasting about 75 minutes, it begins with a welcome drink and a guided walk through the distillery, explaining the process and the story behind the brand. The tasting session is both educational and entertaining, with samples of several gins and the chance to explore how different botanicals shape flavour. The experience finishes with a full measure of your chosen spirit, making it a memorable introduction to craft distillation.A Spirit of York
Hooting Owl draws inspiration from Yorkshire’s history, landscapes and flavours, with each gin reflecting a different aspect of the region. The brand’s character is rooted in storytelling, blending myth, military history and local pride into its identity. As the only distillery currently operating within York’s city walls, it offers a rare opportunity to see spirits made on-site and to connect with the city’s evolving food and drink scene in a unique, immersive way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England - York Office
0.1 km
Explore the Historic England - York Office, a hub for heritage preservation in the heart of York, where history meets contemporary conservation efforts.
Ouse Bridge
0.3 km
Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
St. Leonard's Hospital
0.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of York’s largest medieval hospital, where healing met faith in a grand historic sanctuary.
Anglian Tower
0.4 km
Discover York’s rare Anglo-Saxon watchtower, a unique stone relic woven into ancient Roman walls and shrouded in centuries of history.
Parliament St
0.4 km
York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The Norman House
0.4 km
Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours (formally BOBH)
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage of Yorkshire with personalized tours from Best of Britain – Yorkshire Day Tours.
York Gifts and Souvenirs
0.5 km
Explore York Gifts and Souvenirs for locally crafted treasures and unique gifts that capture the essence of York's rich history and culture.
JORVIK Viking Centre
0.5 km
Explore the thrilling Viking heritage at JORVIK Viking Centre in York, where history meets adventure through interactive exhibits and captivating stories.
Ghost Hunt of York
0.5 km
Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
York's Chocolate Story
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story, where sweet indulgence meets captivating storytelling.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
0.5 km
Explore the Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow in York, a serene sanctuary steeped in history and spiritual significance, perfect for reflection and discovery.
The York Ghost Merchants
0.5 km
Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
28 Shambles
0.5 km
Medieval York's most iconic street, where 900 years of history meet vibrant modern commerce.
William Etty
0.5 km
Explore the artistic legacy of William Etty in York’s Exhibition Square, where history and culture come alive in a stunning sculpture.
Unmissable attractions to see
All Saints North Street, York - The Shrine and Parish Church
0.1 km
A medieval York church with breathtaking 15th-century stained glass and a rebuilt anchorite’s cell, offering quiet reflection and a vivid glimpse into medieval faith and art.
Barker Tower
0.1 km
Discover the medieval charm and historical significance of Barker Tower, a must-visit landmark in the heart of York.
City Screen Picturehouse
0.2 km
A lively independent cinema and cultural venue in York blending film, live entertainment, and a welcoming cafe-bar atmosphere.
A Very Magical Adventure
0.2 km
Embark on a whimsical family-friendly magical quest through York’s historic streets at Jacobs Well.
Coney St
0.2 km
York’s historic Coney Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shopping, dining, and riverside charm in the city centre.
York Mansion House
0.2 km
Explore the elegant Georgian Mansion House, a historic civic residence and cultural gem in the heart of York’s vibrant city centre.
Locked in Games York
0.2 km
Solve puzzles, beat the clock and escape in York’s clever escape room centre near the museum gardens.
York Beach
0.2 km
A vibrant craft beer bar in York’s historic Merchant Exchange, blending industrial charm with regional brews and lively riverside views.
The York Cat Trail
0.2 km
Discover York’s historic streets through a whimsical trail of cat statues blending folklore, art, and city heritage.
Black window cat
0.2 km
Explore Black Window Cat in York, a vibrant tourist attraction blending art, culture, and community in a historic setting.
The York Ghost Walk
0.3 km
Discover York’s haunted history through an atmospheric evening walk filled with ghostly tales and historic intrigue around Davygate.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
0.3 km
York's longest-running ghost tour—authentic paranormal history told nightly by passionate guides.
York Gift Center
0.3 km
Discover authentic York souvenirs and local crafts in a charming historic gift shop nestled in the heart of the city.
Dame Judi Dench Walk
0.3 km
A peaceful riverside stroll in York honoring Dame Judi Dench, blending historic views with tranquil urban nature.
York Observatory
0.3 km
Explore Yorkshire’s oldest working observatory nestled in York’s scenic Museum Gardens, home to historic telescopes and star clocks.
Essential places to dine
The Whippet Inn
0.1 km
York’s hidden steakhouse gem offering ethically sourced beef, cozy ambiance, and exceptional Sunday roasts in a stylish adults-only setting.
Kapadokya
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of historic York.
The Rise
0.1 km
Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in York’s only five-star hotel, featuring an open kitchen, terrace views, and award-winning afternoon tea.
Casa Brazilian Rodizio
0.1 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio dining with expertly grilled meats and vibrant flavors in the heart of York’s city centre.
Tomahawk Steakhouse York
0.2 km
Savor Himalayan salt dry-aged steaks and vibrant cocktails in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Tomahawk Steakhouse.
Bill's York Restaurant
0.2 km
Colourful British comfort food in a historic York building, perfect for brunch, burgers and cocktails in the city centre.
The Star Inn The City
0.2 km
Elegant riverside dining in York offering seasonal British cuisine with a rustic countryside charm and stunning views of the River Ouse.
Skosh
0.2 km
Inventive small plates, global flavors, and theatrical kitchen views in intimate York setting.
The Ivy St Helen's Square York
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in York’s historic heart, offering modern classics, vibrant interiors, and a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Partisan
0.3 km
Artistic café serving seasonal brunch and lunch in a bohemian Parisian-inspired setting on historic Micklegate.
Brew & Brownie
0.3 km
Cozy family-run café in York serving locally inspired breakfasts, artisan coffee, and indulgent brownies in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Corner Grill House
0.3 km
Award-winning Yorkshire steakhouse serving premium beef and local ingredients in York's vibrant city centre.
Turtle Bay York
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Kennedy's Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant York hotspot blending modern British cuisine, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Forage Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Refined fire-cooked dishes and inventive Yorkshire cocktails in a lush, intimate setting on York’s historic Little Stonegate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Treasures
0.1 km
Discover unique crystals and spiritual tools in a tranquil metaphysical shop at York’s George Hudson Street.
Greybear
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique gifts in the heart of York’s historic city centre at Greybear Vintage Gifts.
The Yorkshire Soap Company - York
0.3 km
A fragrant, playful haven of handmade soaps and scented treats in the heart of York – perfect for gifts and a little indulgence.
The Imaginarium
0.3 km
Discover York’s enchanting Victorian-style curiosity shop filled with unique art, vintage-inspired homewares, and affordable luxuries.
York Souvenir's
0.3 km
Discover authentic York treasures and charming souvenirs at this friendly, independent gift shop in the heart of York.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
0.4 km
Experience authentic German Christmas magic year-round in York’s historic Tudor townhouse on Stonegate.
Paper Doll
0.4 km
Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Cello by Collectables
0.4 km
Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Rookscroft
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Rookscroft, York’s cozy gift shop on historic Stonegate.
The Cat Gallery
0.5 km
York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
Shared Earth
0.5 km
Discover ethically sourced treasures and handcrafted fair trade gifts in the heart of historic York.
The Medieval Scribe
0.5 km
Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
0.5 km
Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
SOCTOPUS
0.5 km
Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Pride of York Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Maltings
0.1 km
A quirky, friendly pub in York offering a wide beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tanner's Moat.
Revolution York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York’s historic centre with multiple bars, garden terrace, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Jalou York
0.2 km
Historic church transformed into a vibrant cocktail bar with creative drinks and lively nightlife in the heart of York.
Pitcher & Piano York
0.2 km
Lively riverside bar on Coney Street blending modern British cuisine, vibrant social events, and scenic views of the River Ouse in York.
Lendal Cellars
0.2 km
Historic underground pub with a quirky atmosphere, diverse menu, and a rare city-center beer garden in York.
House Of Trembling Madness // Lendal (No table bookings)
0.2 km
Step into York’s medieval gem where historic ambiance meets an extraordinary craft beer selection in a quirky, lively setting.
Tank & Paddle York
0.2 km
Craft beer paradise in York with riverside views, stone-baked pizzas, and 19 screens showing all major sports events.
Dusk
0.3 km
A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce York Riverside
0.3 km
Lively riverside bar and restaurant in York offering cocktails, casual dining, and vibrant social vibes with scenic river views.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
0.3 km
York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Stone Roses Bar
0.4 km
York’s premier indie music bar, blending iconic memorabilia with lively vibes and friendly service in a central city location.
York Tap
0.4 km
Discover York Tap, a historic Edwardian pub at York Station, offering 32 rotating craft beer lines and a lively atmosphere for beer lovers.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
0.4 km
A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Plonkers
0.4 km
Family-run riverside wine bar and bistro in York serving home-cooked meals, fine wines, craft beers, and lively live music events since the 1980s.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flares - York
0.0 km
Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
0.0 km
York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
0.1 km
York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
0.2 km
York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
BlueBox
0.2 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
0.4 km
York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
1.4 km
Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
33.2 km
A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
33.7 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
34.3 km
Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
34.5 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
34.5 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
34.7 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
34.7 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
- Colorful Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
