City of London Distillery & Bar

A Revival of London's Gin Heritage

The City of London Distillery & Bar stands as a remarkable revival of the Square Mile’s distilling tradition, the first in nearly two centuries to operate within the City of London itself. Established as the home of the multi-award-winning Whitley Neill Gin, the distillery has garnered over 65 medals internationally, including multiple Double Golds and Golds at prestigious competitions. Its mission marries the preservation of London’s historic gin production with innovative contemporary techniques, making it a beacon of craftsmanship and quality.

Immersive Distillery Experience

Visitors descend into a cozy, subterranean space where the distillery’s copper stills—named ‘Gog’ and ‘Magog’ after the mythical guardians of London—are on full display behind glass. The open-plan setup allows guests to witness the redistillation process that smooths the neutral spirit base, enhancing mouthfeel and flavor. The distillery emphasizes a lighter, citrus-forward style of gin, with pink grapefruit notes providing a refreshing twist, distinguishing it from the more traditional juniper-heavy varieties.

Extensive Gin Selection and Cocktail Craft

Beyond its own signature gin, the bar boasts an impressive collection of over 130 gins, ranging from Old Tom and London Dry to experimental and Mediterranean-inspired varieties like Gin Mare. The knowledgeable and passionate bartenders guide guests through this treasure trove, helping tailor gin tastings and cocktails to individual palates. The bar’s ambiance is warm and intimate, filled with aromatic gin vapors, flickering candlelight, and a sophisticated speakeasy vibe that invites lingering conversations and discovery.

Engaging Tours and Masterclasses

The distillery offers hourly tours and masterclasses during weekdays, where visitors can delve into the history, production, and nuances of gin making. These sessions blend education with entertainment, often featuring anecdotes about gin’s cultural significance and the distillery’s role in London’s spirit scene. For those seeking a hands-on experience, the ‘make your own gin’ workshops provide a fun and informative way to create personalized blends.

Atmosphere and Culinary Offerings

The venue’s stylish interior includes capacious armchairs, curtained-off corners, and table service that elevate the experience beyond a typical bar. While primarily celebrated for its gin, the distillery also offers a selection of food, including highly praised pizzas, complementing the drinks perfectly. The overall atmosphere is energetic yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for date nights, group outings, or solo exploration of London’s gin culture.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 22-24 Bride Lane, the distillery is positioned within easy reach of London’s central landmarks. Its underground setting adds to the allure, providing a hidden gem feel amidst the bustling city. Open Monday to Friday from 4pm to 10pm and Saturdays from 2pm to 10pm, it caters to evening visitors looking for a distinctive and immersive gin experience.