1881 Distillery & Gin School Travel Guide

The 1881 Distillery is uniquely housed within the Peebles Hydro Hotel, a grand Victorian building originally constructed in 1881 as a hydropathic spa. The distillery occupies the site of the hotel's former swimming pool, blending historical architecture with modern craft distilling. The Hydro’s history is deeply woven into the distillery’s identity — from the healing waters of the Shieldgreen Spring that supply the distillery, to the legacy of the tennis courts and the tragic 1905 fire commemorated in the gin’s botanicals and flavors. This heritage is celebrated in every bottle, connecting visitors to the region’s past through taste and story.

At the heart of the distillery’s operation is Felicity, a gleaming 150-litre copper still imported from Germany. The distillery uses a core set of 12 botanicals, including juniper, hawthorn, birch, Douglas fir needles, and citrus, many of which are grown locally in the distillery’s own botanical gardens. These botanicals, combined with the pure, mineral-rich water from the Shieldgreen Spring, give 1881 Gin its signature smoothness and complex piney-resinous character, balanced with warming spices and fresh citrus notes.

The 1881 Gin School is the largest residential gin school in the UK, offering an immersive and hands-on experience. Visitors are guided through the history of gin and the Hydro, sample the distillery’s range of gins, and then get the chance to create their own unique gin blend. Each participant uses their own mini copper still and selects botanicals with expert guidance, producing a personalized bottle of gin to take home. This experience can last from two to three hours, with options including tastings, snacks, and the opportunity to reorder your recipe in the future.

The distillery produces several distinctive gins, each inspired by an event or aspect of the Hydro’s history. The flagship 1881 Hydro Gin offers a refreshing and smooth profile reminiscent of a walk in the local forest. The Navy Strength Gin highlights warm spicy notes with a higher alcohol content, while the Subtly Smoked Gin introduces a delicate smoky flavor using smoked water, a unique twist that complements ginger ale or classic tonic garnishes. These gins are crafted to reflect the local landscape and heritage, making each sip a narrative of Peebles.

Visitors to the distillery enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere enhanced by the historic charm of the Peebles Hydro. The distillery space features polished copper stills and botanical displays, creating an engaging environment for both novices and gin aficionados. The adjoining hotel and gardens add to the experience, offering scenic views and a relaxing setting. The distillery also includes a shop where guests can purchase the distillery’s gin range and related products.

1881 Distillery emphasizes local sourcing and sustainability by using botanicals grown in the surrounding area and water from the private spring. This approach not only supports local agriculture but also ensures a low environmental impact. The distillery’s dedication to quality and authenticity has earned it awards and a strong reputation within the Scottish Borders and beyond, making it a must-visit for those interested in craft spirits and regional heritage.