Summerhall Distillery: Edinburgh’s Pioneering Gin Heritage

Reviving Edinburgh’s Gin Legacy

Summerhall Distillery stands as a landmark in Edinburgh’s spirits scene, being the first exclusive gin distillery established in the city in more than a century and a half. Founded in 2013 by two friends, Matt Gammel and Marcus Pickering, the distillery was born from a passion for gin and an inherited 1947 Bombay gin recipe. This historic recipe, kept secret for decades, inspired the creation of Pickering’s Gin, which has since become a multi-award-winning brand. The founders’ journey began with no prior distilling experience, but through determination and creativity, they built the distillery from scratch within the old dog kennels of the former Royal (Dick) Veterinary School, now the Summerhall arts venue.

A Unique Home Within a Creative Hub

Nestled in the heart of Newington, Summerhall Distillery occupies a distinctive space within the Summerhall complex, a vibrant arts and cultural venue that hosts galleries, theaters, workshops, and festivals. The distillery’s location in the repurposed veterinary school’s kennels adds character and history to the site. Two traditional Portuguese alembic copper stills, affectionately named Emily and Gertrude, are central to the distillation process and have been retrofitted with innovative water bath heating to maintain quality and consistency. This fusion of heritage and modern engineering reflects the founders’ backgrounds in engineering and furniture restoration, contributing to the distillery’s inventive spirit.

Crafting Spirits with a Story

Summerhall Distillery produces a range of spirits, with Pickering’s Gin as its flagship. The gin is crafted using the original 1947 recipe, blending fragrant spices and fresh citrus fruits reminiscent of the Raj era, yet adapted to contemporary tastes for smoothness and balance. Over the years, the distillery has expanded its offerings to include cask-aged gins, flavored variants, rum, and blended and single malt whiskies. The brand’s innovative spirit extends beyond production; during the COVID-19 pandemic, the distillery pivoted to produce hand sanitiser, supporting frontline services with over 200,000 litres.

Community and Collaboration at Its Core

Summerhall Distillery thrives within a community-oriented environment. The nearby Royal Dick pub serves Pickering’s Gin on tap, directly piped from the distillery, fostering a sense of inclusion and local pride. The distillery’s partnerships with prestigious organizations such as The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Cunard Cruise Lines, and The Royal Yacht Britannia highlight its growing international reputation. These collaborations have resulted in special edition gins, including a Navy Strength Gin and bespoke expressions for Cunard’s fleet, blending tradition with storytelling.

Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance

Visitors to Summerhall Distillery can immerse themselves in the history and craft of gin-making through tours and tastings that showcase the distillery’s unique setting and artisanal methods. The distillery’s presence within the Summerhall arts complex enriches Edinburgh’s cultural landscape, blending the creative energy of the arts with the craftsmanship of spirit production. This synergy makes Summerhall Distillery a destination not only for gin enthusiasts but also for those interested in heritage, innovation, and community-driven enterprises.

Looking Ahead: Innovation and Legacy

As Summerhall Distillery celebrates over a decade of success, it continues to innovate while honoring its roots. The founders are developing new spirits, including a blended Scotch whisky and the forthcoming Broody Hen Single Malt, signaling a commitment to growth and quality. The distillery’s story—from a kitchen table dream to a global brand—exemplifies entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to craft, making it a must-visit landmark in Edinburgh’s evolving drinks scene.