Sip Antics Distill School: Edinburgh's Bespoke Micro Distillery Experience
Create your own bespoke gin, rum, or agave spirit in Edinburgh’s intimate micro distillery experience at Sip Antics.
Sip Antics is a unique micro distillery and distill school located in Edinburgh's Newtown, offering immersive hands-on workshops where visitors create their own bottle of gin, rum, or agave spirit. Set within the intimate Cumberland Bar, this experience combines expert guidance with a personal touch, allowing enthusiasts to explore distillation, select botanicals, and bottle their bespoke spirit to take home.
A brief summary to Sip Antics
- The Cumberland Bar, 2 Cumberland St, Edinburgh, EH3 6RT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 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 workshop in advance as sessions are intimate and fill quickly.
- Arrive on time to enjoy the welcome gin and tonic and full workshop experience.
- Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for a hands-on distilling process.
- Consider gifting a workshop experience for a unique present.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 23 or 27 from Edinburgh city centre, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently, but check schedules for evening services. The nearest stop is Cumberland Street, a short walk to the venue.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams from the airport or city centre to St Andrew Square, then take a 15-minute walk through Newtown to Cumberland Street. The tram service runs every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing around £6 from the airport.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city centre takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more costly, typically £6-£10.
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Walking
From Princes Street or the Old Town, walking to Cumberland Street takes 20-30 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route passes through Edinburgh’s Newtown, offering scenic urban views and access to cafes and shops.
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
An Intimate Micro Distillery in the Heart of Edinburgh
Nestled within the historic Cumberland Bar on Cumberland Street, Sip Antics offers a distinctive micro distillery experience unlike traditional large-scale operations. This small-scale venue provides a cozy and personal setting where visitors engage directly with the distillation process. The location’s central Edinburgh Newtown position makes it an accessible yet tucked-away gem for locals and travelers seeking a unique spirits experience.Hands-On Spirit Creation Workshops
At the core of Sip Antics is its acclaimed distill school, where participants spend around three hours crafting their own spirit. After a warm welcome featuring a classic gin and tonic, guests choose from over 60 botanicals to design a personalized gin recipe or opt to create rum or agave-based spirits. Using small copper stills, they distill, bottle, label, and wax a 70cl bottle to take home, making the experience both educational and memorable.Expert Guidance and Personal Touch
The workshops are led by knowledgeable hosts who combine deep expertise with friendly, engaging instruction. This approachable atmosphere demystifies the distillation process and encourages creativity. The small group sizes ensure individual attention and a bespoke experience, ideal for spirit lovers wanting to deepen their understanding or create a special gift.Edinburgh’s Growing Craft Distilling Scene
Sip Antics is part of Edinburgh’s vibrant craft distilling renaissance, complementing other local distilleries with its focus on interactive education rather than mass production. Its location in a historic bar adds to the charm, linking the city’s rich drinking culture with modern artisanal spirit-making. Visitors gain insight into the heritage and innovation that define Scotland’s contemporary distilling landscape.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The ambiance is warm and convivial, blending the rustic charm of the Cumberland Bar with the excitement of crafting bespoke spirits. The sensory experience—from selecting botanicals to the aromas of distillation—immerses visitors fully. The finished product, sealed and labeled by the participant, offers a tangible memento of the day’s creativity and learning.Beyond the Workshop: A Hub for Spirit Enthusiasts
Beyond private workshops, Sip Antics fosters a community of spirit enthusiasts through occasional events and collaborations. The venue’s central location also makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Edinburgh’s broader cultural and culinary offerings, providing a distinctive and enriching addition to any itinerary.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
0.9 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.9 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Dugald Stewart Monument
1.0 km
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
1.1 km
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
0.8 km
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
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.9 km
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
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Pure Scottish
0.9 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
The Cats Miaou
0.9 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bramble Bar
0.5 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Nightcap
0.5 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Grand Cru
0.6 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Thistle Street Bar
0.6 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Bon Vivant
0.6 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
The Last Word
0.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.6 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
The Street
0.6 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.7 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.7 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Alchemist
0.8 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
Copper Blossom
0.8 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.9 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Panda & Sons
0.9 km
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
0.5 km
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
0.6 km
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
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- 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
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly