Stratford upon Avon: Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Gin Tasting

Summary

Stratford gin tour with tasting and Tudor history in a working distillery

You’ll step into a real working distillery in Stratford upon Avon, guided by locals who know their stuff—and their spirits. Smell fresh botanicals, taste three unique gins inspired by Tudor gardens, and finish with a proper Gin & Tonic. It’s not just about drinking; you’ll come away feeling connected to both history and flavor in a way that lingers.

What’s the experience like?

We started right at the door of Shakespeare Distillery—kind of tucked away, but you can smell that sweet, herby gin note before you even step inside. Our guide, Tom (who grew up just outside Stratford upon Avon), waved us in and handed out hairnets. Not my best look, but everyone laughed it off. The place isn’t huge or shiny—more like someone’s very tidy workshop, copper stills humming quietly in the corner. Tom explained how they use herbs inspired by Tudor gardens for their Stratford Gin. I tried to remember what angelica root smells like—he passed some around and it was earthier than I thought.

I didn’t expect to actually enjoy learning about gin’s history, but Tom made it weirdly fun. He told this story about how people used to believe juniper could ward off the plague—imagine that as your health plan. We moved through the process step by step; you could hear the bubbling from one of the tanks and someone behind us sneezed because of all the botanicals in the air (not me this time). The tour felt relaxed—no rush at all—and Tom answered every odd question we threw at him, even when someone asked if gin was ever used as medicine for horses (it wasn’t).

The tasting was honestly my favorite part. Three little glasses lined up—each one different. The first had this almost grassy bite to it; the second tasted floral, like something you’d find growing wild near the river here. I probably swirled them too much trying to look like I knew what I was doing. When we finally got our Gin & Tonic at the end, it just tasted better knowing exactly what went into it. There’s something about sipping gin where Shakespeare might’ve walked that sticks with you longer than expected.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Distillery tour and gin tasting

• Join tour at Shakespeare Distillery
• Learn how gin is made
• Discover gin history and ingredients
• Taste at least 3 spirits
• Enjoy a Gin & Tonic

Top questions

How long is the Shakespeare Distillery tour?

The tour typically lasts around one hour including tasting.

Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It’s recommended to book ahead as spaces are limited for each session.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, there are public transport options close to the distillery.

What spirits are included in the tasting?

You’ll taste at least three Shakespeare Distillery spirits plus a Gin & Tonic.

Is there a discount for purchases on the day?

You get 10% off any same-day shop purchases after your tour.

Are service animals allowed inside?

Yes, service animals are welcome throughout the experience.

Is lunch or food included on this tour?

No meals are included; only spirit tastings and a Gin & Tonic are provided.

What’s included

Your visit includes a guided tour of Shakespeare Distillery in Stratford upon Avon with plenty of time for questions, a tutored tasting of three different house spirits plus a full Gin & Tonic at the end—and if you want to take something home, there’s also a 10% discount on any shop purchases made that same day.