Is prior knowledge of gin required?

No, the experience is designed for all knowledge levels, from beginners to aficionados.

Can I take my custom gin bottle home?

Yes, you receive a 70cl bottle with a personalized label and wax seal to keep.

Are there vegan options available?

Yes, vegan botanicals and tastings can be arranged upon request when booking.

Is this experience suitable for groups?

Yes, it accommodates small groups up to eight participants for a personalized session.

Can I visit the distillery bar after the experience?

Yes, subject to availability, guests can enjoy drinks at the Distillery Bar afterwards.

Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Arches Gin Lab is fully accessible to guests using mobility aids.

Craft Your Own Edinburgh Gin: A Hands-On Distillery Adventure | Events | Food Tour

Located in the historical heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, the Gin Making Experience at The Arches offers an exquisite journey into the world of gin crafting, blending tradition with personalized creativity. This immersive 3 to 3.5-hour session invites adventurous spirits aged 18 and over to dive deep into the art and science behind Edinburgh’s celebrated gin culture, right on East Market Street.

The experience begins with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the rich history of gin in Edinburgh, setting the stage for a deeper appreciation of your distillation journey. As you move through the Flavour Arch and a tour of the Still Room, you’ll witness the meticulous process that transforms botanicals into the distinctive gin flavors that Edinburgh Gin is known for.

What sets this experience apart is the hands-on opportunity to design your own bespoke gin. Under the guidance of an expert Distillery Ambassador, you select botanicals from an array of premium ingredients, then operate your own mini copper still — a rare chance to engage directly with the distillation process. As your still gently simmers, infusing your chosen botanicals, you’ll enjoy a tutored tasting featuring a seasonal selection from the brand’s award-winning range, including London Dry and Full Strength Flavour profiles.

Every participant leaves with a personalized 70cl bottle of their handcrafted gin, complete with a custom-designed label and a wax-dipped seal, making for an unforgettable keepsake or gift. To cap off the experience, guests raise a tailored G&T in celebration within the Distillery Bar, which is open subject to availability.

The Gin Making Experience is wheelchair accessible and accommodates vegans with advance notice, ensuring an inclusive event. With a maximum group size of eight, the setting fosters an intimate, engaging atmosphere where questions and creativity are encouraged.

Edinburgh itself is a city steeped in history and culture, and this experience taps into that aura, showcasing local craftsmanship while inviting visitors to make something uniquely their own. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or a curious traveler, this distillation journey adds an enriching chapter to your Edinburgh itinerary, perfectly complemented by exploring the city’s iconic landmarks nearby.

Plan to arrive 10 minutes early to get settled and start your adventure promptly. After your session, you can shop for special promotions exclusive to the distillery. For those visiting Edinburgh’s vibrant city center, this distinctive hands-on tour offers a refreshing alternative to traditional sightseeing, making it a standout participatory experience.

Overall, the Gin Making Experience at The Arches transforms spirit tasting into an interactive craft, inviting visitors to savor the essence of Edinburgh and bring home a bottle that embodies their personal flavor story.

About Edinburgh Gin Distillery

Edinburgh Gin Distillery is a dedicated gin producer and visitor experience located in Edinburgh, Scotland. The distillery offers a range of curated experiences that combine education, tasting and hands-on activity. Visitors can join guided distillery tours led by Distillery Ambassadors, explore the Flavour Arch to learn about botanicals, and sample curated gin serves in a stylish Tasting Room.

Experiences include sensory pairings, cocktail classes, guided tastings and a gin-making workshop. Signature offerings are the Decadent Duo: Gin & Chocolate Pairing, the Mix & Muddle Cocktail Class held at the Roof Garden Bar, The Classic Tour & Tasting in Edinburgh’s Old Town, Sip & Savour: Gin Meets Mellis Cheese, the Gin Making Experience in The Arches Gin Lab, and the Aroma Alchemy: Gin Tasting Masterclass. Each experience blends practical demonstration with tasting, often concluding with a take-home element such as a bespoke bottle label or a personal infusion.

The distillery emphasises botanical education and craftsmanship. Sessions explain distillation, aroma identification and garnish pairing, and many experiences feature seasonal or award-winning gins. The venue caters to both casual visitors and enthusiasts seeking deeper engagement, offering options suitable for couples, groups and private bookings. Safety and professionalism are prioritised by trained hosts, and the experiences are designed to be accessible and enjoyable while showcasing Edinburgh’s gin heritage and contemporary production.

On-site spaces include a Roof Garden Bar for cocktail classes and a stylish Tasting Room for curated samples, with bookings available for public sessions, group visits and private events hosted by the distillery.