THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step into a former WWII RAF base and explore the award-winning gins of Sky Wave Distillery at Bicester Heritage. This guided tasting experience connects history with craft spirits in an unforgettable way.
Step into a former WWII RAF base and explore the award-winning gins of Sky Wave Distillery at Bicester Heritage. This guided tasting experience connects history with craft spirits in an unforgettable way.
Book with The Sky Wave Distilling Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Sky Wave Distilling Company · Launton, England
Located at Bicester Heritage in Launton, England, The Sky Wave Distillery Experience offers a captivating journey into the world of contemporary gin-making set within the grounds of a former World War II RAF base. This unique destination blends rich history with modern craftsmanship, inviting visitors to explore the meticulous art behind award-winning gins while surrounded by the echoes of aviation past and historic motoring culture.
Bicester Heritage, the site of the distillery, is renowned for preserving the architectural charm of RAF Bicester, once an active airbase during WWII. The distillery itself occupies one of the well-maintained North Tanker Sheds, providing a distinctive atmosphere where history and innovation meet. Here, guests are welcomed to dive into the process of distillation through a guided tour hosted by knowledgeable distillery staff.
The experience begins with a complimentary G&T on arrival, setting the tone for an engaging tutored tasting of three carefully selected Sky Wave gin varieties. Each pour reveals the unique botanical blends and distillation techniques that have earned the brand international acclaim. Guests gain insights into the origins and stories behind each spirit, deepening their appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
Sky Wave Distillery is more than a place to taste gin; it is a vibrant part of the local outdoor recreation scene, offering a refreshing alternative to the region’s traditional countryside pursuits. For enthusiasts of harder-to-find gins or those curious about brewing techniques, this experience is both educational and social.
Visitors are encouraged to wear closed footwear due to the distillery setting and must be over 18, maintaining compliance with licensing regulations. Although food is not included, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the historic surroundings after the tasting. The venue's proximity to Bicester town makes it an accessible day trip, combining a bit of local history with a spirited adventure.
Enhancing the visit, Bicester Heritage itself is celebrated for its historic motoring events and collection of vintage aircraft hangars. This adds a layer of interest for history buffs and motor enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned gin aficionado or a curious traveler, The Sky Wave Distillery Experience offers an engaging glimpse into the production of some of the world’s best contemporary gin within a remarkable historic setting. It’s an experience that marries past and present with every sip, making it a stand-out destination for anyone visiting Oxfordshire.
easy.
1 hour 15 minutes.
No physical fitness required as this is a seated tasting and tour experience.
Yes, non-alcoholic driver's packs are available so everyone can participate safely.
No, attendance is strictly limited to guests aged 18 and over due to alcohol licensing laws.
No, food is not included, so plan to eat before or after your visit.
Yes, private tours can be arranged for groups of 10 or more by contacting the distillery directly.
The experience is generally accessible; further accessibility details are available on the Sky Wave website.
Yes, guests receive a 10% discount on purchases over £30 made on the day of the visit.
Bicester Heritage preserves a WWII RAF base that played a crucial role in British air defense and post-war aviation history.
The distillery partners with local heritage efforts to maintain the site sustainably and promotes responsible drinking practices.
The Sky Wave Distilling Company is a boutique distillery and tasting venue located in Launton, England, operating within the restored structures of a World War II RAF base at Bicester Heritage. The company produces award-winning gins and runs hands-on experiences for visitors, blending craft distillation with local motoring history. Guests can book a guided distillery tour with a tutored tasting of three distinct gins, or join the Sky Wave Cocktail Masterclass to learn mixology techniques and create three signature cocktails. Each experience is led by knowledgeable staff who explain gin-making processes, botanical selection, and flavour profiling. The distillery uses traditional and modern methods to produce small-batch spirits, and tastings focus on helping guests identify aromatic notes, juniper balance, and complementary mixers. The cocktail masterclass combines historical context with practical instruction in a boutique bar setting, offering a social, educational activity suitable for friends, couples, and small groups. Sky Wave Distilling Company's location at Bicester Heritage adds authenticity and a unique backdrop, linking craft gin to a site of aviation and automotive heritage. The business emphasizes safety, attentive service, and clear guidance during tours and classes. Booking information, accessibility details, and the latest tour schedules are available through official channels. Visitors seeking a curated gin experience in Oxfordshire will find both an informative distillery visit and an engaging cocktail workshop that highlight local craftsmanship and award-winning products. Groups and private hires can arrange tailored sessions for corporate events, stag and hen parties, and special celebrations with advance online booking confirmation.
Book with The Sky Wave Distilling Company