Join founder Laurence at Wharf Distillery in Towcester for an immersive glimpse into the art of traditional spirits crafting. Discover how local ingredients become award-winning apple brandy, gin, and vodka, followed by a tasting in an intimate setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience is stationary and indoors
Wildlife
History
Towcester dates back to Roman times, once known as Lactodorum, marking it as a key settlement along the historic Roman road of Watling Street.
Conservation
Wharf Distillery emphasizes sustainable sourcing of ingredients and employs eco-friendly production practices to minimize environmental impact.
Wharf Distillery
Join founder Laurence at Wharf Distillery in Towcester for an immersive glimpse into the art of traditional spirits crafting. Discover how local ingredients become award-winning apple brandy, gin, and vodka, followed by a tasting in an intimate setting.
Wharf Distillery is an independent craft distillery based in Towcester, England. Founded by Laurence, the distillery focuses on producing award-winning spirits using local ingredients and traditional methods. Visitors can tour the small-batch production space to learn about distillation, maturation, and bottling processes.
The Founder's Tour & Tasting features a guided experience with founder Laurence, revealing the story behind each spirit and finishing with a tasting of selections such as bold apple brandy and vibrant gin. The distillery also hosts collaborative events with Sip 'n' Swig, including the Autumn Cocktail Masterclass with Sip 'n' Swig and a Cocktail Masterclass with Sip 'n' Swig. These masterclasses begin with a welcome drink and guide participants through crafting three seasonal cocktails in a relaxed, social setting. The Autumn class is presented as a two-hour workshop.
Wharf Distillery accommodates small groups and prioritizes an authentic, educational visit. The team highlights local sourcing and hands-on demonstrations to connect visitors with the craft of spirit making. Booking information and schedules for tours and masterclasses are available through event listings and ticket platforms that feature Wharf Distillery experiences.
Health and safety practices are observed during tours and tastings. Wharf Distillery’s combination of founder-led tours, tasting opportunities, and cocktail workshops offers a clear, accessible way for guests to explore craft distilling in Towcester.
Tastings typically include a guided explanation of flavour profiles, serving suggestions, and pairing notes. Visitors leave with practical knowledge of distilling techniques and recommendations for purchasing bottles directly from the distillery or approved retailers, and souvenirs.
Location
Towcester, England
Based in Towcester, Northamptonshire
Tours Offered
3
Founder's tour and two masterclasses
Award-Winning
Yes
Produces award-winning spirits
Spirits Made
Gin & Apple Brandy
Local ingredients and traditional methods
Reserve a Founder's Tour & Tasting or join a Sip 'n' Swig cocktail masterclass for an authentic, hands‑on evening.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled tour to secure your spot and settle in comfortably.
Parking Info
Use on-street parking nearby as the distillery’s parking is limited; all parking in Towcester is free during the week.
Age Restriction
This tour is strictly for guests aged 18 and over due to alcohol tasting.
Mind Heavy Vehicles
Be cautious around the distillery’s front area, where heavy goods vehicles operate regularly.
Comfortable walking shoes
Helpful for safely navigating the distillery grounds and any nearby walking paths.
Light jacket or sweater
Indoor temperatures can vary; layering keeps you comfortable during the tour.
spring|fall|winter
Valid ID
Required to verify age due to alcohol consumption during the tasting.
Notebook
Useful if you want to jot down tasting notes or distilling techniques shared by Laurence.