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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.
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.
Book with Wharf Distillery
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Operated by Wharf Distillery · Towcester, England
Located in Towcester, England, Wharf Distillery offers a unique, intimate journey into the craft of spirit-making right in the heart of Northamptonshire. Unlike large-scale operations, Wharf Distillery prides itself on its small-batch approach, blending traditional methods with local ingredients to create award-winning liquors that speak to the region’s agricultural roots.
The Founder's Tour & Tasting invites visitors to step beyond the usual tasting room experience. Guided by founder Laurence Conisbee himself, guests get an up-close look at the inner workings of this characterful distillery. The tour begins in the Still Room, where gleaming copper stills quietly shape the transformation of grain into spirits. Laurence shares insights on each stage—milling, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and aging—uncovering how the craft’s meticulous details translate into bold apple brandy, vibrant gin, and smooth vodka.
Towcester, a town with historic ties stretching back to Roman times, provides an atmospheric setting that complements the distillery’s blend of old methods and modern flair. The tour concludes with a tasting session featuring a selection of products that range from rich, hearty flavors to lighter, aromatic spirits. The distillery shop allows guests to take these distinctly local tastes home, supporting small-scale production that champions environmental care and sustainability.
Wharf Distillery stands out in the UK’s outdoor and cultural landscape by tying local craftmanship to regional identity. It offers an authentic experience for visitors who appreciate the story behind a drink as much as the drink itself. Whether you’re passing through Towcester or seeking a rewarding detour, this tour combines education, craftsmanship, and flavor in a welcoming setting.
easy.
1 hour.
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience is stationary and indoors
No, the Founder's Tour & Tasting is restricted to guests aged 18 and over due to the alcohol tasting components.
The complete experience is approximately one hour, including the tasting session.
Yes, the distillery shop offers a range of their products for purchase to take home.
Parking at the distillery is limited; free on-street parking nearby is recommended during weekdays.
The tour accommodates up to 15 people to maintain an intimate experience.
Yes, booking ahead is strongly recommended to secure your spot on the limited-capacity tour.
Towcester dates back to Roman times, once known as Lactodorum, marking it as a key settlement along the historic Roman road of Watling Street.
Wharf Distillery emphasizes sustainable sourcing of ingredients and employs eco-friendly production practices to minimize environmental impact.
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.
Book with Wharf Distillery