A Journey into the World of Gin

As a museum curator with a penchant for interactive experiences, I am always on the lookout for activities that blend education with entertainment. When I heard about the Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour in Whitchurch, I was intrigued. Known for its rich history and exquisite gin, the distillery promised a unique experience that I couldn’t resist. My wife and I decided to make it a family affair, bringing along our two children to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the distillery.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with the sight of the stunning Laverstoke Mill, a place where history and modernity coexist beautifully. The clear river running through the property was a sight to behold, and the architecture of the newer buildings seamlessly blended with the Grade II listed structures. It was a perfect setting for a day of exploration and learning.

The experience began at the Turbine Bar, where we were invited to create our own gin and tonic using Bombay’s self-serve dispensers. As someone who recently developed a taste for gin, this was a delightful start. The children, of course, were more interested in the non-alcoholic options, but they enjoyed watching the process and learning about the botanicals involved.

Discovering the Secrets of Gin

The tour continued with a visit to the cinema room, where we were immersed in the world of Bombay Sapphire. The film provided a fascinating insight into the history of the distillery and the unique production processes that make their gin so special. It was an educational experience that captivated both adults and children alike.

Our guide, Maria, led us through the Botanical Glasshouses, where we learned about the ten exotic botanicals that are infused into every drop of Bombay Sapphire Gin. The glasshouses themselves were a marvel of design, inspired by Heatherwick Studios, and provided a sensory experience that was both informative and engaging.

The highlight for me was the Botanical Dry Room, where we were encouraged to explore our flavor preferences. It was a hands-on experience that allowed us to understand the complexity of gin and the art of blending botanicals. My children were particularly fascinated by the different scents and enjoyed guessing which botanicals were used in their favorite gins.

A Taste of Elegance

The tour concluded with a visit to the bar, where we were treated to a selection of exquisite cocktails. The mixologists were skilled and knowledgeable, and the cocktails were a testament to the quality of Bombay Sapphire Gin. While the drinks were on the smaller side, they were crafted with precision and flair, leaving us with a lasting impression of elegance and sophistication.

As we made our way to the shop, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of appreciation for the effort put into maintaining safety standards during our visit. The measures in place were reassuring, and we felt comfortable throughout the experience. However, the prices in the shop were indeed on the higher side, a sentiment echoed by other visitors.

Despite this, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour was a memorable experience that I would recommend to anyone with an interest in gin or cocktails. The combination of history, culture, and exquisite gin made for a day well spent, and the stunning location only added to the charm. It was a perfect blend of education and entertainment, a hallmark of any great family-friendly activity.