Making a bottle of gin or rum at a Welsh distillery offers a unique glimpse into the art of spirits crafting, blending learning with a dash of fun. This experience isn’t just about tasting; it’s about rolling up your sleeves and creating a bespoke bottle of your favorite spirit. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a friendly, knowledgeable environment that values authenticity and craftsmanship.
What we particularly like about this experience is its interactive nature—you’re never just watching; you’re doing. Plus, the beautiful copper stills and scenic location add a touch of charm, making the process visually appealing. The fact that you get to bottle and label your own creation makes it feel like a real accomplishment. One little caveat: the experience lasts about 2.5 hours, so it’s not a quick stop, but definitely worth the investment for the hands-on fun.
This tour best suits those curious about spirits, keen on a creative activity, or looking for a memorable gift to bring home. While it’s not suitable for children under 18, anyone with a taste for craft drinks and a love of Welsh scenery will find plenty to enjoy.
This experience made our article of Top 5 Tours & Experiences In Newport Uk.
Key Points
- Hands-On Crafting: Get involved in every step from botanicals to bottling your own spirit.
- Authentic Learning: Brief guided tour and tasters provide insight into gin and rum production.
- Personalized Keepsake: Take home a custom-labeled bottle you made yourself.
- Includes a Drink: Enjoy a cocktail made from your creation before bottling.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
- Limited to Adults: Suitable for anyone over 18 interested in spirits or DIY activities.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
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Setting the Scene in Newport County, Wales
Located in the scenic surroundings of Newport, the distillery is a cozy, welcoming spot. The Welsh countryside around the operation adds a beautiful backdrop, making the journey there as enjoyable as the activity itself. The distillery’s use of traditional copper stills not only creates a picturesque scene but also hints at a craft rooted in time-honored techniques.
What the Tour Entails
The experience kicks off with a welcome drink from the bar menu, helping everyone relax and get into the spirit (pun intended). After that, your guide leads a brief but informative tour of the distillery, showing off the copper stills and explaining the key steps in gin or rum creation. The tasting session that follows offers a chance to sample different botanicals or base spirits, giving you ideas for your own blend.
Making Your Own Spirit
The core of this experience is creating a personalized bottle of gin or rum. You start by selecting botanicals—think juniper, citrus peels, spices, or other flavorings—before the distillation process begins. Using the copper stills, which are often described as visually stunning, you’ll see firsthand how flavors are extracted and concentrated.
The process, which takes approximately two to three hours, includes filtering and bottling your spirit. You’ll have the chance to stamp your bottle with a wax seal and design a custom label, making it truly your own. It’s a craft that appeals to both beginners and those with some experience in spirits, as the guides are friendly and ready to assist.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting and Final Touches
Before sealing your bottle, you’ll enjoy a cocktail made from your creation, giving you a real taste of what you’ve made. Many reviewers have appreciated this step, citing the thrill of sipping a drink you personally crafted. Plus, the experience includes a 10% discount voucher for drinks or additional cocktails at the venue, perfect if you want to extend your visit or stock up for later.
Practical Details and Value
At 2.5 hours, this experience balances comprehensive learning with fun. The price point is reasonable considering you leave with a bespoke bottle—an experience that combines education, activity, and a souvenir. The reservation system is flexible, allowing you to book now and pay later, with cancellations possible up to 24 hours before.
Guest Experience and Highlights
Multiple reviews note the friendly guides and the informative yet relaxed atmosphere. One guest mentioned how “the stills are a sight to behold,” and appreciated the chance to see the craftsmanship firsthand. Many also highlighted the scenic setting, which makes the entire experience feel special.
Limitations and Considerations
The main drawback is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. Also, as the activity is adult-only, it’s not suitable for children or teens. The experience is best for those who enjoy a hands-on activity coupled with a love of spirits or crafting.
Final Thoughts
This distillery experience offers a perfect blend of education, creativity, and fun. It’s ideal for travelers who want something beyond the usual pub crawl or tasting session, giving them an opportunity to shape their own drink from scratch. The setting, the craftsmanship, and the chance to bring home a bottle make it feel special—sure to be a highlight of any trip to Wales.
If you’re a spirit enthusiast or simply love unique experiences, this tour provides genuine value. The personal touch of designing your own label and bottling your spirit ensures you’ll remember it long after your Wales trip ends. Plus, the scenic backdrop and the friendly atmosphere make it a comfortable, engaging activity.
For those looking for an authentic, hands-on activity that combines learning with a bit of playful creativity, this distillery visit is a clear winner. It’s a chance to take home a piece of Wales, crafted by your own hands.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the distillery isn’t provided, so plan your route accordingly.
What’s the duration of the experience?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including the tour, making it a well-paced activity.
Can I book this experience for later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.
Is the activity suitable for children?
No, it’s only suitable for guests over 18 years old due to the nature of alcohol production.
What’s included in the price?
You get a welcome drink, a guided tour, the chance to create your own spirit, a cocktail from your spirit, and a custom-labeled bottle to take home.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes, a 10% discount voucher is included for drinks or additional cocktails at the venue.
What kind of spirits can I make?
You can choose to make either gin or rum, depending on availability, with guidance throughout the process.
What should I expect during the process?
You’ll select botanicals, observe distillation, participate in filtering and bottling, and design your label—all under the supervision of friendly guides.
What’s the setting like?
The distillery’s copper stills are visually striking, set in a scenic location that enhances the overall experience.
This experience offers a fantastic way to connect with Welsh craftsmanship, indulge your creative side, and leave with a one-of-a-kind bottle. Whether for a special occasion or simply wanting to try something different, it’s an activity that marries fun with learning in a truly authentic setting.
📍 This experience made our list of the 5 best Tours & Experiences in Newport Uk