Newport UK might not be as well-known as nearby Cardiff or Bath, but it packs a surprising punch when it comes to tours and experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun way to explore the town, Newport offers a variety of options that showcase its industrial past, vibrant culture, and local flavors. One standout? The Guided Distillery Tour in South Wales, where you can learn how traditional Welsh spirits are crafted while tasting award-winning drinks. It’s a chance to see the craftsmanship behind your favorite tipples and hear the stories that make Welsh spirits special.
For those who love to learn new skills, the Cocktail Lovers Masterclass offers a lively evening of mixing and muddling, perfect for impressing friends or just having fun. Or, if you prefer discovering a city on foot, the Discover Newport! walking tour dives into the town’s industrial and cultural history. Foodies and drink enthusiasts will also enjoy the Drinks Tasting with Music Bingo, which combines sampling Welsh gin and rum with a lively game. Finally, those wanting a hands-on experience can make their own bottle of gin or rum at the Make a bottle of gin or rum session — a perfect souvenir of your trip.
Below, we’ll explore each of these experiences in detail, helping you decide which fits your interests and travel style best.
1. Guided Distillery Tour in South Wales
At number 1 on our list, the Guided Distillery Tour in South Wales is an ideal choice for spirits lovers. This one-hour tour showcases handcrafted Welsh spirits like gin, vodka, and rum. What makes it stand out? The chance to see the distillery’s fantastic set-up in action and discover how Welsh culture inspires each spirit.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the distilling process and get to taste a selection of spirits—including the popular coffee and cherry liqueurs—making it a sensory experience. Molly, the guide, provides detailed background info, making the tasting session both educational and enjoyable. The reviews highlight the interesting background stories and the quality of the spirits, with a 4.5/5 rating based on two reviews. The main caveat? After sampling a few shots, you might want to avoid driving home!
This tour is perfect for anyone curious about craft spirits or looking for a unique way to understand Welsh craftsmanship. It’s also a good choice for those interested in local culture, as the spirits are infused with Welsh inspiration.
Bottom line: If you enjoy learning about spirits and tasting high-quality drinks, this tour offers a memorable, hands-on experience in a relaxed setting.
2. Cocktail Lovers Masterclass
Next up is the Cocktail Lovers Masterclass, which scores a perfect 5/5 from recent reviews. This two-hour session is ideal for anyone wanting to impress friends with new skills or just have a fun night out. The class guides you through creating a trio of cocktails, including a special Welsh-inspired drink.
What sets this masterclass apart? You’ll get hands-on experience in mixing, muddling, and shaking. Plus, you’ll learn about the ingredients and techniques that make each cocktail special. The class uses spirits from the Spirit of Wales Distillery, so you get a taste of local flavors while honing your bartending skills. An added bonus? The music quiz and prize element add extra fun to the evening. Reviewers praise the “good fun” and the ability to make cocktails at home afterwards.
This experience is perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a lively night in Newport. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of entertainment mixed with learning. The two-hour format makes it a manageable, engaging experience for most.
Bottom line: A lively, interactive way to learn cocktail-making while enjoying Welsh spirits, ideal for social groups or anyone wanting a memorable night out.
3. Newport: Discover Newport! A walking tour
If you prefer exploring on foot, the Discover Newport! walking tour is a fantastic choice. Scoring a perfect 5/5, this 1.5-hour tour offers an immersive look into Newport’s cultural and industrial heritage. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll stroll through the city center, discovering landmarks, artworks, and lesser-known spots.
The tour highlights include the unusual Newport Castle—an essential stop for history lovers—and the many mosaics adorning the streets, which add color and character. The guide also shares stories about Newport’s industrial past, showing how the town evolved from a bustling center of industry to today’s vibrant community.
Ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, or anyone wanting a leisurely yet informative walk, this tour offers great value for its 1.5-hour length. Reviewers love the mix of interesting facts and hidden gems that aren’t on most tourist maps.
Bottom line: If you want a balanced, engaging look at Newport’s history and culture, this walking tour is a smart choice—you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the town.
4. Drinks Tasting with a game of Music Bingo
For an evening of fun and flavor, the Drinks Tasting with Music Bingo is a lively option. Rated 4.7/5, this two-hour experience pairs sampling Welsh gins and rums with an entertaining game of Music Bingo. It’s perfect for those who want to try local drinks in a social setting.
During the tasting, you’ll explore premium Welsh spirits from the Spirit of Wales Distillery, learning about each drink’s unique qualities. The event is designed to be friendly and relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and discuss flavors. The music bingo game adds a playful twist, making the evening more memorable. Reviewers mention the “fun-filled atmosphere” and the opportunity to discover new favorite drinks.
This event suits groups of friends, couples, or even solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging night out. It offers excellent value for the combination of tasting and entertainment.
Bottom line: A great way to enjoy Welsh spirits and socialize, especially if you like a bit of friendly competition and lively music.
5. Make a bottle of gin or rum at our distillery
Finally, for a hands-on experience, the Make a bottle of gin or rum session is a standout. At 2.5 hours, it gives you plenty of time to learn the art of distilling and craft your own customized bottle to take home. This immersive experience is perfect for those who want to go beyond tasting and actually create their own spirit.
Participants will learn about the distillation process, selection of ingredients, and flavor blending. The highlight is designing a personalized bottle—whether you prefer a sweeter gin or a spiced rum. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to learn the craft firsthand and leave with a unique souvenir. The detailed instructions and interactive format make this experience both educational and fun.
This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, DIY enthusiasts, or gift seekers. Its longer duration means you should plan for a relaxed afternoon or morning. The opportunity to make a drinkable, personalized bottle sets this apart from more passive experiences.
Bottom line: If you’re into hands-on activities and want a memorable keepsake, this distillery experience is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting the right tour in Newport, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re curious about spirits and love tasting, the Guided Distillery Tour or Make a bottle of gin or rum are excellent choices. For a lively, social evening, the Cocktail Masterclass or Music Bingo fit the bill. History and culture enthusiasts will enjoy the Discover Newport! walking tour for its insightful narrative and local sights.
Think about your travel style—are you looking for a quick, focused visit or an immersive, hands-on experience? Budget also plays a role; some tours provide more value through included tastings and activities. Be sure to check availability and book early, especially for popular experiences.
In The Sum Up
Newport UK offers a range of engaging tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want to sip award-winning spirits, learn to craft cocktails, explore the city’s history on foot, or make your own bottle of gin or rum, there’s something for all. For a blend of education and fun, the distillery tours stand out, while the walking tour provides a relaxed way to discover the town’s character.
If you’re planning a trip, consider booking early to secure your spot. With options suited for casual visitors and dedicated enthusiasts alike, Newport’s tours promise memorable experiences worth sharing. Just remember: if you’re sampling spirits, have a designated driver or plan for a safe return. Enjoy your trip and cheers to discovering all that Newport has to offer.