A Journey Through Botanicals: The Art of Gin at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery

There are places that serve drinks, and there are places that tell stories with them. Tucked away in the quiet Hampshire countryside, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke Mill offers a sensory experience unlike any other a place where gin is not just crafted, but brought to life.

Arriving at the distillery feels like discovering a hidden world. A canopy of trees gives way to a stunning blend of heritage and innovation: an 18th-century paper mill lovingly transformed into a world-class gin distillery, framed by glasshouses that shimmer like dewdrops in the morning sun. The architecture alone designed by Thomas Heatherwick is enough to draw a breath. But this is only the beginning.

The experience is wonderfully immersive from the outset. You're not ushered through a generic factory tour. Instead, you’re invited into the alchemy of gin-making, guided through each step by a blend of storytelling, craftsmanship, and interactive discovery. There's something enchanting about standing among the towering copper stills, where botanicals from all over the world like Moroccan coriander, Spanish almonds, and Tuscan juniper are vapor-infused to create Bombay Sapphire's signature flavour.

What makes this distillery visit truly special is how personal it feels. One of the highlights is the Botanical Dry Room, where you’re encouraged to smell and select your favourite scents from the ten botanicals used in the gin. It’s unexpectedly intimate; you begin to understand your palate in a new way, and realise just how much personality a spirit can carry. This interactive element sets the experience apart it’s not about passive watching, it’s about actively engaging with your senses.

After the tour, the Mill Bar awaits. Perched alongside the River Test, it’s a bright, airy space with bartenders who know their craft and cocktails that are nothing short of art. Whether you choose the

classic Sapphire & Tonic or opt for something seasonal and experimental, every sip carries the story of the journey you’ve just taken. And for those who want to dive deeper, the Gin Cocktail Masterclass is a must. Guided by a Bombay mixologist, you learn to mix, shake, and stir like a pro while gaining a deeper understanding of balance, aroma, and finish. It’s hands-on, fun, and just the right amount of indulgent.

What lingers after the visit is not just the flavour of the gin, but the feeling that you’ve witnessed something crafted with true care. The Bombay Sapphire Distillery isn’t just a destination for gin lovers it’s a place where design, sustainability, and storytelling come together to create an unforgettable day.

Whether you're planning a special outing, a weekend countryside escape, or simply curious about where one of the world’s most iconic gins is made, Laverstoke Mill is a stop worth making.

Plan Your Visit

To explore the range of experiences and book your visit, head to the official Bombay Sapphire Distillery website: www.bombaysapphire.com/distillery.

Connect with Bombay Sapphire

Stay updated and inspired by following Bombay Sapphire on social media:

• Instagram: @bombaysapphireuk

• Facebook: Bombay Sapphire UK

• Twitter: @BombaySapphire