My husband and I had a thoroughly enjoyable and informative morning at Laverstoke. The site is impressive, combining the best of 18th century and modern architecture. Staff were welcoming and well-trained in customer service. The workshop was led by Sean (or possibly Shaun??) who had a very high level of expertise and knowledge that he imparted with enthusiasm and humour. We learned a lot - and not only how to make good gin-based drinks, but also about social history. This was followed by a tour of the production unit, which again was interesting and led by an enthusiastic guide. All in all, a stimulating mornng that was excellent value for money.
I booked tickets to visit yesterday with my mum and sister for my sisters birthday and an early mothers day present for our mum. I didnt know this place existed but it was recommended by a friend. The venue was very easy to find with lots of parking, it helped that we went on a nice day as there is some walking outside. It's clear that the venue is very new as everything was beautifully maintained. We took the self guided tour and wandered around ourselves, however when you enter the distillery you do have a guide. Our guide Jordan not only possessed excellent knowledge, but was also very authentic and added some fun to the tour. I was simply amazed by how environmentally friendly the distillery is and we learnt a surprising amount about the history of gin and the brand. The tour ends with a visit to the bar for a complementary cocktail but as I was driving I had a lovely non alcoholic cocktail and was also able to get a takeaway pack of gin and tonic. We spent about 2 and a half hours here but if you are non drivers you could spend longer. We particularly enjoyed the shop and bought some goodies, the best part for me was seeing how much the others enjoyed their visit. For £15 entry, I think this is good value and a very civilised way to spend a afternoon. If you are thinking about it, go ahead and book. You can also buy a gift voucher for entry which is a really original idea for those tricky to buy for people.
We spent a lovely afternoon making cocktails in a fabulous setting. Really good value for money as you get 2 drinks in the class and another afterwards. The setting is stunning and lots of effort (and, no doubt, money) has gone into making it a place worth finding. I'm already planning my next visit with my gin-loving dad for Fathers' Day.
I visited the site as an afternoon getaway for my mother and I. Lovely location, great to see such an old site have so much investment pumped into it (wonderfully done I might add!) We were on the 'self discovery' tour so armed with a map wandered round. Some of the interactive displays for the plants in the greenhouses had hints of screen burn, but that's me being very picky. Only let down was the weather, so didn't get to enjoy as much of the sights/sounds as we'd have liked. On a summers afternoon the place would be perfect. Might have to venture back later on in the year :)
The whole site is lovely - quiet ,stunning location on the river Test The buildings have been beautifully maintained and the Glass Houses add a charm of their own The guides are all very knowledgeable and the hands on experience in the Botanical Dry Room is very good The whole place is first class The interactive map is an excellent way to guide visitors on the tour .The complimentary cocktail is a nice touch & if you choose the non- acholic drink you are given your Gin & Tonic to take home
My 20 year old daughter & I went for the afternoon and we both thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A beautiful, quiet & calming location. We stayed on for the cocktail making class too. Good fun. Make sure you have a driver as after 3 cocktails and a further 2 to taste we weren't fit to drive anywhere!It's a shame the council won't allow them to have a cafe/small restaurant as it would have been a nice place to have lunch. You can however get a coffee/tea/hot chocolate and a slice of home made cake.I wouldn't take small children.
All staff amazing! We enjoyed the gin masterclass experience hosted by Sean what a great way to spend any afternoon. Sean was informative, humorous and a great host. A special mention to Louise our guide around the factory. She was also brilliant. Cant waiIt to return. I wish I was planning a big event as this would be a amazing place to hold it...
Took my husband and a couple of friends as a birthday treat. Not a gin drinker myself but we all thoroughly enjoyed the cocktail masterclass with Melody, who was lovely and knowledgable. The buildings were stunning and the glasshouses, river and surroundings worth the visit. Take a camera. All the staff: tour guides, bar staff and shop lady were very welcoming and nothing was too much trouble. Would definitely recommend.
I was given a voucher to visit the Bombay Gin Distillery at Laverstoke, near Whitchurch and enjoyed a trip out to the venue on a chilly February morning. The building is a sensitive conversion to distillery with interesting 'whispering' points for information (very high tech!) , friendly, informative guides (real people!) and hands on (noses on!) exhibits.We also really enjoyed the cocktail bar - well you would wouldn't you?!All that's missing is a restaurant/cafe , though you can buy coffee in the gin shop.
Not previously being a Gin drinker I was a little sceptical about this team night excursion. However what a wonderful surprise.Great tour with the end being in the bar for several cocktails..Only thing missing was the Blue Umpa Lumpas.. Great time had by all..