Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Tasting (Gin & Rum)

Experience the Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Tasting in Warwickshire

If you’re visiting Stratford-upon-Avon and want a genuine, hands-on taste of local craftsmanship, the Shakespeare Distillery is a delightful stop. For around $26, you get about an hour and fifteen minutes of guided exploration into the art of craft gin and rum making. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour combines education, tasting, and a peek behind the scenes of one of the only working distilleries in the area.

What we really love about this experience is how personal and authentic it feels. The guides are clearly passionate about their craft, sharing stories that make the spirits’ journey from grain to glass fascinating. Plus, the tasting session at the end is both generous and thoughtfully curated, giving you a real appreciation for small-batch artisan spirits. On the downside, since it’s a distillery, expect to be on your feet for a while, and children under 8 aren’t permitted, which might be a consideration if you’re traveling with young kids.

This tour suits curious travelers who enjoy learning about local food and drink production, especially those who appreciate well-made spirits. It’s particularly ideal for adults looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Stratford that goes beyond typical sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic craftsmanship: Learn how small-batch gin and rum are made by passionate artisans.
Tasting experience: Sample three award-winning spirits before choosing your preferred drink with mixers.
Educational and engaging: Guides share stories that make the distillation process fascinating.
Great value: The $26 price includes the tour, tastings, and a 10% discount at the gift shop.
Accessibility: The tour is on the ground floor, wheelchair friendly, with soft drinks for designated drivers and children.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now, pay later.

Keen to taste more of Stratford Upon Avon? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Gin Tasting at Judiths, Shakespeare Distillery

A Close Look at the Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Tasting

Location and Setting

The Shakespeare Distillery is situated near Stratford-upon-Avon, in Warwickshire, making it a perfect add-on for those exploring Shakespeare’s hometown. The charming setting adds to the experience, with the distillery being actively operational—this isn’t a static museum but a working workshop. The accessible, ground-floor layout ensures that most visitors, including those with mobility issues, can comfortably enjoy the tour.

What’s Included and How It Works

For approximately 75 minutes, you’ll join a guided tour led in English by friendly, knowledgeable staff. The experience begins with a walkthrough of the distillery, where you’ll see first-hand how artisan gin and rum are distilled, bottled, and labeled. You’ll get to mingle with the team, learning about their dedication to small-batch production—each step done by hand, emphasizing quality and care.

After the educational part, it’s time for the fun: a tasting session featuring three award-winning spirits. The guides tutore you through each, explaining the flavors and what makes each spirit special. You then select your preferred drink—gin and tonic or rum with a mixer—to enjoy in the cozy tasting lounge. If you’re a designated driver or traveling with kids (ages 8-17), soft drinks are available; meanwhile, adults can opt for a 5cl miniature if they prefer not to indulge.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Spirits and Tasting

Based on reviews, the spirits are consistently praised for being delicious and well-crafted. The tasting of three spirits is generous, and the emphasis on quality and craftsmanship shines through. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the session lively and informative, encouraging questions and conversations.

While you're exploring Stratford Upon Avon, here are other experiences we've looked into

Additional Perks

At the end of your visit, you receive a 10% discount to use in the gift shop, which stocks a variety of spirits and souvenirs. This adds to the overall value, especially if you want to bring home a special bottle or two.

What Past Visitors Say

Multiple reviews highlight how engaging and informative the guides are. Expect to hear praise like, “The team are so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their craft,” and “The tastings were great, and the gin and rum were delicious.” Many note that the tour is suitable for all ages, with soft drinks available for kids and drivers, making it a family-friendly activity on the whole.

Practical Considerations

Duration: 75 minutes, perfect for fitting into a busy day without feeling rushed.
Price: At about $26, the cost covers the tour, tastings, and a discount—good value for a memorable experience.
Accessibility: Fully on the ground floor with accessible facilities.
Age Restrictions: Must be 18+ to participate in tastings; children under 8 not permitted.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What truly makes the Shakespeare Distillery experience special is its focus on craftsmanship and authenticity. It’s more than just tasting spirits; it’s about understanding the passion behind each bottle. The guides’ genuine enthusiasm brings the process to life, making it a memorable part of any Stratford visit.

The tasting is a highlight—not just because the spirits are flavorful, but because of how approachable and well explained they are. As one reviewer put it, “The tour itself was informative but told in a way that kept your interest right the way through.” It’s clear that this experience is designed to entertain and educate, appealing to spirits enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

This tour offers great value for travelers who want a deeper appreciation of Britain’s artisanal spirits, coupled with the added charm of being located in Shakespeare’s hometown. It’s especially enjoyable for those who enjoy small, intimate group experiences where they can ask questions and really connect with the craft.

The Sum Up

The Shakespeare Distillery Tour & Tasting is a top choice for visitors seeking an authentic, interactive, and tasty experience in Stratford-upon-Avon. For just over $25, you get an engaging look into the world of small-batch gin and rum making, with the chance to sample some award-winning spirits. Guides are passionate, the setting is accessible and cozy, and the tasting provides a genuine appreciation for craftsmanship.

While it’s not suitable for young children or those who dislike spirits, it’s perfect for adults interested in local food and drink, or anyone looking for a memorable, behind-the-scenes activity. The combination of education, flavor, and authentic production makes it a standout experience that complements Shakespeare’s historic town.

If you’re a curious traveler who loves discovering local craftsmanship, this tour will give you a new perspective on British spirits—and perhaps a favorite bottle to bring home.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 are not permitted on the tour, and participants must be 18 or over to participate in tastings. Soft drinks are available for kids and designated drivers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 75 minutes, giving enough time to see the distillery process and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the guided tour, tasting of three spirits, a choice of gin & tonic or rum & mixer, a 10% shop discount, and soft drinks for non-drinkers.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later — offering flexible planning options.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Absolutely. The entire tour takes place on the ground floor, with accessible facilities, including a washroom and parking.

What spirits are sampled during the tasting?
You’ll sample three award-winning gins and rums, with explanations provided about their unique flavors and production process.

Can I buy spirits after the tour?
Yes, the gift shop offers bottles and souvenirs, and you’ll receive a 10% discount on purchases made during your visit.

Do I need to bring ID?
Yes, a valid ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.) is required to verify your age, especially if you look under 25, due to the Challenge 25 policy.

Is this tour suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s a popular activity for small groups and families (over 8 years old), making it a fun way to enjoy Stratford with friends or loved ones.

Whether you’re a spirits lover or just curious about the craft behind your favorite drinks, the Shakespeare Distillery offers a warm, authentic, and well-organized experience. It’s a perfect addition to your Stratford itinerary—delivering a taste of local craftsmanship with a dash of history and fun.