Sheffield: Gin Distillery Tasting Visit with Guided Tour

Sheffield’s Locksley Distilling offers a charming introduction to the art of gin-making, perfect for those curious about small-batch spirits. For around $24.25, you get about an hour and a half of engaging behind-the-scenes insights, tastings, and a warm Yorkshire welcome. The tour takes place inside the Portland Works, a historic Grade 2* listed building dating back to 1879, which adds a layer of character to the experience.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch—with a small group limited to just 10 people, you’re never lost in the crowd. Plus, the chance to see a working artisan distillery in action, creating products in-house, makes for an authentic and educational visit. We also appreciate the guided tasting, where you’ll learn the story behind each botanical ingredient, making each sip more meaningful.

A small consideration is that finding the location can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with Sheffield, especially since the distillery cannot display external signage for insurance reasons. However, a quick call or meeting outside the gate on Randall Street solves this problem easily. This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits lovers, history buffs, or anyone eager to understand the craftsmanship behind their favorite gin.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate look into gin-making without breaking the bank, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy authentic, handcrafted experiences and want to support independent producers. Whether you’re a seasoned gin fan or just curious, this visit offers a perfect blend of education, tasting, and Yorkshire friendliness.

Key Points

• Authentic Small-Batch Experience: Learn from passionate artisans who keep production in-house.
• Personalized Guided Tour: Small group size ensures detailed insights and friendly interaction.
• Tastings Included: Sample a range of gins and enjoy a Locksley G&T in a beautiful setting.
• Historic Setting: Located inside the striking Portland Works, a Grade 2* listed building.
• Educational Focus: Discover the botanical choices and distilling process in an approachable way.
• Great Value: At around $24.25 for 1.5 hours, it offers an affordable, memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Venue: Portland Works and Sheffield’s Industrial Heritage

From the moment you arrive outside the gate on Randall Street, you’re stepping into a piece of Sheffield’s industrial past. Portland Works, built in 1879, was originally a hub for stainless steel fabrication and now houses Locksley Distilling. The setting is unusual for a distillery — a historic industrial building that adds a layer of authenticity and charm.

The interior is warm and inviting, with the smell of botanicals and spirits in the air. The fact that the distillery is small and independent means you’ll notice the attention and care they put into every batch. This isn’t a mass-production operation; it’s craftsmanship in action.

The Guided Tour: Behind the Scenes of Gin Production

Your guide, possibly Jake or another passionate team member, will lead you through the distilling process. Expect to see their equipment and learn how each product is created from start to finish. One of the praised aspects from reviews is the detailed insight into their methods, which helps you appreciate what makes their gins special.

The owners and team are eager to share their story, from how they started to their ongoing commitment to quality. This narrative adds depth to the tasting and gives you a sense of connection to the product.

The Tasting: A Flavorful Journey

Once you’ve seen the process, it’s time to taste. The guided tasting session introduces you to their core range, explaining the botanical choices and how they influence flavor. You’ll enjoy a Locksley G&T served sunshine-filled glass — perfect to start or as a light refreshment.

Guests note that the experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind each sip. You’ll learn the stories, the ingredients, and the passion that go into each bottle. Plus, the tasting includes some special brews, which adds a bit of excitement for connoisseurs.

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The Experience: Friendly, Informative, and Relaxed

Reviews highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides. For example, Jake’s engaging and approachable manner makes complex distilling processes understandable without feeling technical or intimidating. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Many guests purchase bottles after the tour, often lamenting they should have bought more. The online store makes it easy to get more later, but experiencing the product firsthand is a highlight.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 1.5 hours, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
• Price: At $24.25, it offers excellent value considering the guided tour and tastings.
• Availability: Check ahead for start times, as they vary.
• Meeting point: Outside the gate on Randall Street — a quick phone call if you have trouble locating it.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and warm clothing — the venue is historic, and the weather can vary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone interested in artisan craftsmanship. It’s perfect if you prefer small-group, intimate tours where you can ask questions and get personalized attention. The relaxed vibe and the delicious tasting make it suitable for casual explorers and serious gin fans alike.

While not suited for children under 18, adults of all ages will appreciate the local charm and authenticity of this distillery tour. If you’re in Sheffield or nearby, it’s a memorable way to add a hands-on, flavorful experience to your itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of around $24.25, you’re not just paying for a tour — you’re gaining an educational and sensory experience that reveals Sheffield’s craft spirit tradition. The combination of historic setting, passionate guides, and delicious tastings makes this a standout activity for those who value authenticity and craftsmanship.

The personal touch provided by Locksley Distilling, along with their dedication to quality, ensures that this isn’t just a quick tasting but a meaningful insight into small-batch gin production. It’s a perfect choice for curious travelers wanting to support local artisans while enjoying a genuinely friendly Yorkshire welcome.

If you’re after a culinary, cultural, and historic adventure in Sheffield, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience at a fair price.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is only for guests 18 and over, due to alcohol tastings.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to see the distillery and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet outside the gate on Randall Street. If you have trouble, a quick call will usually resolve it.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially since the venue is located inside a historic industrial building.

What is included in the price?
A guided tour, a Locksley G&T, and tastings of their core range plus special brews are included in the price.

Is there a shop where I can buy more gin?
Yes, after the tour, you can purchase bottles, either on-site or via their online store, which is convenient if you find a favorite.

This Sheffield gin tour combines local history, craftsmanship, and friendly guidance into a genuinely enjoyable outing. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or just curious about the process, it offers a well-balanced, authentic taste of Yorkshire hospitality and artisan spirit making.

You can check availability for your dates here: