Plymouth Gin Distillery

Plymouth Gin Distillery (Blackfriars Distillery) is one of Plymouth’s most fascinating visitor attractions, blending centuries of history with the art of gin making right in the heart of the historic Barbican. Housed in the Black Friars Distillery, parts of the building date back to the early 1400s, with the medieval Refectory Room – complete with a remarkable timber-roof – still at its heart, making it one of the city’s oldest surviving structures.

Visitors can take guided tours that reveal how Plymouth Gin has been produced here since 1793, learning about its distinctive recipe and maritime heritage along the way. The tours typically include a tutored tasting, giving you a chance to sample classic expressions such as the original Plymouth Gin and Plymouth Sloe Gin, and discover what makes this Devon spirit so unique.

Beyond the history and production process, the distillery offers a memorable social experience: many tours finish in the Refectory cocktail lounge, where you can relax with expertly crafted gin drinks against the backdrop of historic stone walls. There are also connoisseur and master distiller tours available for deeper insight – including more extensive tastings or hands-on gin-making activities for those wanting something extra special.

Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply curious about Plymouth’s maritime past and local craftsmanship, this distillery presents a lively, informative and distinctly Devon attraction. Its mix of heritage architecture, local flavour and tasting experiences makes it a standout cultural stop on any trip to Plymouth.