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Sheffield: Gin Distillery Tasting Visit with Guided Tour
This gin tasting tour at Locksley Distilling in Sheffield offers an engaging 1.5-hour experience for those interested in craft spirits. Priced at just $24.25 per person, the tour combines a guided walk-through of a small-batch distillery with tastings of their growing range of gins and botanical brews. Located within the Portland Works, a grade 2 listed building dating back to 1879, this tour offers a blend of history, artisan craftsmanship, and flavor exploration perfect for spirits enthusiasts or curious visitors.
Known for its passionate team and focus on quality, Locksley Distilling has been producing spirits since 2015. The tour’s small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and sample different products. The cost-effective price, combined with expert-guided tastings and the chance to meet the owners, makes this tour a standout choice for those seeking an authentic artisan distillery visit in Sheffield. However, careful planning is recommended, especially for those who may have trouble finding the location or need to ensure comfortable footwear and warm clothing.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Price: Only $24.25 per person for a 1.5-hour experience.
- Location: Situated inside Portland Works, a historic Sheffield building from 1879.
- Experience: Includes a guided tour, botanical insights, and tastings of Locksley’s core range.
- Group Size: Limited to 10 participants for a more intimate setting.
- Highlights: Meet the owners, learn about small-batch distilling, and enjoy a Locksley G&T.
- Suitability: Ideal for artisans, spirits fans, and history buffs; not suitable for children under 18.
Planning more time in Sheffield? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Exploring Sheffield’s Historic Portland Works
The tour begins at Portland Works, a grade 2 listed site built in 1879. This historic setting was once a hub for stainless steel manufacturing and now hosts Locksley Distilling. Visitors are welcomed into this breath-taking building, which combines industrial heritage with modern craft spirits. The distillery’s home is not just a workspace but also a visual reminder of Sheffield’s proud manufacturing past.
Seeing the original architecture and historic features adds a layer of appreciation for the artisan process behind the gin. The dedicated team creates all their products in-house, ensuring quality control and authenticity. While the location may be a bit tricky to find—especially since no external signage is permitted—a couple of phone calls usually resolve the issue, and the team will meet visitors outside.
The Guided Tour: Behind the Scenes of Small-Batch Gin Making
The guided tour leads visitors through the distillery’s interior, revealing the process of gin creation. The owner-led insights include details about the botanical selection, distillation techniques, and production ethos. The small size of the operation means an up-close view of the equipment and hands-on explanations.
As part of the tour, visitors receive a detailed history of Locksley Distilling, including its growth and development since 2015. The focus on keeping every element of production in-house highlights the artisan nature of the spirits. This behind-the-scenes look is particularly interesting for those curious about small-batch craftsmanship and local spirit production.
Tasting the Range: Expert Guidance and Botanical Insights
The main highlight of the experience is the guided tasting session. Visitors learn about each product’s origin story, botanical choices, and flavor profiles. The expert guide helps decode the ingredients that give each gin its distinctive character, making the tasting both educational and delicious.
Included in the experience is a Locksley G&T served in a sunshine-ready glass, offering an immediate taste of the distillery’s signature style. The range of products is described as ever-growing, reflecting the distillery’s ongoing experimentation and commitment to quality. Many guests find themselves buying bottles to take home, with some expressing regret they didn’t purchase more on the day.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sheffield Setting: A Historic Industrial Backdrop
The tour’s setting within Portland Works provides a unique industrial backdrop that enriches the experience. Built in 1879, the grade 2*** listed building was once a center for stainless steel manufacturing. Today, it offers a dramatic setting for the artisanal distillery, blending industrial heritage with modern craft spirits.
This historic environment adds depth to the storytelling, connecting Sheffield’s industrial past with its current artisan spirit scene. Visitors appreciate the authenticity and character of the location, which enhances the overall experience.
Meeting the Team and Learning Their Passion
Throughout the tour, visitors meet the dedicated team behind Locksley Distilling. The owners often appear during the tasting, sharing their passion and vision for the brand. The enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, particularly those like Jake, are frequently praised in reviews for making the experience engaging and informative.
Guests especially enjoy hearing about the history and growth of the distillery, connecting the craft process with the local community. The warm Yorkshire hospitality shines through, making the visit feel personal and welcoming.
The Taste Experience: Exploring a Growing Range of Gins
Participants taste through a variety of gins, with descriptions that explain the botanical ingredients used. The core range reflects a commitment to quality and creative experimentation. The tastings are generous, with plenty of samples that suit those keen to discover different flavor profiles.
Many guests find the gin flavors to be delicious and well balanced, often leaving with bottles they plan to enjoy later. The owner’s stories about the origin and inspiration behind each product add a personal touch to the tasting.
Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Planning Tips
The meeting point is outside the gate on the corner of Randall Street, where the guide will meet visitors. The activity runs for 1.5 hours, with starting times available depending on the day. Pre-booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially since the group is limited to 10 participants.
Participants are advised to bring passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes, and dress in warm clothing. The tour is not suitable for children under 18, emphasizing its grown-up focus.
A Unique and Accessible Sheffield Experience
This gin distillery tour offers a personalized, informative, and delicious look at Sheffield’s craft spirits scene. The small-group format ensures plenty of interaction, while the historic setting provides a visual connection with the city’s industrial legacy.
Though some may find finding the location a challenge, the friendly team makes the effort worthwhile. The value at $24.25 includes a guided tour, tastings, and a Locksley G&T, making it a cost-effective way to explore Sheffield’s artisan distilling.
Sheffield’s Locksley Distilling: A Must-Visit for Spirit Enthusiasts
This tour is perfect for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and local production. The passionate guides, historic setting, and variety of tastings make it a memorable experience. The owner’s stories and small-batch focus foster a personal connection to Sheffield’s artisan spirit scene.
While the location might require some effort to find, the warm welcome and delicious gins compensate. This tour is most suited for adults interested in learning about gin, craft spirits, or local Sheffield history. It’s an experience that balances educational insight with the pleasure of tasting.
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Sheffield: Gin Distillery Tasting Visit with Guided Tour
“We were taken around by Jake, who was very enthusiastic and informative. The tour lasted 1.5 hours and there were plenty of samples to try. It was …”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Sheffield gin distillery tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What is the price per person?
The experience costs $24.25 per participant.
Where does the tour start?
It begins outside the gate on the corner of Randall Street.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 18.
What is included in the experience?
Guests receive a guided tour, botanical insights, a Locksley G&T, and tastings of the core range.
Can I buy bottles to take home?
Many participants purchase bottles during or after the tasting session, but the experience itself doesn’t specify if bottles are available for sale on-site.
What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and dress warm.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.
What makes this distillery special?
Its historic location, small-batch craftsmanship, and personalized guided experience set it apart from larger, less intimate distilleries.
