Experience the fine spirits of the Lakes Distillery
The Lakes Distillery is the largest distillery in England and set, beautifully, amongst the picturesque Cumbrian hills beside Bassenthwaite Lake.
What is it?
Formerly a Victorian model farm, the beautiful buildings were carefully converted in 2013 to preserve the character and history of the old barns and sheds. The old main barn houses the mash house and still house of the distillery, while old cattle sheds make up the rest of the complex.
The Lakes Distillery opened late in 2014 and its passionate team works to produce fantastic quality blended whisky and one of the finest gins and vodkas available in the UK. Single malt whisky will also be available from 2018 and is currently maturing nicely. The spirits are produced on an artisan scale so there is no need for mass production, and guests can enjoy tours around the site to see how it's all done.
Tours
The distillery tours guide you through the history of distilling and are great for those visitors interested in learning about what makes the Lakes' spirits and the distillery location so special. You will hear all about your favourite spirits and will even get to sample the goods at the end of it all.
The tour will take you on a visual journey from the source of the river Derwent all the way to the sea before moving on to the distillery house itself to see the process in action. The professional tour guide will happily answer all your questions and then lead you through the tasting session.
Following the tour guests are very welcome to explore the distillery's spectacular surroundings and unwind in the gardens. Say hello to the family of alpacas that live there or take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river Derwent.
Extras
Onsite is the gift shop, so any souvenirs you might want to purchase can all be taken care of here. The shop sells exclusive Lakes Distillery products and your tour ticket includes a £5 discount voucher for any 70cl bottle purchased here.
There is also a bistro and bar onsite so you can really make a day of it. The bistro caters for all tastes, so you can enjoy a pick-me-up coffee and slice of cake or perhaps stop in for something more substantial and have a three-course evening meal, trying out the drinks menu while you're here.
Where is it?
The distillery enjoys a fantastic location by Bassenthwaite Lake:
The Lakes Distillery, Cumbria, CA13 9SJ
A free bus service from Routledge transport travels between Keswick to the distillery between July and September.
Book a tour:
01768 788857
Make a reservation at the Bistro:
01768 788852
Or visit their website to find out more info:
Stay in the stuning Lake District and visit the distillery for yourself. Braithwaite Court is located just 10 minutes away and makes an ideal self-catering base from which to explore. Follow the link below to find out how.