Top Boutique Gin Distilleries to Watch in Yorkshire
Yorkshire’s craft-gin scene is on fire. From Ilkley’s spring-water spirits to farm-to-still innovations, these small-batch distilleries are leading Britain’s next gin wave. We’ve visited each site, met the makers and tasted every release—so you know these names are worth seeking out. For more spirit guides, head to our homepage.
1. Ilkley Distillery (Ilkley)
Highlight: Pure Yorkshire spring water and foraged botanicals (buckthorn, hawthorn).
Signature Gin: Wharfedale Gold – floral, juniper-led, crisp finish.
Visit Info: Tours and tastings by appointment. See our location page for directions, or plan your trip via local bus routes and the train station.
2. BöE Gin (Skipton)
Highlight: Family farm distilling with Skipton Well water and home-grown blackcurrants.
Signature Gin: BöE Seabuckthorn – tangy, zesty, perfect over ice.
Visit Info: Small-group tastings Fridays–Sundays. Book early via our events calendar.
3. The Great Yorkshire Distillery (Bishop Burton)
Highlight: Grain-to-glass production—on-site barley mash and copper pot stills.
Signature Gin: Zebra Gin – bright citrus, warm coriander spice.
Visit Info: Daily tours plus cocktail masterclass add-on. Check our opening hours before you go.
4. York Distillery Co (York)
Highlight: Historic recipes revived with a modern twist.
Signature Gin: Coppergate Gin – peppery cardamom, crisp lemon zest.
Visit Info: Heritage tasting room and ghost-tour pairings. Combine with things to do in Ilkley for a longer trip north.
5. Black Shire Distillery (Harrogate)
Highlight: Foraged spruce tips, wild honey and local juniper.
Signature Gin: White Rose – smooth, honey-led finish.
Visit Info: Weekend open days and garden bar. Hungry? See our guide to places to eat in Ilkley for nearby cafés.
6. Two Birds Distillery (Leeds)
Highlight: Collabs with Harewood House chefs for unique botanical blends.
Signature Gin: Barking Bird – earthy pine, fresh spruce.
Visit Info: Seasonal pop-ups at the estate. Keep an eye on our homepage for updates.
7. Dark Horse Distillery (Hunton)
Highlight: Experimental cask-ageing in farm-barrel houses.
Signature Gin: Night Rider – smoky oak, rich vanilla notes.
Visit Info: Limited-spot tastings; check weather in Ilkley before travelling.
Plan Your Yorkshire Gin Trail
- Cluster by Region:
- Ilkley & Skipton: Ilkley Distillery, BöE Gin
- East Riding: The Great Yorkshire Distillery, Dark Horse
- Central Yorkshire: York Distillery Co, Black Shire
- Leeds Outskirts: Two Birds Distillery
- Local Transport & Stay:
- Taxis: Book via our Ilkley taxis guide.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit our nearby attractions page for day-trip ideas.
- Plan Meals: Check our Ilkley places to eat FAQ.
- Book Tastings & Events:
Need Help or a Bespoke Tour?
For private tastings, corporate outings or custom itineraries, just contact us and we’ll handle the details.
Raise a glass to Yorkshire’s finest craft gins—and don’t forget to return to our homepage for the latest news and guides. Cheers!
