Hooting Owl Distillery York – Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting

If you’re visiting York and have a taste for spirits, the Hooting Owl Distillery offers an experience that blends history, craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned fun. This one-hour-and-fifteen-minute tour is led by a master distiller who shares the fascinating story of Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins and his legendary creations. Our review dives into what makes this tour a standout, from the intimate group size to the impressive range of spirits, all wrapped in a cozy York setting.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational insights with plenty of tasting opportunities, making it perfect for both enthusiasts and casual drinkers. The welcoming atmosphere at the distillery, the engaging storytelling, and the chance to sample up to 25 different spirits all add up to a memorable outing. Plus, the fact that you can stay at the bar afterward and soak in the environment makes it a great way to extend your visit.

One potential consideration is the size—maxing out at 12 travelers—so booking in advance is wise if you want to secure a spot. The ticket price of around $41 is quite reasonable given the variety of spirits and the depth of information provided. This tour really suits those curious about gin and spirits, history buffs who enjoy storytelling, and anyone looking for a relaxed, authentic experience in York’s vibrant city scene.

Good To Know

• Authentic storytelling: The tour brings to life Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins’ legend and the distillation process.
• Variety of spirits: You’ll sample 25 different artisan spirits distilled on-site, including gin, rum, and vodka.
• Expert guidance: Led by a knowledgeable distiller, the experience is both fun and educational.
• Post-tour relaxation: Stay at the bar after your tasting to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.
• All-inclusive pricing: No hidden fees; everything, including samples, is included.
• Ideal for spirit lovers: Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or casual taster, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

The Experience in Detail

The Setting and First Impressions

Located at 1 Rougier Street in York, the Hooting Owl Distillery occupies a charming space that immediately feels inviting. The tour begins at 2:00 pm and is capped at 12 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate environment. From the start, it’s clear that this is more than just a commercial operation; it’s a passion project with a story to tell.

Guided Tour: Learning from a Master

Led by a talented distiller—often praised for their knowledge and engaging style—the tour takes you through the entire process of spirit-making. Expect a virtual “Tour de Yorkshire,” complete with stories about Sir Owlfred Tyton Hodgins, whose recipes are still the foundation of the distillery’s offerings. One reviewer noted how the guide, Tom, was “excellent” and knew his stuff, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

You’ll see the stills up close, learn about the ingredients, and understand what makes Hooting Owl’s spirits unique. The distiller’s anecdotes and detailed explanations help bring the process to life, transforming what could be a dry lesson into a lively conversation. As one reviewer put it, the guide “made the tasting extremely fun,” which is key to making this tour memorable.

Tasting the Range

The highlight of the experience is the tasting session. You get a welcome sample of gin, rum, or vodka with a mixer of your choice—an excellent way to kick things off. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to sample up to 25 spirits, all crafted right on-site. The selection includes a variety of gins, and some reviewers mentioned enjoying the rum and vodka as well.

The diversity of spirits means you’ll likely find something you love, whether it’s a traditional gin, a spiced rum, or a smooth vodka. One guest recalled, “the gins speak for themselves,” highlighting their quality and distinct flavor profiles. The tasting is generous, with full measures offered, and no pressure to buy.

Atmosphere and Post-Tour Relaxation

After the formal part of the tour, the bar remains open from 11 am to 11 pm daily. Guests are encouraged to stay, sip on their favorites, and soak up the friendly ambiance. The bar staff—praised for being engaging and knowledgeable—are happy to chat about their spirits or recommend pairings.

Several reviews mentioned how the atmosphere contributed to the overall experience. One remarked, “Big thank you to [the host] for making it so enjoyable,” emphasizing the importance of personable guides and welcoming surroundings.

Additional Perks

The tour’s price of around $41 offers excellent value considering the number of samples, the storytelling, and the opportunity to relax afterward. The experience is fully booked last week—highlighting its popularity among visitors. Plus, since it’s a mobile ticket, it’s easy to check in and start your journey into the world of Yorkshire spirits.

Practical Details

How to Book and What’s Included

• Meeting Point: Hooting Owl Distillery, 1 Rougier St, York
• Start Time: 2:00 pm
• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Price: About $41.18 per person
• All Costs Included: Spirits, tours, and tastings—no hidden fees
• Booking: Book in advance, especially since it’s popular with over 79 glowing reviews and a 5-star rating

Accessibility and Group Size

The tour is designed for small groups—max 12 travelers—which fosters a more personal experience. Service animals are allowed, and the location is near public transport, making it easy to include on your York itinerary.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the tour. Last-minute changes or cancellations won’t be refunded, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many visitors highlighted their guides—particularly Tom and Martin—who brought a wealth of knowledge and personality to the experience. One guest said, “Tom knew his stuff and made the tasting class,” while another appreciated Martin’s professionalism and fun attitude.

The majority of reviews praised the spirits—especially the gin—for their quality and flavor. One customer exclaimed, “the gins speak for themselves,” underlining the craftsmanship behind the products. The atmosphere was also a recurring highlight, with guests noting how the friendly staff made everyone feel at home.

Why It Works Well

The combination of storytelling, tasting, and relaxed atmosphere creates a well-rounded experience. For those interested in spirits, this is a rare opportunity to connect with the craft behind each bottle, guided by experts who genuinely enjoy sharing their passion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a gin lover or curious about spirits in general, this tour offers a fantastic blend of education and tasting. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking an authentic experience, or those wishing to combine a fun activity with a little bit of local history. The relaxed bar setting afterward makes it perfect for unwinding with friends or family.

It’s also a good pick for visitors who appreciate storytelling, craftsmanship, and good company—plus, it provides insight into a distinctive Yorkshire brand.

The Sum Up

The Hooting Owl Distillery tour in York offers much more than just a tasting. It’s a chance to learn about the art of spiritmaking from passionate guides, sample an extensive range of top-quality products, and enjoy a warm, inviting environment afterward. The small group size and all-inclusive pricing make it a great value, especially for those who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Yorkshire’s craft spirits scene.

Ideal for gin enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone in search of a memorable, educational outing, this tour hits the right notes. If you’re in York and want to add a little spirit to your trip, booking this experience should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This experience is designed for adults, as it involves spirit tasting. Children and underage guests would not participate in the tasting but can likely observe the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The guided experience lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, leaving plenty of time to relax at the bar afterward.

Are spirits included in the price?
Yes, all spirits sampled during the tour are included, with no hidden charges.

Can I stay at the bar after the tour?
Absolutely. The bar remains open from 11 am to 11 pm, and guests are welcome to stay and enjoy their drinks.

Is this tour good for gin newbies?
Yes, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it accessible for those new to spirits or casual drinkers.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is capped at 12 travelers to ensure a personal experience.

What is the price per person?
It’s approximately $41.18, which includes all tastings and the tour itself.

How do I book this experience?
Booking can be done online through the provided link, with confirmation sent immediately. It’s best to book in advance due to its popularity.

In all, the Hooting Owl Distillery tour offers a well-rounded, engaging introduction to Yorkshire spirits. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking for a fun, authentic activity, this experience promises a memorable glimpse into the craft and history behind each bottle.