London Gin tasting and Masterclass

Our review of the London Gin tasting and masterclass at Greenwich offers a chance to uncover the spirit’s history, enjoy expert-led tastings, and pick up some fantastic discounts. While we haven’t personally participated, this experience is renowned for its engaging format and knowledgeable guides. At just under $36, it promises a compact yet insightful peek into London’s beloved juniper spirit, making it a great option for both casual enthusiasts and budding connoisseurs.

Three reasons stand out: the convenient Greenwich location, the mix of historical storytelling with tasting, and the chance to buy quality gin at a discount afterward. One potential consideration is that this experience doesn’t include a full distillery tour—so if you’re after a behind-the-scenes look at production, you might want to combine it with a separate visit. Overall, it’s perfect for those interested in learning about gin’s role in London’s culture, or simply looking for a fun, affordable activity in the Greenwich area.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a sociable experience, appreciate learning about spirits, or want a taste of London’s maritime heritage linked to gin. Whether you’re a curious tourist or a local looking to deepen your knowledge, this masterclass offers genuine value wrapped in a friendly, accessible package.

Good To Know

• Educational and Entertaining: Learn about gin’s history, styles, and distillation methods from expert guides.
• Location Advantage: Situated in the historic Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage site, close to river transport.
• Tastings of Award-Winning Gins: Sample four different gins, each with distinct botanical profiles.
• Exclusive Discounts: Receive 10% off bottles and cocktails after the session, adding value.
• Short and Sweet: At about 45 minutes, it’s a quick but comprehensive experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized interaction and expert attention.

An In-Depth Look at the Greenwich Gin Masterclass

The Setting: Greenwich’s Historic Charm

Located inside the Old Royal Naval College, the Greenwich Gin distillery benefits from its prime location within a UNESCO World Heritage site. The proximity to riverboat services makes it easy to combine with other Greenwich sightseeing, like the Cutty Sark or the National Maritime Museum.

The tasting rooms are cozy yet well-organized, offering a relaxed environment for sipping and learning. The setting itself adds a layer of maritime history, echoing the connection between gin and London’s naval past.

What the Experience Includes

The session begins with a welcome Greenwich Gin & Tonic, a perfect way to settle in and start the journey. From there, a knowledgeable guide walks through a short history of gin, emphasizing its importance in London’s social and maritime history. According to a reviewer, the masterclass was “fantastic, very interactive and organized,” with a particular highlight being the guide’s ability to explain complex distillation processes in an accessible way.

Learning about Distillation and Botanicals

One of the most appreciated parts of this experience is the explanation of distillation methods—the difference between traditional pot stills and modern techniques. You’ll learn why different botanicals are used, how they influence flavor, and the connection to Greenwich’s maritime exploration history.

The guide also introduces you to Greenwich Gin, sharing its story and how it embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery. You’ll sample four award-winning gins, each showcasing a unique botanical profile, from zesty citrus to herbal notes. A reviewer remarked, “We learned about the ingredients used to make gin and the various styles, which made the tasting both educational and enjoyable.”

Tasting and Buying Opportunities

While tasting, you’ll enjoy a guided review of the botanicals and flavors, helping you identify your favorites. The tasting is intimate, with only 12 participants, allowing for plenty of interaction and questions. Afterward, you get a 10% discount on bottles and cocktails—a nice perk if you want to take a piece of the experience home.

The Guide’s Expertise

The reviews highlight the guides’ wealth of knowledge and engaging manner. One reviewer said, “The masterclass was fantastic—very interactive and organized,” pointing to the quality of the guiding. Expect to hear stories that blend history, distillation science, and cocktail tips, making the session feel more like a lively chat than a lecture.

Price and Value

At $35.95 per person, this experience is a good deal considering the quality of education, the tasting, and the discounts offered afterward. It’s a short, focused activity, ideal for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing or as a fun evening activity. The reviews support its value, with visitors noting how much they learned and enjoyed the interaction.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 45 minutes, making it easy to slot into your schedule.
• Location: Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich.
• Meeting Point: The Greenwich Distillery Shop & Tasting Rooms.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 for personalized attention.
• Booking: Recommended 35 days in advance; flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This masterclass is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, history buffs, or those simply seeking a fun, educational activity in Greenwich. It offers a taste of London’s gin heritage without requiring a full-day commitment, making it ideal for a quick cultural break. It’s also suitable for visitors of legal drinking age who want to explore the city’s craft drinks scene in a relaxed environment.

The Sum Up

The London Gin tasting and masterclass provides a well-rounded, engaging introduction to one of London’s most iconic spirits. Its combination of historical context, expert guidance, and quality tastings creates a memorable experience that’s both fun and informative. The small group size and discounts on bottles make it a great value, especially for those interested in spirits or looking to deepen their appreciation for gin.

While it doesn’t include a full distillery tour, it more than makes up for it with its focus on storytelling and tasting. The Greenwich location adds charm and convenience, making it a perfect addition to a Greenwich or London itinerary.

This experience suits those who want an authentic, intimate look into gin’s role in London’s culture—whether as a souvenir or simply as a new interest.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
No, participants must be over 18 years old to partake in the tasting.

Does the tour include a distillery visit?
No, it does not include a full distillery tour, focusing instead on tasting and learning.

How long does the masterclass last?
Approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick yet comprehensive session.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, and rescheduling may be possible depending on availability.

Is there a discount for groups?
Yes, group discounts are available, and the experience is limited to small groups of 12 travelers.

What’s included in the price?
A welcome Greenwich Gin & Tonic, a guided tasting of four gins, a brief history of gin, and 10% off bottles and cocktails.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At the Greenwich Distillery Shop & Tasting Rooms, inside the Old Royal Naval College.

Is it easy to get to the location?
Yes, the location is near public transportation, with riverboat services also available for easy access.

This Greenwich-based gin experience is a lively, educational outing that offers insight, tasting pleasure, and great value—all set within a historic London landmark.