Sheffield: Gin Distillery Tasting Visit with Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of spirits or simply curious about the craft behind your favorite gin, this Sheffield distillery tour offers a perfect blend of education and tasting. Set in the historic Portland Works, this 1.5-hour experience is designed to give you a close-up look at how small-batch gin is made, paired with plenty of opportunities to sample their signature products. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or just looking for a fun, authentic activity in Sheffield, this tour provides a memorable peek into the art of gin-making without feeling stuffy or overly technical.

What sticks out most about this experience? First, the passion of the team at Locksley Distilling is palpable—they love sharing their craft. Second, the setting inside a Grade II listed building with a fascinating history adds a distinctive charm. Third, the guided tastings are comprehensive, including insights into botanical choices and the distillery’s evolution. One thing to keep in mind is that the group size is limited to 10, which enhances the intimacy and allows for personalized attention. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy discovering local artisan businesses and want a taste of Yorkshire hospitality.

Good To Know

• Authentic Small-Batch Production: Experience a distillery committed to quality and craftsmanship.
• In-Depth Guided Tour: Learn about gin production, history, and botanical selection from expert guides.
• Tastings Included: Sample a range of gins, including Locksley’s core range and special brews.
• Historic Setting: Located inside Portland Works, a building with a long industrial history.
• Personalized Experience: Limited to 10 participants for a relaxed, engaging visit.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and pay later options make planning easy.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Setting: Portland Works and Sheffield’s Spirit

Starting at the iconic Portland Works, you’ll step into a building that has been part of Sheffield’s industrial landscape since 1879. Once a hub for stainless steel manufacturing, this Grade II listed site now hosts Locksley Distilling, where passionate artisans craft their gin in a space filled with character. The vintage brickwork and historical significance of Portland Works add a special touch, making it more than just a tasting room—it’s a glimpse into Sheffield’s proud industrial past.

The team at Locksley, led by owners with over 10 years of distilling experience, welcomes visitors warmly. Their dedication is evident, and their pride in producing high-quality, small-batch spirits shines through. If you’re someone who appreciates craftsmanship and authentic local stories, this setting immediately pulls you in.

What the Tour Entails

Entry and Welcome

To start, you’ll meet your guide outside the gate on Randall Street. The friendly staff prefers to keep the entrance discreet—no outside signage, which helps maintain the private, exclusive feel. After a quick introduction, you’ll be let inside to begin your exploration.

Guided Walkthrough of the Distillery

The tour is designed to be engaging and accessible. Expect to walk through the distillery space, which is compact but packed with equipment and stories. The hosts enjoy sharing not only technical details but also the inspiration that drives their craft. A key highlight from reviews is the enthusiasm of guides like Jake, who makes complex processes understandable and entertaining.

Visitors get to see the entire process—grain to glass—under the stewardship of passionate artisans who keep everything in-house. This hands-on approach emphasizes their commitment to quality and control, resonating with those who value transparency and craftsmanship in what they drink.

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The History and Philosophy

Part of what makes this experience stand out is the narrative woven into the tour. The owners’ journey, the evolution of Locksley Distilling, and the company’s ethos of artisan production feature prominently. It’s not just about the liquid but also the story behind each bottle—something many visitors find compelling, especially since reviews mention the outline of the distillery’s creation and growth.

Tasting Session

The heart of the experience is the guided tasting. Here, you’ll sample an ever-growing range of gins, including their signature core range. The tasting is described as warm and inclusive, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Guests learn about the botanical choices that define each gin, gaining insights into what makes Locksley’s products distinctive.

One reviewer noted, “there were plenty of samples to try,” making the experience both educational and fun. Another mentioned they “bought a bottle for later,” highlighting the quality and appeal of the products. The inclusion of a Locksley G&T—sunshine in a glass—during the tasting adds a refreshing, social touch to the visit.

Practical Details and Value

The price point of approximately $24.25 per person offers good value for an immersive 1.5-hour experience. For that cost, you get access to a behind-the-scenes tour, expert insights, and multiple tastings. Considering that some other activities in the area might cost more for less engagement, this experience stands out as an accessible, worthwhile option for spirits lovers.

The small group size (limited to 10) ensures personalized attention and plenty of interaction. This setup helps you feel more like a guest in the distillery rather than just a visitor. Plus, the flexible booking policies—free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand—mean you can plan with confidence.

The Experience: Authentic, Friendly, and Engaging

Guests consistently describe the tour as informative yet approachable. The guides, like Jake, are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. One reviewer said, “We were met outside after a couple of phone calls,” which underscores the importance of punctuality and flexibility in logistics.

The setting inside Portland Works combines industrial charm with a vibrant, creative atmosphere. The history of the building adds an extra layer of interest, and the distillery’s commitment to in-house production reassures visitors of the quality behind each bottle.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for artisanship enthusiasts, local history buffs, and spirits lovers alike. If you’re looking for a relaxed activity that combines education with tastings, this tour offers that in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s also great for those who appreciate stories—both about the distillery’s history and the botanical choices that influence each gin.

However, it’s worth noting that children under 18 are not permitted, so this isn’t suitable for families with young kids. Also, if you’re after a fast-paced, large-scale tour, this might feel a little more laid-back than some might prefer.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is Worth It

This Sheffield gin distillery tour offers a genuine look into the craft of small-batch gin production, paired with friendly Yorkshire hospitality. The combination of an historic setting, passionate guides, and ample tastings makes it a memorable activity for anyone interested in spirits or local industry.

If you value authentic stories, expert guidance, and hands-on tasting experiences, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy personalized, engaging activities that go beyond just sipping from a distance. The modest price, coupled with the quality of the experience, makes this a standout option in Sheffield.

For those wanting a relaxed yet informative snapshot of artisanal gin-making, this tour hits the perfect balance. It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, leaving you with new knowledge—and perhaps a new favorite gin.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed on this distillery tour.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the guided tour and tastings.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially since group sizes are limited to 10 participants. You can also cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, and warm clothing in case the weather is chilly. The venue is indoors, but a little extra comfort never hurts.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet outside the gate on Randall Street, and your guide will come to let you in. It’s a discreet entrance with no external signage for privacy.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a guided tour, tastings of various gins, a Locksley G&T, and a warm Yorkshire welcome.

Is there an online store for their products?
Yes, the reviews mention an online shop, so you can buy bottles to enjoy later.

Can I make this tour a private experience?
While the tour is limited to small groups, private bookings are not explicitly mentioned, so it’s best to inquire directly with Locksley Distilling.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Specific details aren’t provided, but since the tasting involves spirits and botanicals, it’s best to ask the hosts beforehand if you have concerns.

This Sheffield gin distillery tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that’s perfect for those wanting to peek behind the scenes of artisan spirit-making, taste some superb gins, and enjoy a warm Yorkshire welcome. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon with a genuinely passionate team.

You can check if your dates are available here: