The Beefeater Distillery in Kennington is where Beefeater gin is still hand-crafted to a recipe that is virtually unchanged since the 1800s.
London, one of the world’s great cities, has played a leading role in the development of London Dry Gin, one of the world’s great drinks. From the dawn of English gin distilling, the history of London and Beefeater Gin has been closely intertwined.
Housed in an Edwardian building with a 1950s extension, the Beefeater Distillery features original Victorian pot stills and a botanical room, where the fresh ingredients are stored. A custom-built visitor centre allows connoisseurs to see the original stills, view the distilling process and learn about the history of gin in London. In 1876 the Chelsea Distillery, located on Cale street, opens under control of the Taylor family. This would go on to become the first home of Beefeater Gin. Over the years to keep up with demand, the location moves into bigger and better premises before the gin receives great success over international waters. In more recent years, 1995 to be exact, a new Master Distiller is appointed – Desmond Payne who goes on to create Beefeater 24, Beefeater’s Burrough Reserve and London Garden Gin.
