The Old Smiddy Gin School in Stirling, Scotland, offers a unique hands-on experience for gin enthusiasts. Located within the historic Stirling Distillery, the school invites guests to craft their own bespoke gin, selecting from a range of botanical ingredients. With a 4.5-star rating and rave reviews, the school’s interactive atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it an ideal destination for groups and celebrations. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or simply curious about the distillation process, the Old Smiddy Gin School promises an engaging and memorable experience in a charming, rustic setting. What secrets might this historic distillery hold?
Good To Know
- The Old Smiddy Gin School offers a hands-on gin-making experience in a historic 18th-century blacksmith’s forge located in Stirling, Scotland.
- The 2-hour private tour allows participants to craft their own unique gin using a selection of bespoke botanicals.
- The experience includes a welcome cocktail, tastings of Stirling Gin’s offerings, and the opportunity to take home a personally crafted bottle.
- The gin-making tour is praised for its informative and interactive nature, as well as the knowledgeable staff who guide participants through the process.
- However, the strict cancellation policy and parking challenges should be considered when booking the gin-making experience at The Old Smiddy Gin School.
Location and Ratings
The Old Smiddy Gin School is located in Stirling, Scotland, and has earned a stellar 4.5-star rating from 29 reviews.
This gin-making experience is ideal for gin lovers, offering a hands-on tour where participants can create their own unique gin. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and is conducted as a private experience for your group.
Priced at $166.99 per person, the Old Smiddy Gin School provides an engaging and informative opportunity to explore the history and science of gin distillation.
Hands-on Gin-making Tour
Participants embark on a captivating gin-making journey at the Old Smiddy Gin School. The two-hour experience immerses guests in the science and history of gin distillation.
Visitors choose from a selection of bespoke botanicals to create their own unique gin. They’ll learn the art of the perfect gin and tonic while sampling Stirling Gin’s favorites.
As the tour progresses, participants gain hands-on experience in the gin-making process, culminating in the opportunity to take home their personally crafted bottle.
With knowledgeable hosts leading the way, the interactive experience offers gin lovers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the spirit’s complexities in a historic Scottish setting.
Highlights of the Experience
Visitors to The Old Smiddy Gin School are greeted with a welcome cocktail upon arrival, setting the tone for an immersive gin-making experience.
Participants then explore gin’s captivating history and the science behind distillation. The highlight is choosing from a selection of bespoke botanicals to craft a unique gin.
Guests enjoy tastings of Stirling Gin’s favorites and learn to make the perfect gin and tonic. The experience culminates with attendees taking home their handmade gin, a tangible memento of their distillery adventure.
Throughout, knowledgeable staff guide visitors, ensuring an engaging and informative journey into the world of artisanal gin.
Accessibility and Transportation
To reach The Old Smiddy Gin School, guests can head to the Stirling Distillery, located at 9 Lower Castlehill, Stirling FK8 1EN, UK.
The tour ends back at the meeting point. While the distillery isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed.
Public transportation is nearby, though parking can be challenging. The distillery recommends considering taxi options to make the most of the gin-making experience.
Customer Feedback Insights
Positive reviews of The Old Smiddy Gin School highlight the informative and fun nature of the tour, with guests praising the knowledgeable staff and ample gin tastings.
Visitors commonly comment on the engaging hosts, the interactive gin-making process, and the welcoming atmosphere.
However, some reviewers have noted difficulties with parking and recommend considering taxi options.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for The Old Smiddy Gin School experience.
The tour is non-refundable, which means customers can’t get their money back if they cancel. This policy aims to ensure the distillery can staff and prepare for the private groups that book the tour.
While the gin school offers a unique opportunity to learn and enjoy gin, the strict cancellation terms may deter some potential customers.
Those interested should carefully consider their schedules before reserving their spots, as no refunds will be issued for missed tours.
Historic Setting and Atmosphere
The Old Smiddy Gin School is housed in a historic former blacksmith’s forge, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about gin production in a charming and atmospheric setting. The building’s original features, including exposed beams and stone walls, create a captivating ambiance that transports guests back in time. The following table highlights some key aspects of the historic setting:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Retains original 18th-century blacksmith’s forge design |
| Decor | Rustic, with exposed beams and stone walls |
| Location | Centrally located in Stirling, Scotland |
| History | Formerly a working blacksmith’s shop |
The historic nature of the venue adds to the overall immersive gin-making experience, allowing participants to fully appreciate the rich heritage of this beloved spirit.
Ideal for Parties and Groups
Owing to its unique and historic setting, the Old Smiddy Gin School offers an exceptional opportunity for parties and groups to learn and enjoy gin in a captivating environment.
The private tour allows groups to enjoy the art of gin-making, from exploring its history to crafting their own unique blend. With the knowledgeable staff guiding the way, guests can expect an engaging and interactive experience, complete with tastings of Stirling Gin’s finest offerings.
Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique group activity, the Old Smiddy Gin School provides an unforgettable way to discover the world of gin in a charming, historic setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Botanicals?
No, participants don’t need to bring their own botanicals. The experience includes selecting from a variety of bespoke botanicals to create a unique gin during the hands-on gin-making tour.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no formal dress code for the gin tour. Participants can wear comfortable, casual attire. The tour focuses on the gin-making experience, so guests don’t need to worry about dressing up. The priority is having an enjoyable and informative time.
Can I Bring My Own Gin to Taste?
No, you can’t bring your own gin to taste. The gin school provides a selection of their own bespoke gins for tastings as part of the experience. Bringing outside spirits is generally not permitted.
How Much Gin Can I Take Home?
As part of the gin-making experience, participants can take home the bottle of gin they create. The amount is typically a full 700ml bottle, allowing them to enjoy their personalized gin after the event.
Are There Any Food Options Available?
The experience does not include any food options. It focuses solely on gin-making and tastings. Participants are welcome to enjoy a welcome cocktail upon arrival, but no additional food is provided during the 2-hour tour.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
The Sum Up
The Old Smiddy Gin School in Stirling Distillery offers a unique hands-on gin-making experience. Guests can craft their own signature gin while learning about the history and distillation process. With a 4.5-star rating, the school is praised for its knowledgeable staff, interactive atmosphere, and ample tastings, making it an ideal destination for groups and celebrations in a charming, historic setting.