Gin Making Experience

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into crafting a perfect gin or wanted to try your hand at distilling your own spirit, the Gin Making Experience at The Gin Nest in Devon offers an engaging, hands-on journey. This private class combines education, fun, and a little bit of artistry—plus, you get to take home a personalized 500ml bottle of your very own gin. With glowing reviews and a focus on personal attention, it’s clear this experience is a hit among gin enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What we love most is how interactive and personal this tour feels. The friendly guides, like Leanne and Paul, don’t just teach—they entertain, share stories, and make the process accessible even for complete beginners. But a small caveat? The experience lasts about two hours, so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule who enjoy a relaxed, immersive activity. Overall, if you’re in Devon, this tour is perfect for friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, tasty adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring plenty of one-on-one attention.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about gin’s history, botanicals, and distillation methods in an engaging, approachable way.
• Tasty Tasting Breaks: Enjoy gin, wine, or tonics during the process, enhancing the experience.
• Create Your Own Spirit: Design your label, choose botanicals, and bottle your custom gin—great for gifting or keepsakes.
• Excellent Value: For around $83, you get a full, hands-on session plus a personalized bottle—considered very good value.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere, earning a perfect 5-star rating from all reviews.

A Closer Look at the Gin Making Experience

Setting and Location

The Gin Nest is conveniently situated in Torquay, Devon, and boasts a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately puts visitors at ease. Meeting here means you’re close enough to explore other local attractions after your session, but it’s also easily accessible by public transport—a plus for those not driving.

Booking and Group Size

Booking is straightforward, with an average lead time of about 23 days, so planning ahead is advisable if you want to secure a spot. The tour caps at 16 participants, meaning you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. Many reviewers, such as the one who mentioned attending with just their husband, appreciate the intimate, personalized feel.

Duration and Schedule

Expect around 2 hours of engaging activity, offering enough time for instruction, tastings, and hands-on distilling. You can choose a morning or afternoon start, accommodating different schedules comfortably. The flexibility ensures you won’t have to rush through your experience.

The Distilling Process

The core of this experience is using a traditional copper pot still—a classic tool that gives the process an authentic touch. Guides like Leanne and Paul are praised for their expert knowledge and friendly approach. They walk you through the history, styles, and methods of gin production, making complex processes accessible and fun.

Hands-On Crafting

Here’s what makes this tour memorable: you aren’t just watching—you’re actively involved. You’ll select your own botanicals, which can be a lot of fun—reviewers mention that Andy’s advice on choosing ingredients was particularly helpful. The guides also assist with labeling your bottle, giving your spirit a personal touch. Many guests leave with a handcrafted 500ml bottle of their own gin, which is a fantastic souvenir or gift.

Tasting and Beverages

Throughout the session, you’ll enjoy gin and tonics or even wine, provided as part of the experience. This not only keeps the mood lively but also helps you appreciate how different botanicals and distillation influence flavor. One reviewer noted being supplied with G&Ts during the process, which added to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

The Personal Touch

What sets The Gin Nest apart is the dedicated attention from guides like Leanne and Paul. Reviewers repeatedly mention how knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging they are. One said Paul was “passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference in how much you get out of the experience.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowing. Many describe the experience as “brilliant,” “fun,” and “well worth the price.” Guests loved the informative guides, with one reviewer saying, “Paul kept us supplied with G&Ts throughout,” adding a casual, enjoyable vibe to the class.

The ability to design your own label and take home a custom gin is frequently highlighted as a highlight. Reviewers like the fact that their bottles were unique and personalized, making it a perfect gift idea or keepsake.

Several reviews mention how the experience is suitable for various occasions—birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out. One called it “a must-do if you’re in Torquay,” emphasizing its appeal for visitors seeking local, authentic activities.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

• One guest appreciated the “very informative” session about gin’s history, botanicals, and distillation methods, making the learning process fun and accessible.
• A couple mentioned that they didn’t leave sober—adding a humorous touch to the relaxed environment.
• Many guests noted how helpful guides like Leanne made the process easy, even for first-timers.
• Pricing is seen as good value, especially considering the bespoke bottle and hands-on experience.

Practical Details for Planning Your Visit

Cost and Value

Priced at approximately $82.81 per person, this experience offers considerable value when you consider the personalized attention, the educational aspect, and the custom bottle of gin. Compared to simply tasting different gins at a bar, this experience provides a memorable, educational, and creative activity.

Accessibility and Transportation

Located conveniently in Torquay, The Gin Nest is near public transportation and easy to reach. Service animals are allowed, making it accessible for all travelers.

Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, which is a generous window and allows for some peace of mind when planning your trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This gin-making class is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by the craft of distilling. It also appeals to couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun, hands-on activity that results in a tangible keepsake. The intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable guides make it enjoyable for beginners, while even seasoned gin lovers will appreciate the depth of insights.

If you’re someone who values authentic, local experiences over commercialized tours, this private class offers a genuine taste of Devon’s craft spirit scene. It’s also a fantastic gift idea for someone who loves gin or is interested in learning more about spirits.

The Sum Up

The Gin Making Experience at The Gin Nest in Devon delivers a delightful mix of education, fun, and personal achievement. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach make the process accessible and entertaining, while the chance to craft and bottle your own gin adds a memorable, personalized touch. For a reasonable price, you gain not just a new skill but a tangible souvenir—your very own bottle of bespoke gin.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy interactive activities and want a deeper understanding of gin’s craft. It’s also perfect for celebrating special occasions or just adding a unique twist to a trip in Devon. With consistently high reviews praising its value, atmosphere, and expert guides, it’s a top recommendation for anyone looking for an authentic, hands-on spirits experience.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy for first-timers to follow along and enjoy the process.

Can I choose my own botanicals?
Yes, you can select your botanicals during the session, which allows you to customize your gin.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 2 hours, providing enough time for instruction, tastings, and creating your gin.

Is there a limit to group size?
Yes, the tour is capped at 16 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What is included in the price?
You get a private, hands-on gin-making class, tastings of gin and wine, and your own 500ml bottle of personalized gin to take home.

Is the experience accessible by public transport?
Yes, the location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or just looking for a unique activity in Devon, this gin-making experience offers a perfect blend of learning, crafting, and tasting. Prepare to leave with a new appreciation for gin—and your very own bottle of handcrafted spirit.