The Plymouth Gin Distillery is perhaps not the first place you'll think about visiting when you are in Plymouth, UK. But, if you are taking a leisurely vacation, it's worth a visit. The distillery has been producing the famous Plymouth Gin for many years and recently was sold to the Scandinavian group V&S, famous for their Absolut Vodka. Plymouth's distinctive flavor has gained more recognition in the recent years, surpassing the popularity of London Dry Gin.

The original distillery still stands on the barbican in Plymouth's Southside Street. A bar and bistro are located above and a considerable display of historical distillery equipment can be found here. It's believed that some of the Pilgrim Fathers stayed here while the Mayflower was been repaired at the harbor before setting sail to North America once again. Gin was the original cheap alcoholic beverage in UK, mostly purchased by the poor and caused much agony for the society. While Navy Rum was distributed among the common seamen to mellow them, officers preferred to guzzle Gin and it was no longer the poor man's delight, spreading even into golf clubs run by the Empire. The British Royal Navy deployment eventually led to the widespread consumption of Gin.

The Plymouth Gin Distillery is the only English Gin still made at its original factory. The same recipe has been in use since 1793. With a new visitor's center located at the distillery, visitors can opt to take tours around the site. You can visit the Black Friars Distillery and learn about the history of Gin and then taste the range manufactured there. The Distillery Shop offers the entire range on sale and a number of gifts and memorabilia. A cocktail lounge created in an original refectory hall design offers contemporary bar settings for relaxation. The Cafe JDI serves delicious west countryside cuisine for visitors.

Don't forget to take a tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery when you're enjoying a quiet time in Plymouth, England. You can choose to stay at any Plymouth hotel nearby or venture towards a hotel in Plymouth Devon if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. The Copthorne Hotel Plymouth is an excellent option for anyone looking for comfort, service and modern amenities to make their stay a pleasantly memorable one.