The Distillery, a boutique hotel dedicated to gin, has opened on London’s famous Portobello Road.
Housed in a former pub, the property spans four floors focused on gin culture and craft. Features include two bars, a gin museum, a hands-on gin experience center, an off-license shop, a 400-liter gin still, a private dining room and three unique guestrooms.
“Not only does the new distillery mean we can continue to produce our product on Portobello Road, it has allowed us to expand our hugely successful gin-making experience, The Ginstitute, which had outgrown its original venue,” said Ged Feltham, founder of Portobello Road Gin and The Distillery. “The most exciting parts of the project are the new and unexpected opportunities that have come with a development of this size and scale. We are proud purveyors of London spirit and we look forward to exciting guests from around the globe with amazing gin and other wonderful new distillates and aged spirits.”
The ground-floor pub, called the Resting Room, showcases spirits distilled on site and a selection of inventive blends, from avocado-infused creations to olive-oil vodkas. The bar serves classic cocktails alongside international spirits, some presented from hand-made barrels suspended from the ceiling, creating a distinctive atmosphere.
On the first floor, GinTonica brings a Spanish-inspired bar and kitchen experience. Head chef Greg Lewis has developed a menu that complements the gin program and pays tribute to the traditional Copa de Balon glass used for serving gin and tonic in Spain.
The Ginstitute offers a participatory experience where guests can craft their own gin while learning about the spirit’s 300-year history. The hands-on sessions combine distillation education with tasting and blending guidance, making it suitable for both novices and enthusiasts.
Beyond its bars and workshops, the hotel integrates distillery operations into its hospitality, giving visitors direct access to the production process and a deeper appreciation for small-batch spirits. The combination of museum exhibits, tasting sessions and culinary pairings creates a full-sensory visit that highlights London’s gin heritage while showcasing contemporary creativity in distilling and mixology.
With limited guestrooms and an emphasis on experiential offerings, the Distillery appeals to travellers seeking boutique stays centered on craft drinks, food and storytelling. Its location on Portobello Road places it amid one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods, making it a destination for both locals and international visitors interested in artisanal spirits and immersive experiences.
Whether attending the Ginstitute, enjoying a meal at GinTonica or sampling bespoke spirits in the Resting Room, guests can expect a thoughtfully curated blend of history, hands-on learning and contemporary bar culture that celebrates gin and its evolving role in modern hospitality.