The Lakes Distillery
History of The Lakes Distillery
The Lakes Distillery, situated in the picturesque Lake District in England, has a relatively brief yet fascinating history, given its establishment in 2011. Its location, near Bassenthwaite Lake, is steeped in natural beauty and heritage, providing an idyllic setting for whisky making.
The distillery’s conception was the brainchild of its founder, Paul Currie, who harboured a passion for whisky and a vision to blend traditional distillation methods with innovative techniques. He aimed to produce spirits that reflect the unique character and beauty of the Lake District.
The Lakes Distillery officially commenced operations in 2014. It is one of England’s select few whisky distilleries and the largest in North England. Its establishment was a significant milestone, marking a revival of an ancient craft in a region historically known more for its natural beauty than for spirit production.
The distillery prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, including water from the River Derwent and traditional methods. It produces a range of spirits, including single-malt whisky, gin, and vodka.
The whisky production process is meticulous, involving carefully controlled fermentation, distillation, and maturation stages. The Lake District’s unique climate contributes to their spirits’ distinct flavour profiles.
In addition to its production prowess, the distillery has become a popular tourist destination. It offers tours, tastings, and a visitor centre, allowing enthusiasts to explore the art of spirit-making and the region’s history.
The Lakes Distillery’s products have garnered critical acclaim and awards, contributing to the rising profile of English whisky on the global stage. Their expressions often balance innovation and tradition, reflecting the region’s heritage and a modern approach to spirit production.
Though its history is short compared to many historic distilleries, The Lakes Distillery has quickly established a reputation for quality and innovation, reflecting the spirit of the Lake District in every bottle.
Awards Won by The Lakes Distillery
- World Whiskies Awards: Recognised for “Best English Single Malt” and “Best English Blended Malt.”
- Whisky Magazine Awards: The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.4 won “World’s Best Single Malt Whisky.”
- International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC): Received accolades, including gold medals.
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC): Multiple gold medals for superb taste and quality.
- Spirits Business Awards: Honoured for their whiskies’ exceptional character and flavour profiles.
The Lakes Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Flask & Barrel Review of The Lakes Distillery
As a whisky collector who’s been on my fair share of distillery tours, I must say my visit to The Lakes Distillery was a delightful surprise. I’d rate it a solid 4.7 out of 5.
From the get-go, the setting of the distillery in the picturesque Lake District adds a certain charm you don’t find everywhere. The drive there was a treat in itself, with stunning views all around.
The tour was thorough and informative. Having seen many distilleries, I appreciated the blend of traditional methods and modern innovation they’ve embraced. The guide was knowledgeable and had a way of making the complex whisky-making process understandable and engaging.
Not every day you find a tour that balances depth of information with accessibility so well. What stood out for me was the tasting session.
As someone who prides themselves on their whisky collection, I was impressed by the quality and unique character of their spirits, especially The Whiskymaker’s Reserve. It had a complexity and richness that was a testament to their craftsmanship.
The only reason I’m holding back from a perfect score is the slight rush in the latter part of the tour. I understand the constraints, but as an enthusiast, I always yearn for more time delving into the finer details of the whisky-making process.
In summary, The Lakes Distillery is a must-visit for any whisky lover. It’s not just about tasting great whisky; it’s about experiencing the passion and expertise that goes into every bottle. Highly recommended!
What To Do Nearby The Lakes Distillery
Exploring the Lake District National Park: Just a stone’s throw away from the distillery, this national park is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers stunning landscapes, numerous hiking trails, and picturesque lakes. You could spend a whole day or even more exploring the scenic beauty of this area.
Bassenthwaite Lake: Located just 300 metres from The Lakes Distillery, Bassenthwaite Lake offers beautiful walks and views. It’s perfect for a stroll to soak in the Lake District’s tranquil surroundings and beauty.
Whinlatter Forest: A bit further afield but worth the visit, Whinlatter Forest presents an opportunity for adventurous outdoor activities, including mountain biking and forest walks. It’s a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Keswick and Derwentwater: Approximately a short drive from the distillery, the charming market town of Keswick and the idyllic Derwentwater Lake offers a range of activities from shopping to boat rides.
Cultural Attractions: The area is rich in cultural attractions, including historical sites like castles and museums. You can immerse yourself in the local history and heritage of the Lake District.
Dining and Accommodation: There are various accommodation options within a reasonable distance from the distillery, ranging in price. You can choose from cosy hotels to more luxurious stays, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Additional Activities: The region offers a range of activities, from scenic boat rides, and visiting historical buildings and gardens to exploring quaint villages. Each activity provides a unique way to experience the Lake District’s local culture and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near The Lakes Distillery?
Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +441768877789. Their address is Croft Holiday Park, Bridge End Farm (Herdwick, Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4RD, United Kingdom.
Shills of Cockermouth Restaurant & Delicatessen: This is a 4.4-star restaurant per Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +441900826427. Their address is 11 South St, Cockermouth CA13 9RU, United Kingdom.
De Brito Craig’s Wheatsheaf Inn: This gastropub stands out with a rating of 4.7 stars. However, the contact number is +441768776416 and the address is Wheatsheaf Inn, Embleton, Cockermouth CA13 9XP, United Kingdom.
What hotels are near The Lakes Distillery?
The Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +441768776234. Their address is Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth CA13 9YE, United Kingdom.
Castle Inn Hotel by BW Signature Collection, Keswick: It has a rating of 3.8 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +443330034087. Their address is Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4RG, United Kingdom.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +441768776551. Their address is B5291, Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick CA12 4RE, United Kingdom.