Ludlow Distillery - The home of Ludlow Gin & Whisky

History of Ludlow Distillery

Founded in 2018, Ludlow Distillery is a young but ambitious producer nestled in the heart of Shropshire, England. The distillery’s story is intrinsically linked to its founder, Shaun Ward, a man with a passion for both premium spirits and the town of Ludlow itself.

From Gin to Glory: A Distiller’s Vision

Ward, a resident of the Welsh Marches for two decades, recognized a gap in Ludlow’s offerings. He envisioned a distillery that would not only create exceptional spirits but also contribute to the town’s vibrant food scene.

Ludlow Distillery began its journey with a focus on gin, specifically handcrafted gins made with the finest natural botanicals.

Their commitment to traditional methods extends to using copper-pot stills and avoiding artificial colors or flavors. The Ludlow Dry Gin, their first creation, reflected this dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

Beyond Gin: Expanding the Repertoire

While Ludlow Distillery takes pride in its gin, their ambitions extend far beyond. The success of their gin allowed them to leverage their expertise and create a wider range of spirits. They now offer a premium English single malt whisky, alongside vodka and rum. All their products are crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a consistent standard of excellence.

A Celebration of Craft: Tours and Tastings

Ludlow Distillery isn’t just about the end product; it’s about the experience. Visitors can embark on daily tours to discover the distillery’s story, witness the production process firsthand, and indulge in tastings of their finest spirits.

This commitment to transparency and hospitality reflects the spirit of the distillery itself, a place where passion and craftmanship come together to create exceptional beverages.

While still relatively young, Ludlow Distillery has carved a niche for itself in the world of spirits. Their dedication to quality, tradition, and local heritage positions them for continued growth and success.

Awards Won by Ludlow Distillery

Royal Philharmonic London Dry Gin:

Bronze Medal at the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC).
Highly Commended at The Gin Guide Awards 2023.

Ludlow Dry Gin No.3 Spiced Gin:

Winner in the Spiced Gin Category at The Gin Guide Awards 2023.

Ludlow Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Ludlow Distillery, located in the beautiful Shropshire Hills, offers an engaging and educational tour experience for visitors. This tour provides a comprehensive look at the distillation process and the history behind their award-winning spirits, including gins and whiskies.

Daily Distillery Tours:

Timing: Tours are available on weekdays at 3 pm, Saturdays at 12 noon, 1:30 pm, and 3 pm, and Sundays at 1:30 pm and 3 pm. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking in advance is recommended.
Experience: The tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery operations, an introduction to the founder’s story, and a detailed explanation of the distillation process. Visitors will see the copper stills in action and learn about the unique botanicals used in Ludlow’s spirits.
Tasting Session: Each tour includes a complimentary Ludlow Distillery G&T on arrival, and samples of four different spirits—gin, vodka, liqueur, and whisky. For designated drivers, a takeaway 5cl mini gin and tonic is provided.
Special Features: The tour also offers a 10% discount on any purchases made in the distillery shop on the day of the visit.

Gin School:

Overview: The Ludlow Gin School offers a hands-on experience where participants can create their own gin. This includes selecting botanicals, distilling the gin, and taking home a personalized bottle.
Schedule: Sessions are available on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 3 pm and last approximately three hours.
Included: Participants enjoy complimentary drinks during the session, a tour of the distillery, and a visit to the botanical library. The recipe for each unique gin is kept on file for future reorders.
Accessibility: Accessible sessions can be arranged upon request.

Visitor Information:

Location: Ludlow Distillery is situated at Ludlow Farmshop, just two miles north of Ludlow on the A49.
Contact: For bookings and inquiries, visitors can email hello@ludlowdistillery.co.uk or call 07928 621 608.
Additional Facilities: The distillery offers facilities for disabled visitors, including accessible parking and toilets.

Flask & Barrel Review of Ludlow Distillery

If you’re a whiskey enthusiast like me, Ludlow Distillery should definitely be on your radar. Nestled in the charming Shropshire Hills, this place blends traditional methods with modern twists to create some seriously impressive spirits. Having toured numerous distilleries, I can confidently say that Ludlow Distillery offers a unique and enriching experience.

The tour kicks off with a warm welcome and a complimentary Ludlow Distillery G&T. As we wandered through the distillery, we got to see their stunning copper stills up close and personal. The guide was knowledgeable, weaving in fascinating tidbits about the distillation process and the history of the distillery. It was clear that everyone involved had a genuine passion for what they do.

The highlight for me was definitely the tasting session. We sampled four different spirits: gin, vodka, liqueur, and whisky. Each one was distinct and showcased the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into their production. My personal favorite was the Royal Philharmonic London Dry Gin—its botanical blend was perfectly balanced, making it a standout among the gins I’ve tasted.

Though I didn’t partake this time, the Gin School looks like a blast. You get to craft your own gin using a mini copper still, which is something I’m definitely keen to try on my next visit. Plus, they keep your recipe on file, so you can reorder your personalized gin whenever you want. It’s a perfect activity for couples or groups of friends looking to create something unique.

The distillery is part of the Ludlow Farmshop complex, which is a great spot to explore before or after your tour. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making sure everyone had a great time. For those driving, they offer a mini gin and tonic to take home, which is a thoughtful touch.

Ludlow Distillery combines a rich history, excellent spirits, and a welcoming atmosphere to create a memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey collector or just starting your journey into the world of spirits, this distillery has something special to offer. I’m already planning my next visit, and I can’t wait to try the Gin School.

What To Do Nearby Ludlow Distillery

Ludlow Castle (0.5 miles): Immerse yourself in history at Ludlow Castle, a magnificent 11th-century structure that once served as the administrative center for the Council of the Marches. Explore its grand halls, climb the towers for panoramic views, and delve into the rich tapestry of Ludlow’s past.
The Buttermarket (0.2 miles): Take a delightful stroll through Ludlow’s historic heart, The Buttermarket. Lined with black-and-white timber-framed buildings, this vibrant square offers a plethora of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Browse for local crafts, savor fresh produce at the market stalls, or grab a bite to eat at a cozy eatery.
Stokesay Castle (6.2 miles): Venture out for a scenic journey to Stokesay Castle, a 12th-century fortified manor house. This architectural gem boasts a well-preserved moat, grand interiors adorned with tapestries and furniture, and beautiful gardens. Explore its fascinating history and get a glimpse into medieval life.
The Shropshire Hills (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – varies in distance): Escape the town center and explore the breathtaking Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Hike through rolling hills, lush valleys, and charming villages. Depending on your chosen route, you can be amidst scenic landscapes within a short drive from Ludlow Distillery.
A Local Brewery or Cidery (varies in distance): Sample the local tipples! Explore Ludlow’s thriving craft beverage scene with a visit to a local brewery or cidery. Savor a pint of freshly brewed beer or indulge in a refreshing cider, all made with locally sourced ingredients and passion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Ludlow Distillery?

The Clive Arms: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1584 856565.

Kin Kitchen: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 5 Old St, Ludlow SY8 1NW, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441584879888.

The Angel Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Broad St, Ludlow SY8 1LT, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441584877062.

What hotels are near Ludlow Distillery?

Fishmore Hall: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Fishmore Rd, Ludlow SY8 3DP, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +44 1584 875148.

Charlton Arms Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Ludford, Bridge, Ludlow SY8 1PJ, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441584872813.

The Townhouse Ludlow: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Valentine’s Walk, Broad St, Ludlow SY8 1NG, United Kingdom. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +441584877143.