Let the fun times be-gin with Peebles Hydro’s new distillery

gin school peebles hydro
Help yourself to a refreshing tipple courtesy of the new gin school at Peebles Hydro

Peebles Hydro just became our new favourite place – it’s only gone and launched its own gin distillery and school! The 1881 gin, named after the year in which the hotel opened, is available in a variety of flavours, including London Dry, Pavilion Pink and Subtly Smoked. The venture looks to have paid off, and we can attest that the new spirit tastes truly gincredible. 

peebles hydro wedding
Even without the booze, this stunning venue still has plenty to recommend it. Photo: Karol Makula Photography

“We’re delighted that our dream of creating a gin school and distillery at Peebles Hydro has finally been realised,” enthused Stephen Leckie, CEO of the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels. “We’ve gathered an extremely talented team of experts to make the 1881 gin a reality and I am very proud of the final product.

“Whilst gin is soaring in popularity and distilleries are opening all over the country, what makes ours unique is that it uses the same source of water from the rolling hills behind Peebles Hydro that made the hotel such a draw for people all over the UK nearly 140 years ago when the venue first opened. We’re excited to be introducing the 1881 gin as our house gin across the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels.”

And it’s not just gin that’s got the Peebles treatment – the venue has also created four tonic waters, named Tonic 81, to complement the spirit. Make ours a double with Pink Grapefruit, if you will.

To celebrate the launch, any couple who books a full ballroom w-day package will also enjoy a gin-tasting experience, including a two-hour distilling class, a tour of the distillery and a personalised bottle each.

We wish we could tell you more, but we’re already on our way to the Borders. Forgive us, for we have ginned.