Let's Talk Gin. Every drop of 1881 Gin is taken from the private spring at Peebles Hydro – Shieldgreen – the very same spring that drew people to ‘take the waters’ at the hotel when the doors opened in 1881. Today, the draw is rather different: Shieldgreen now supplies the gleaming copper stills of the distillery and attendant gin school. Along with many of the botanicals grown in the grounds, 1881 Gin is trickled, nurtured and perfected by Peebles. Meet the 1881 Gin Family here.
Glimpse behind the distillery scenes with a masterclass in all things gin. There are a range of distillery tours and experiences where you can try your hand at making your own bespoke blend of gin. Find out more here.
Home to over 90 different kinds of gin, it’s hard not to love the Gin Palace. The hardest part will be picking your tipple. Relax in the lounge or sun room, and if you’re lucky you might even get to catch some sun outside.
In a separate little building to the right of Peebles Hydro, you’ll find Richard busily brewing, fermenting and hopping up his ales. And at the bars in both Peebles Hydro and The Park, you’ll find the finished product.
The one-man brewery operation has been a big hit. You’ll see the blonde ale – The Cherub, named after the little statue out the front of Peebles Hydro. The Runner Duck IPA is named after the most recent additions to the animal farm down at Peebles 'Hendro' and the ruby ale – The Badger… well, we’re not really sure where that name came from, but one thing’s for sure – they’re all delicious.
It’s been a whirlwind of bubbles and froth since Richard arrived in 2016. He wanted to take advantage of the fresh water supply at Shieldgreen to add a real touch of Peebles to the ales. Richard will even give you a tour around the microbrewery and show you how he turns our water into beer.
