The West Midlands is a vibrant hub for drinks lovers, offering everything from hands-on gin crafting to immersive whisky tastings and behind-the-scenes brewery tours. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just love a tipple, here are some of the best drinks experiences in and around the region.
 


Shakespeare Distillery, Stratford-upon-Avon
 

In the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare Distillery offers a delightful mix of history and craft. Take a Distillery Tour (£12.50–£19.50) and uncover the secrets of their award-winning gin, ending with a guided tasting. For those wanting to get stuck in themselves, the Gin School (£99–£125) is a must-do, where you can blend your own gin masterpiece using a rich palette of botanicals. Or why not set sail on the Gin Tasting Cruise (£30) along the River Avon, combining scenic views with delicious craft gins?

 


The Distillery, Birmingham City Centre
 

A short stroll from Brindley Place, The Distillery is a buzzing hotspot and home to Birmingham’s very own Roundhouse Gin. With vibrant citrus and spice notes, it’s a true local gem. Dive into their Gin School Solo Experience (£50) to craft your own bespoke gin, or share the joy with a friend for £90. Each session is packed with hands-on fun, and you’ll leave with your very own bottle of gin!


The Warwickshire Gin Company, Royal Leamington Spa
 

Step into the world of Warwickshire Gin for an experience that delights all the senses. From a Gin Tasting Experience to a luxurious Gin and Tea Afternoon, this spot knows how to treat its guests. For cocktail enthusiasts, their expertly crafted creations are perfect for a day or evening out with friends – and you may even learn a few tricks to impress at your next gathering!
 


Grain & Glass, Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
 

If whisky’s your jam, Grain & Glass in Birmingham has you covered. Their tastings are a sensory journey through the world of whisky. New to the spirit? A World of Whisky (£30) is perfect for beginners. Feeling adventurous? A Tour of Scotland (£40) explores six iconic regions, while The Story of Japan (£40) dives into the rich history of Japanese whisky. And for something truly indulgent, try their Premium Whisky Tasting (£70) – a showcase of rare and aged expressions. What’s more, their monthly Cheese Board pairing (£25) is a match made in heaven for foodies and whisky lovers alike.
 


Banks’s Brewery Tour, Wolverhampton
 

Step inside the iconic Banks’s Brewery and discover the age-old art of beer making. On this two-hour tour (£10), you’ll see how 100% natural ingredients are transformed into their signature brews using techniques unchanged for centuries. The highlight? Tasting three freshly poured half pints of cask ale, straight from the source. Don’t leave without visiting the shop to stock up on your favourites!
 


The Shropshire Distillery, Ellesmere
 

Step into the fascinating world of botanicals at The Shropshire Gin School. With your own copper still, you’ll design and distil a unique gin tailored to your taste. Available as an individual or shared experience, this immersive session promises to be both educational and fun – perfect for gin lovers looking to deepen their appreciation.
 


Holden’s Brewery Tour, Dudley
 

Holden’s Brewery invites you to step through the ‘secret door’ into the heart of their historic operations. Starting at The Park Inn, this monthly tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from raw ingredients to fermenting tanks. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling their beloved Black Country ales, steeped in history and bursting with flavour.
 


From crafting your own gin to exploring whisky from around the world or savouring fresh-brewed ales, the West Midlands has a drinks experience for every taste. Cheers to that!