Billesley Manor Gin Festival 2018

On Sunday I was invited along with my photographer friend Hannah to Billesley Manor Gin Festival. Having only recently discovered my love for gin being that it's the on trend drink right now and UK distilleries and gin brands popping up everywhere, I was really excited to explore the different flavours of gin from local gin distilleries and relax in the sunshine.



The gin event itself was set in the 100 year old Topiary garden of Billesley Manor which dates back to the 16th century and conveniently located just 3 miles from my hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon. One of my favourite hotels and the most beautiful setting for soaking up the beautiful sunny weather with a good glass of gin.


To attend the gin festival you had to purchase a £15 ticket which included a souvenir branded goblet, gin menu detailing all flavours & options, plus a welcome gin and tonic supplied by Shakespeare Distillery. There was also a token system in operation to purchase your gin costing £2.50 each which I think worked really well.



We were spoilt for choice with so many varieties of special gins available such as Elderflower and Gooseberry, Mulberry, Rhubarb and Ginger, Apple and Blackberry. But not only was their gin, there was also live music from the talented Andrew James and gin flavoured ice cream from Hoorays Gelato and tasty food from Sebastian's Butchery.  



The gin brands who attended the event included:

Shakespeare Distillery - a partner of the gin festival, they distill in small handcrafted batches and offer three main gins - stratford gin, mulberry gin and rhubarb gin.



British Polo Gin - produced in a distillery in West Wales and 100% organic gin. They had single gin and tonics available and also refreshing cocktails.


Sovereign Spirits - a family run distillery produced in Clipstone park and offering more flavoursome gins which I loved!



Cotswolds Distillery - Established in 2014, they not only produce dry gin but whisky too. 

Wood Brothers Distilling Co - created by two brothers, they specialise in Single Estate Gin and also produce vodka too.

Me and Hannah had a splendid time at the gin festival and want to thank Billesley Manor for inviting us.

Have you ever been to a gin festival?

Liz x

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