Plymouth Gin Distillery facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Plymouth Gin Distillery |
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The Plymouth Gin Distillery
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| General information | |
| Type | Gin Distillery |
| Address | Black Friars Distillery 60 Southside Street Plymouth PL1 2LQ |
| Country | England |
| Coordinates | 50°22′03″N 4°08′15″W / 50.367619°N 4.137461°W |
| Completed | 1793 |
| Designations | Grade II* listed |
The Plymouth Gin Distillery is a famous place in Plymouth, England. It is also known as the Black Friars Distillery. This distillery is the only one of its kind in the city. It first opened in 1793, making it the oldest working distillery in Britain. You can find it on The Barbican, right near Southside Street.
Contents
A Look Back: History of the Distillery
Ancient Stories and Uses
Local stories say that the distillery building was once a Dominican Order monastery. This monastery was supposedly built way back in 1431. However, there is no solid proof to confirm this old tale.
Another interesting story connects the building to the Pilgrim Fathers. It is said that they might have stayed here. This was when their ship, the Mayflower, was in the harbour for repairs. The Mayflower later sailed to North America. This historical link is why a ship is shown on the company's label today.
From Home to Distillery
The building itself dates back to around 1500. It was first a large merchant's house. Over time, it was used for different purposes. By 1605, it became a gaol, which is an old word for a prison. Later, from 1689 to 1705, it served as a meeting place for a religious group.
In 1793, the building was changed and made bigger. This is when it became a gin distillery. A man named Coates joined an existing business, Fox & Williamson. Their company was known as Coates & Co. for a very long time, until March 2004.
The Distillery Today
What Happens There Now
Today, the Plymouth Gin Distillery is still a busy place. It has a bar where people can relax. Above the bar, there is a bistro, which is a type of restaurant. The distillery also offers several tours. These tours let visitors explore the historic building.
Since 2005, a company called V&S Group has owned the brand and the building. This group is famous for making Absolut Vodka. Later, another big company, Pernod-Ricard, bought V&S Group.
Plymouth Gin and Collectibles
Plymouth Gin is still made at this historic location. In recent years, this type of gin has become more popular. It has a special taste that is sweeter and lighter than other kinds of gin.
The company has also created many special items over the years. These include unique jugs, small bottles, glasses, and ashtrays. Many of these items have become popular with collectors.
A Fire and Reopening
On February 27, 2008, a fire caused damage to the building. The fire started in a nearby kitchen. Luckily, the Barbican Kitchen, where the fire began, has since reopened. The distillery building was also repaired.
