Summerhall Distillery

Crafting spirits in the heart of Edinburgh

Founded in September 2013 by Marcus Pickering and Matt Gammell, Summerhall Distillery, located in Edinburgh’s historic Summerhall complex, was born through a project to convert the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies into a major arts venue. While doing so, they created the Royal Dick Pub and felt it was only right to have a small distillery on site as well, and the rest is history. 

This unique setting inspired founders Marcus and Matt to create Pickering’s Gin, which launched in March 2014. When the distillery launched in 2013, it became the first exclusive gin distillery in Edinburgh in 150 years.  

The distillery offers a mix of traditional and experimental products, including Pickering’s Gin. It began life as a recipe for Bombay gin from 1947 that was handed to them by a friend of Marcus’ late father. Liking the initial spicy flavours but feeling they could go further; they continued to experiment and increased the juniper and the citrus and decreased the spiciness and thus Pickering’s Gin was born.  

For its tours and experiences, the team sources local ingredients for any cocktails and pairings. They work with neighbours at The Edinburgh Ice Company for ice, fruit, and juices. For the Cheese & Cocktail masterclass, they work with I.J Mellis, a local cheesemonger and rotate pairings seasonally so our customers can taste the best local produce.   

In 2022, they expanded with The Broody Hen Scotch Whisky, curating unique blends that cater to diverse palates. The whisky has a nose of delicately light honey and butterscotch aroma, a palate of bursts of delectable caramel, vanilla and manuka honey and a kick of spice compared often to French toast with a sprinkle of cinnamon. When looking at casks for their whisky, one particular lot stood out; five, stacked casks which looked like a hen coop, hence the creation of the name.  

The distillery’s deep connection to Edinburgh is evident in its operations and products. Housed in historic kennels of the former vet school, the facility was designed and built by the founders themselves. The bottle and logo incorporate a peacock which is a nod to both the animal hospital where the distillery was built and the national bird of India where the original recipe was born.   

[spokesperson] for Summerhall Distillery, said:  

“Drinkers of craft spirits continue to seek details on history and production, which has led to a thirst for knowledge. With this education has come an eagerness to try new flavours and enjoy being experimental and Summerhall has always been an open book and welcomed people into the distillery. Customers have the chance to go on a flavour journey, exploring the production and use of flavours – including Brussels Sprouts – while remaining true to their London dry gin style.     

“Edinburgh’s spirited history plays a significant role in our success. The city’s festivals and tourist appeal offer great exposure, fostering a close-knit community of distilleries. Summerhall stands out by maintaining full control of its production, from distillation to packaging, ensuring authenticity in every bottle. The distillery was built with Edinburgh in mind and uses Edinburgh’s influence to bring the city into the bottles they create.  

“Pickering’s Gin has been the official gin partner of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for 10 years. This led to the creation of Pickering’s Navy Strength Gin; adorned with a traditional bearskin hat and a commemorative neck tag, it was the perfect fit.” 

Top of FormThe team recommend a drink at Hey Palu on Bread Street, specifically a negroni.  

Summerhall Distillery, 1 Summerhall Square, Newington, EH9 1PL

This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund