The Secret Garden Distillery

Crafting gin in Edinburgh’s hills

Nestled at the foot of the Pentland Hills in Edinburgh, The Secret Garden Distillery was established in 2017 on the outskirts of Edinburgh city centre. Its unique location was chosen for its rich botanical diversity and proximity to the natural beauty of the Edinburgh landscape.  

In 2022, new ownership revitalised the distillery with a renewed commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation, further solidifying its deep roots in Edinburgh’s distilling tradition. 

The Secret Garden Distillery stands apart with its ‘seed to sip’ philosophy by letting nature guide its craft rather than following industry trends. While many distilleries might chase popular flavours, The Secret Garden focuses on seasonal botanicals grown in its garden, which is home to more than 600 varieties, including lemon verbena, lavender and elderflower & jasmine.  

The team spend years on the cultivation of their crops while seamlessly blending creativity with science in the production process, adopting the mindset of an alchemist to infuse a touch of magic and innovation into the time-honoured practices of distillation.  

The result is a range of bold and intriguing flavours including Wild Gin, Rose Gin, Summer Gin, and Pinot Noir gin. 

The distillery believes that within its diverse gin range, every consumer can find the perfect gin to suit their taste. Whether they prefer the crisp, classic profile of a London Dry or are drawn to more well-balanced, floral expressions, The Secret Garden’s selection of eight gins offers something for everyone.  

Their distillery tour involves an unforgettable Scottish gin-making & gin tasting experience 

[spokesperson] for The Secret Garden Distillery, added:  

“Edinburgh’s vibrant spirit community plays a significant role in the success of The Secret Garden Distillery. With distilling records dating back to the 18^th Century, the city’s rich cultural heritage in distillation, combined with a modern appreciation for craft, fosters a community that values high-quality, authentic spirits. 

“Scottish nature is at the core of our distillery, and this drives our commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of our energy-intensive operations. We are dedicated to investing in green energy and are on a journey towards achieving carbon-negative emissions. Our efforts extend from sustainable gardening practices to sourcing eco-friendly packaging, all to minimise our impact on the planet.  

“But our vision doesn’t stop at producing fantastic spirits; we also aim to make a positive difference in the world we call home. Our team, which we consider a family, is integral to the success of our business. We have fostered an inclusive culture that encourages the sharing of thoughts and ideas, driving innovation and collaboration at every level of the business.  

“We also believe in cultivating close relationships with our customers, suppliers, and the local community. Through our community days and various initiatives, we stay connected with those around us, reinforcing our commitment to both our craft and our community. The Secret Garden Distillery is not just a business; it is a shared vision and passion brought to life by our dedicated team.” 

The distillery is deeply connected to the city, collaborating with local bars and restaurants, and participating in events like Negroni Week to showcase its unique products and flavours.  

For a drink in the city, the team would recommend The Voodoo Rooms. More than just a bar; it’s a stunning venue that captures the vibrant energy of Edinburgh. The beautiful decor, coupled with its commitment to quality and innovation, makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a well-crafted gin cocktail. For the team, it’s a place that perfectly represents the collaboration and passion that drives the Edinburgh spirit community, and the team is proud to have its gin represented there.   

Holyrood Distillery, 19 St Leonard’s Lane, EH8 9SH

This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund