How We Do It

At Whitby Distillery, our process is driven by a deep respect for tradition, craftsmanship, and our coastal surroundings. Every drop of our gin and rum is a tribute to Whitby’s spirit — shaped by the sea, steeped in heritage, and made with passion.

Meet Dora-Grace, Our Copper Still

Our copper still is more than just equipment — she’s part of the team. We named her Dora-Grace, in honour of Dora Walker, Whitby’s only female skipper and a true local legend. Dora-Grace plays a vital role in every bottle we produce, distilling with consistency, character, and care.

Traditional Methods, Uncompromising Quality

We use the single-shot distillation method — a rare and traditional approach. This means we distil our gin just once, with the perfect balance of botanicals every time. Unlike many others, we do not chill filter our gin. This ensures a fuller flavour and allows every botanical to shine, even if it means a slight haze in your glass.

Locally Foraged Botanicals

Whitby’s wild coast and countryside are at the heart of our recipes. We hand-forage local ingredients to create flavours that are truly reflective of our surroundings, including:- Sugar Kelp – sustainably harvested from the North Sea with the help of Sea Grown- Heather Flowers – picked from the North York Moors  - Yorkshire Honey – sourced from passionate local beekeepers  Each botanical is carefully selected to deliver a distinctive taste of place — fresh, bold, and unmistakably Whitby.

Sustainability Matters

Our commitment to sustainability runs through everything we do. From supporting local producers to minimising waste, we’re proud to create spirits that are kind to the environment and the community. As a proud member of 1% for the Planet, we donate a portion of our revenue to environmental causes, reinforcing our dedication to a healthier planet.

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