Bathtub Gin London: The Hidden History of London’s Underground Distillers

Beneath London’s bustling streets and historic pubs lies a forgotten chapter of clandestine distillation—bathtub gin, an urban legend turned cultural artifact born from necessity and rebellion during Britain’s temperance struggles.

Though not a literal practice, bathtub gin symbolizes London’s underground distilling culture during the early 20th century, when strict regulations and wartime rationing pushed home distillers to create potent, illicit spirits. Often linked to hidden spaces—basements, bathrooms, and secret chambers—this era spawned a mythos where gin was crafted ‘in the tub’ as a metaphor for concealed production, blending folklore with real defiance of authority.

Today, bathtub gin resonates in London’s vibrant craft cocktail scene, inspiring bars and mixologists to reimagine the spirit with local ingredients and vintage techniques. It represents a fusion of heritage and innovation, echoing the city’s resilience and creativity. From speakeasy-style venues to home distilling communities, this myth continues to shape London’s identity as a hub of underground culture and artisanal spirit.

While true bathtub distillation remains a tale, the spirit lives on through tasting experiences, historical tours, and curated events celebrating London’s illicit past. Enthusiasts explore archival recipes, rare botanicals, and storytelling, ensuring that the legend endures—not as a literal practice, but as a symbol of ingenuity and cultural memory woven into the city’s soul.

Bathtub gin in London transcends myth, embodying a rich legacy of resourcefulness and rebellion. Whether experienced in hidden bars or through immersive history, it invites all to savor not just a drink, but a story—proof that sometimes, the most powerful spirits are the ones we choose to believe in.

Bathtub GinYes, it takes longer and has to be made in smaller batches but we know this creates the best tasting, best looking gin out there. But don't just take our word for it, we've won over 40 industry awards including gold at the World Gin Awards 2019, 2020 and 2022! Bathtub Gin An extraordinary award-winning gin, made using the traditional method of Cold Compounding (or in layman's terms - infusing).

The limited edition Bathtub Gin was designed by Erica Ho The week-long Belgravia in Bloom flower festival in London will take place between 19-26 May. To celebrate the event, Bathtub Gin has. This method, inspired by the illicit 'bathtub gins' of the 1920s, infuses the gin with botanicals after distillation, resulting in an exceptionally aromatic and complex profile.

For those looking to experience the collaboration in person, Bathtub Gin will be hosting a pop. Bathtub Gin is an award-winning gin produced by the enigmatic Professor Cornelius Ampleforth. The gin is packaged using brown paper, string and wax so the presentation is Victorian! This gin is made in ultra.

AWARD-WINNING CRAFT GIN, DOUBLE INFUSED FOR EXTRA FLAVOUR Hand-crafted from start to finish; first we distil an already delicious London Dry Gin in a traditional copper-pot still, then we take our extra step. We cold infuse with orange peel and five other carefully selected fresh botanicals over a further seven days, tasting regularly by hand to ensure that distinct Bathtub flavour we're. Ableforth's Bathtub Gin 70cl is a standout spirit in the world of craft gin, known for its distinctive appearance and exceptional quality.

The first thing you'll notice is the charmingly rustic packaging-bottled in brown paper with twine and wax seals, which adds a handcrafted, artisanal touch that reflects the gin's small. London's beautiful flower festival, Belgravia in Bloom has partnered with British craft gin brand Bathtub Gin to create a stunning limited-edition bottle design and it is now available to buy via Master of Malt (RRP £34.95) Taking place from 19-26 May, the festival transforms the West London neighbourhood with spectacular floral installations and curated experiences, []. Bathtub Gin takes its name from 'bathtub gins' of old, where illicit gin was concocted in bathtubs in the 1920s.

We took inspiration from this small batch, handcrafted method but use the best, fresh botanicals and to finish, every bottle is strong, waxed and wrapped by hand. Bathtub Gin review and tasting notes, plus garnish and serving suggestions to help you enjoy Bathtub Gin.