BOURNEMOUTH DISTILLERY FIELD GUIDE
At the Distiller’s Table with Rupert Holloway: A Two‑Hour Deep Dive into Dorset Gin and Coffee Liqueur
A two-hour, founder‑led tour and guided tasting at The Conker Distillery & Tap Room that traces the Conker story, reveals ten botanicals behind Dorset Dry Gin, and showcases distillation up close.
At the Distiller’s Table with Rupert Holloway: A Two‑Hour Deep Dive into Dorset Gin and Coffee Liqueur.
Adventure brief
At the Distiller’s Table with Rupert Holloway: A Two‑Hour Deep Dive into Dorset Gin and Coffee Liqueur
Set in Bournemouth, The Conker Distillery & Tap Room invites visitors to a focused, two‑hour session at the Distiller’s Table with Founder Rupert Holloway. The experience combines story‑telling, a guided tasting of Dorset Dry Gins and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueurs, an exploration of the ten botanicals used in the Dorset Dry Gin, and a close‑up view of the distillation process — a compact, hands‑on introduction to a local, award‑winning spirits project.
Located in the vibrant coastal town of Bournemouth, England, the Conker Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting offers an immersive experience that unfolds the story behind Dorset’s first dedicated gin distillery. Hosted by Conker’s founder Rupert Holloway, this two-hour journey invites guests to explore the heart of craft spirit production while savoring unique flavor profiles distilled straight from local tradition. Bournemouth, known for its sandy beaches and coastal charm, serves as the perfect backdrop for this spirited exploration of Dorset's botanical heritage and artisanal craft.
The tour begins at Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Rd, where visitors are welcomed with a refreshing Conker Gin & Tonic, setting the stage for an intimate session directly from the visionary behind these award-winning spirits. Rupert Holloway shares the fascinating development of the distillery, from its inception as a small local project into a celebrated producer renowned for its Dorset Dry Gin and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueurs.
A highlight of the experience is the detailed look into the ten botanicals that give the Dorset Dry Gin its distinctive flavor — ingredients sourced thoughtfully to reflect the region’s natural flora. Guests can observe “Big Bertha,” the pot still responsible for the magic of distillation, learning the meticulous science and artistry behind each batch crafted by the distillers. The hands-on approach and genuine storytelling elevate this beyond a simple tasting, making it a celebration of craft heritage.
Tastings include the full suite of Conker’s Dorset Gins, the Bowser LEAF alcohol-free spirit, and their innovative Conker Coffee Liqueurs, which link Dorset’s distillation with sustainable coffee farms. Whether you’re a seasoned spirit enthusiast or new to the world of craft gin, this guided tastings unfolds layers of flavor and process rarely revealed elsewhere.
Post-tour, visitors can linger at the Conker Tap Room, enjoying expertly crafted cocktails and street food from 4 pm to 10 pm, rounding out an afternoon rich with local culture and conviviality.
Conker’s location near Bournemouth makes it easily accessible for travelers staying in or around this lively city, offering them a rare opportunity to connect with the region’s evolving spirit scene. The distillery’s commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and education positions it as a standout destination for anyone looking to engage meaningfully with Dorset’s outdoor and culinary landscapes.
For those who appreciate authenticity and quality, this distillery tour is an engaging way to taste and learn about Dorset’s signature spirits while enjoying the charm of southern England's coastal setting.
Route Schematic
Route & Itinerary Schematic
A short sequence of stops traces arrival, tasting, and production; the itinerary focuses on the Distiller’s Table and hands‑on demonstrations.
Meet at the Distillery
Gather at Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Rd, Bournemouth for the start of the two‑hour session.
Distiller’s Table — Founder Talk
Rupert Holloway presents the Conker story and walks the group through the background of the distillery and its spirits.
Guided Tasting
Taste the full range of Dorset Dry Gins and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueurs under guided commentary.
Botanicals & Distillation Demonstration
Explore the ten botanicals used in Dorset Dry Gin and watch distillation techniques demonstrated up close.
The tour and tasting are designed as an adults‑only experience; tours are only to be attended by adults and operator policies (including access and attendance) may require adherence to site rules.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Founder‑Led Conversation at the Distiller’s Table
The tour is hosted by Conker’s Founder, Rupert Holloway, who guides the group through the Conker story and the thinking behind the spirits you’ll taste.
Tasting Dorset Dry Gin and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur
Participants sample the full range of Dorset Dry Gins and the Cold Brew Coffee Liqueurs, a core element of the guided tasting portion of the visit.
Botanicals and Distillation Up Close
You’ll explore the ten botanicals behind the Dorset Dry Gin and witness distillation firsthand at the Distiller’s Table, linking flavor to process in real time.
What the day feels like
What the Visit Feels Like
The Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting is a concentrated, conversational two‑hour session: meet at the Distiller’s Table, hear the origin story from the founder, move through a structured tasting of Conker’s range, and finish with a distillation demonstration and botanicals exploration — leaving with stories and a renewed appreciation for Dorset’s spirits.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit suits — and who should plan otherwise.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting runs for two hours.
Meet at Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Rd, Bournemouth BH6 5HQ, United Kingdom.
There is plenty of free roadside parking in the residential roads surrounding the Distillery.
The operator does not list any specialist gear requirements for the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are dogs allowed in the distillery?
Dogs are not allowed in the Distillery building, with the exception of Assistance Dogs.
Is there parking near the distillery?
Yes — there is plenty of free roadside parking in the residential roads surrounding the Distillery.
Can children attend the tour?
Tours are only to be attended by adults; children are welcome in Tap Rooms only if supervised by a responsible adult.
How long is the Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting?
The tour and tasting session lasts two hours.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting location is Unit 2, 163 Stourvale Rd, Bournemouth BH6 5HQ, United Kingdom.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-05T19:26:51.425Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.