Adventure brief
Tour & Tasting
Step inside Essex Spirits Co in Chelmsford for a hands-on distillery tour and tasting. Meet the founder, see the craft in action, and sample an authentic range of locally made gins, vodka, and rum.
Chelmsford, the county town of Essex in England, is home to Essex Spirits Co, a vibrant distillery offering a distinctive immersion into the craft of spirit-making. This two-hour behind-the-scenes tour and tasting session unfolds inside a dynamic industrial complex at Unit 32 Waterhouse Business Center, where heritage and hands-on craftsmanship collide. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a signature Essex Spirits Co drink, setting the tone for a relaxed yet informative experience led by founder and head distiller Zane Chiswell-Rivas.
The tour kicks off with an introduction to the distillery’s philosophy and dedication to quality, highlighting the local ingredients and time-honored techniques that define their gins, vodka, and rum. Descending into the production space reveals gleaming copper stills and rows of aging barrels that anchor the manufacturing process. Here, visitors witness how raw botanicals and precise distillation converge to create distinct spirits.
The sensory aspect deepens during the tasting back upstairs, where sampling the full range—including three gins, a smooth vodka, and rich rum—connects flavor experience with the craft behind it. Essex Spirits Co stands out in the Chelmsford outdoor and cultural scene as an accessible yet authentic destination—offering insight into a booming local craft distilling movement without feeling staged or commercialized. The setting itself is surrounded by a mix of historic Essex industrial facilities and natural green spaces, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking a practical glimpse of artisan production culture.
Visitors who find a new favorite bottle can purchase on site with a 10% discount, further rooting the connection between guests and local craftmanship. The company’s open approach to accommodating designated drivers and providing non-alcoholic options underscores its inclusive spirit. Essex Spirits Co is a must-visit for any adventurer curious about England’s flourishing spirits scene, delivering both education and taste in a distinctly hands-on way.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a valid IDessential
You must be over 18 and will be asked for ID due to licensing laws.
- 02Designated driver options availableinfo
Non-drinkers receive soft drinks and take-home samples, ensuring full participation.
- 03Wear comfortable shoesinfo
There is a short walk downstairs to the distillery floor and back upstairs to the tasting room on a mezzanine level.
- 04Plan for parking or transitwarning
The distillery is in a business complex; public transport or pre-booked taxis are recommended for ease.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
To easily navigate stairs between the distillery floor and tasting room.
EssentialValid Photo ID
Required for age verification due to legal tasting regulations.
EssentialNotebook or digital device
For jotting down tasting notes and learnings about spirit production.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated before or after tastings, especially during summer visits.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Chelmsford Cathedral's historic architecture, Central Park for scenic walks nearby
Local fauna
Red kites soaring overhead, Urban foxes spotted at dusk
Historic heritage
Chelmsford was granted city status in 2012 and has deep historical roots dating back to Roman Britain, reflecting a rich industrial and cultural past.
Mindful exploration
Essex Spirits Co emphasizes sustainable sourcing and local production to reduce transport emissions and support regional agriculture.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Distillery tasting room bar area, Copper stills in the production room, Exterior signage with industrial backdrop
- Subjects
- Craft spirits bottling process, Polished copper stills, Wide shots of the distillery interior
- Best times
- Late afternoon for soft indoor lighting, Morning for crisp outdoor shots near the business center, Early evening during golden hour outside
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are under 18s allowed on the tour?
No, guests must be over 18 due to licensing requirements.
Is there parking available at the distillery?
Yes, there is parking in the Waterhouse Business Center, but space is limited; public transport is recommended.
Can I purchase spirits after the tour?
Yes, you receive a 10% discount on any purchases made on the day of the tour.
What if I don't drink alcohol?
Designated drivers and non-drinkers receive soft drinks and take-home samples to enjoy later.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tasting room is on a 1st-floor mezzanine without elevator access; please notify the distillery in advance for accommodations.
Can I meet the distillery founder during the tour?
Yes, the tours are typically led by founder and head distiller Zane Chiswell-Rivas who welcomes questions at the end.