Update: Since we featured Rob here, Durham Ginstitute has now relocated to more prominent premises at 9 Silver Street.
It might have been “World Gin Day” on Saturday (there seems to be a dedicated day for everything), but every day can be a “gin day” in Durham thanks to the city’s very own gin shop – the wonderfully named Durham Ginstitute, located just across the road from The City pub in New Elvet.
Current owner Rob took over the business in December 2019, and has since been grabbing the attention of passersby with his eye-catching windows, and winning a following for the shop’s popular after-hours gin tasting events – now able to take place again as lockdown eases.
Head inside the shop, and you’re faced with a colourful choice of over 200 premium craft gins, plus a range of quality tonics to make sure that you get the combination just right.
But don’t worry if the choice is too much – Rob is on hand to share his expertise, and did a great job of helping us choose a suitable gin, after we explained the types of flavours and aromas that we liked.
While we were there, we also snapped up a couple of gorgeous glass tumblers, to make sure the gin we’d purchased would be perfectly served! As well as a range of smart gin glasses, Durham Ginstitute also stocks glass stirrers in every colour you could possibly need – great gift ideas for Father’s Day next weekend, if you still need some inspiration.
The shop also has much to enjoy if you’re someone who loves beautifully designed gin bottles rather than the content inside them. Collectors can find “preloved” (empty) gin bottles, and there are also used bottles that have been transformed into striking electric or oil lamps, for the perfect table centrepiece.
So, whether you’re local or visiting, nothing beats the experience of popping into Durham Ginstitute in person, but the good news is that you can also shop online at durhamginstitute.co.uk and get your treats shipped anywhere in the country.
You’ll find regular updates from Rob on the Durham Ginstitute Facebook page and Instagram account, so be sure to give them a follow for news of all the latest offers, events and new arrivals.
