Summerhall Distillery is far more than a production line for gin and whisky; it is a vital organ within a vast cultural destination. Nestled in the heart of an arts complex where creativity permeates every corner, the distillery’s story began with a family recipe and has since blossomed into an internationally renowned brand. The team has never shied away from experimentation, crafting products that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. By maintaining complete control over the process—from distillation to packaging—they preserve the authenticity of every bottle. Today, the distillery stands as a symbol of modern Scottish craft with real character. Read more on edinburgh1.one.
From Dog Kennels to Distillery: The Early Days
The origins of Summerhall Distillery can be traced back to the childhood curiosity of Marcus Pickering. He always possessed a drive to understand how things worked, often dismantling objects or building new mechanisms from scraps. This problem-solving approach was shared by his business partner, Matthew Gammell—an engineer and developer specialising in the restoration and repurposing of historic buildings.
Until 2013, Marcus managed the Summerhall arts venue, housed in the former Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies—one of the oldest vet schools in the world. After the school relocated to the University of Edinburgh, the complex was purchased and transformed into a cultural hub featuring workshops, galleries, a pub, and a brewery. The only vacant spaces left were the old dog kennels, which were destined to become the future home of the distillery.
The spark for creating their own spirit was ignited when Marcus discovered a family gin recipe dating back to 1947. Thus, the concept for Pickering’s Gin was born. Converting the former kennels into a fully functioning distillery proved to be their first major challenge. Matthew engineered the reconstruction of traditional Portuguese copper stills, outfitting them with a hot water heating system. Their ingenuity was tested again when the labelling machine broke down during the very first run. Undeterred, they cobbled together a custom device using parts from an old sewing machine. They named it “Mabel”—a symbol of their entrepreneurial resourcefulness. In this way, Summerhall Distillery was born within the walls of an art space, fusing history, engineering, and creativity.
Innovation and Expansion: Baubles, Whisky, and Cruise Liners
In 2014, Summerhall Distillery surprised visitors at the Christmas market with a rather unusual product: gin-filled Christmas baubles. Initially conceived as a creative festive novelty, they became a sensation; by 2015, thousands of these decorations had sold out across various markets. In 2016, production was taken to the next level. Utilising a bespoke machine built by experts from Hacklab, the team produced approximately 30,000 baubles. Word of this innovative product spread rapidly, earning the distillery the “Innovation of the Year” award at the Scottish Gin Awards.
By 2022, Summerhall Distillery expanded its portfolio by launching a Scotch whisky, The Broody Hen. This dram is characterised by a delicate aroma of honey and toffee, with tasting notes of caramel, vanilla, and Manuka honey, finished with a piquant spicy kick often compared to cinnamon French toast.
Another significant chapter in their history was their collaboration with the cruise company Cunard Line. A special series of gins was created for their luxury liners: Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Anne. This project held deep personal significance for Marcus. His uncle had spent the majority of his life serving as a captain for Cunard White Star, making this partnership not just a professional milestone, but a personal tribute to his family history.
True to the spirit of its cultural surroundings, Summerhall Distillery continues to merge manufacturing with the arts. During the 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, they hosted an interactive theatre project based on the story of a speakeasy. This creativity extends to the smallest details: a gramophone that automatically mixes cocktails and a converted Japanese fire engine that dispenses gin through fire hoses have become iconic elements of the distillery’s style.
A Cultural Phenomenon and a Symbol of Edinburgh
Summerhall Distillery serves as a prime example of how history, engineering ingenuity, and local identity can be forged into a powerful modern brand. By ensuring full control over production, they guarantee the authenticity of every bottle, underscoring the brand’s artisanal nature. The peacock symbol found on their label and logo bridges two distinct histories: the heritage of the former veterinary school and the Indian roots of the original gin recipe. Beyond production, the distillery is actively involved in developing the culture of consumption. During tours and events, the team prioritises local ingredients, partnering with The Edinburgh Ice Company for ice, fruit, and juices. For their “Cheese & Cocktail” masterclasses, they join forces with the renowned local cheesemonger I.J. Mellis, adapting pairings to the seasons so guests can experience the very best flavours of the region. Through a combination of traditional and experimental products, creative projects, international collaborations, and a deep connection to the local community, Summerhall Distillery has secured its status not merely as a producer of gin and whisky, but as a genuine cultural phenomenon in Edinburgh.
