Manchester Gin to open new city centre distillery

Manchester Gin is to open a new distillery, bar and restaurant in the heart of its namesake city, housed within six Grade-II listed railway arches beneath the Manchester Central conference centre.

The brand, which was launched in 2013 by Jennie Wiggins and Seb Heeley, is also using the move to expand its distillation capacity, upgrading to a 1,000-litre still. The brand’s original still was just 60 litres.

Co-founder Heeley commented: “It’s been an ambition of ours, since we started in our dining room, to give people the ability to come and meet us and see how we make our beautiful gins in person.

“The arches under Manchester Central will be the perfect mix of the old industrial heritage of Manchester with a contemporary look synonymous with our brand.”

The 5,300 square foot site will also house a bar and restaurant while the brand hopes to host tutorials and masterclasses for visitors.

Designed by Manchester-based Up North Architects, the new distillery will feature three arches with floor-to-ceiling glass and will take cues from the brand’s Mancunian heritage, its core brand values and the inspiration behind its gin.

The site is expected to bring over 30 jobs to the area, and subject to planning approval, will open this summer.

Shaun Hinds, chief executive of Manchester Central, said: “Since joining the business 18 months ago, I’ve been looking for the right opportunity to activate our arches and reinvigorate this part of the venue.

“In getting to know Seb and Jen from Manchester Gin, I have been impressed with their vision for their business which in many ways matches the ambition of Manchester Central and the city as a whole. As an iconic feature of the city ourselves, I knew early on that this development would create a unique destination within the realm of our venue for both Manchester residents and visitors alike. We’re delighted to be part of the next chapter for this tremendous local business.”