Starting a Craft Micro Distillery in the UK (and Northern Ireland): A Comprehensive Guide

How to Start a Craft Distillery in the UK – A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about launching your own craft distillery? Whether you’re dreaming of producing gin, vodka, or rum, setting up a legal and profitable distillery in the UK requires careful planning. From licensing and compliance with HMRC to choosing the right distillation equipment, there’s a lot to consider before you fire up your first still.

In this guide, we break down the key steps to starting a micro distillery, including:
✅ Essential licences – Distiller’s Licence, Rectifier’s Licence, and Compounder’s Licence explained
✅ Startup costs – Budgeting for equipment, premises, and excise duty
✅ Choosing the right still – Traditional vs. modern hybrid systems like GENIO Stills
✅ Legal compliance – HMRC regulations, spirits duty, and environmental considerations

With GSTILL’s innovative hybrid stills, you can start your distillery with high-quality, scalable equipment at a more manageable investment—without requiring venture capital or excessive overhead.

Ready to turn your distilling dreams into reality? Read the full guide to learn exactly how to start your own craft distillery in the UK.