Copper Rivet Distillery
Award-winning 'grain-to-glass' distillery in historic Chatham Dockyard, crafting exceptional spirits with local ingredients.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Copper Rivet Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Award-winning 'grain-to-glass' distillery in historic Chatham Dockyard, crafting exceptional spirits with local ingredients.
"A diamond of a restaurant and an inspiring history with amazing spirits!"
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for gin or whisky tours to learn about the 'grain-to-glass' process.
Restaurant Reservations Recommended
The restaurant is highly praised; book ahead for weekend dining to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grain-to-Glass Process Tour
Witness the meticulous journey from locally grown grain to exquisite spirits. Learn about their unique machinery and sustainable practices.
Masthouse Single Malt Whisky
Savor the rich, complex flavors of their signature whisky, a testament to their dedication to quality and traditional methods.
Chatham Dockyard Gin
Experience the botanically-infused gin, crafted with local ingredients and inspired by the historic dockyard setting.
The Pumproom Restaurant & Bar
Enjoy delicious food and drinks with stunning river views from the terrace of this beautifully aesthetic venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Distillery Tour in Advance
Consider the Dining Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for gin or whisky tours to learn about the 'grain-to-glass' process.
Restaurant Reservations Recommended
The restaurant is highly praised; book ahead for weekend dining to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy the Views
The terrace offers beautiful river and castle views, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Straight Drinks Over Cocktails
Some visitors suggest opting for straight pours rather than cocktails for the best taste.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for gin or whisky tours to learn about the 'grain-to-glass' process.
Restaurant Reservations Recommended
The restaurant is highly praised; book ahead for weekend dining to avoid disappointment.
Enjoy the Views
The terrace offers beautiful river and castle views, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Straight Drinks Over Cocktails
Some visitors suggest opting for straight pours rather than cocktails for the best taste.
Explore the Historic Dockyard
The distillery is set in a historically significant area; take time to explore the surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Copper Rivet Distillery for its informative tours, delicious food at The Pumproom, and the unique historical setting of Chatham Dockyard. The quality of their spirits, particularly the Masthouse Single Malt Whisky and Chatham Dockyard Gin, is frequently highlighted. Some minor points of improvement mentioned include the cocktail offerings and a desire for more light bites at the bar.
"We were given a Gin Tour as a gift from friends Christmas and we finally got to the use our gift this weekend. I learned a great deal from the tour. The Guide was knowledgeable and delivered the tour at a great pace, explaining how they end up to with whiskey, vodka and gin. The time it takes and the process from start to finish. The samples were brilliant and the drink at the end was a nice touch as was the discount voucher. Such a beautiful place to visit. Can’t thank the staff enough for all they did to make this a great experience. Can’t wait to go back soon for more purchases and a drink in the garden overlooking the river once the weather gets warmer."
Julia Lindon-Taylor
"Lovely distillery bar inside; cool on a hot day and very quiet at around 1pm on a Sunday. Outside was also very quiet initially but soon got busier. Beautiful views of the river and of the castle on the other side. Would love to return. Strawberry gin not very sweet (maybe as it’s more “natural/authentic”? and would’ve stayed longer if they had any nibbles or food. I could’ve stayed much longer enjoying the sunshine and outdoor space but hubby was hungry so a shame they don’t serve some light bites at least. Would definitely return on a summer’s day."
Fiona Tracey
"Irana (sorry if I've spelt it incorrectly) is such a lovely person that made our experience so special. It was just the tonic we needed after a very sad summer (and I don't just mean the tasting) The history of the place is inspiring, the environment beautiful and Irana you made the experience interesting/educational, the quality of the fluids amazing 🤗 but most of all such fun. Thank you so much for a much needed positive experience X"
Joan Hutchinson Cox
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Copper Rivet Distillery is located in the historic Chatham Dockyard, Kent. Visitors can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include train to Chatham station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride.
Yes, there is parking available near the distillery within the Chatham Dockyard area. It's advisable to check specific parking regulations for the dockyard on the day of your visit.
Yes, you can visit the bar and restaurant area without booking a formal tour. However, booking a tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate their 'grain-to-glass' process.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the bar, restaurant, and tours. It's best to check the official Copper Rivet Distillery website for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours.
The distillery aims to be accessible, but due to the historic nature of the dockyard buildings, some areas might present challenges. It's recommended to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices vary depending on the type of tour (gin, whisky, etc.) and any special packages. It's recommended to visit their website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, booking your distillery tour in advance is highly recommended to guarantee your spot, especially for popular whisky and gin tours.
Tours typically include a guided walk-through of the distillery, an explanation of the 'grain-to-glass' process, and often a tasting of their spirits. Some packages may include additional benefits.
Absolutely! You can purchase a range of their spirits, including Masthouse Single Malt Whisky and Chatham Dockyard Gin, directly from the distillery shop.
While specific discount codes aren't widely advertised, keep an eye on their social media or website for any seasonal promotions or package deals.
🎫 🍸 Spirits & Tastings
Copper Rivet Distillery produces a variety of spirits, including their signature Masthouse Single Malt Whisky, Chatham Dockyard Gin, and other unique offerings like their White Whisky. 
Yes, tastings are a key part of the distillery experience, often included in tours or available at the bar. You can sample their range to find your favorite.
The Masthouse Single Malt Whisky is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, a result of their meticulous 'grain-to-glass' production process using locally sourced barley.
Yes, Copper Rivet Distillery has offered flavored gins, such as a strawberry gin. However, availability may vary, so it's worth checking their current offerings.
Reviews are mixed on cocktails. While some enjoy them, others suggest sticking to straight drinks for the best appreciation of the spirit's quality.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Copper Rivet Distillery features The Pumproom restaurant, which offers a dining experience with great views and tasty food.
The restaurant serves a range of dishes, described as immensely tasty with good portion sizes that leave you satisfied but not overwhelmed.
While the restaurant offers full meals, some visitors have noted a lack of light bites or snacks at the bar, which can be a drawback if you're not planning a full meal.
It is highly recommended to book a table in advance, especially for weekend evenings, as the restaurant is a popular dining spot.
The terrace at The Pumproom offers beautiful views of the river and the castle on the opposite side, making it a lovely spot to enjoy a meal or drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the distillery's industrial architecture, the scenic river views from the terrace, and close-ups of their beautifully presented spirits.
Yes, photography is generally permitted during the tours, allowing you to document the fascinating 'grain-to-glass' process and the unique machinery.
The terrace overlooking the river can offer beautiful light for sunset photos, especially during the golden hour.
A mix of industrial photography capturing the distillery's machinery and architecture, alongside lifestyle shots of people enjoying drinks and the views, would work well.
While the distillery offers great photo ops, it's best enjoyed as part of a broader experience including a tour and tasting or dining, to fully appreciate its charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is more relaxed. While children cannot participate in tastings, they can accompany adults on tours (check age restrictions) and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The open spaces within the dockyard might also offer opportunities for kids to explore before or after your distillery visit.
🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Opt for an evening visit to experience the distillery's ambiance as dusk settles, or a leisurely Sunday lunch for a more relaxed date. The unique historical backdrop of Chatham Dockyard adds a memorable touch to any romantic outing.
🥃 Whisky Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable guides, ask questions about the malting, fermentation, and distillation stages, and savor the nuances of their single malt. The opportunity to taste a whisky made with such care and local ingredients is a significant draw for aficionados.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Grain-to-Glass' Philosophy
+1This commitment to self-sufficiency not only allows for unparalleled quality control but also supports local agriculture and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of ingredients. Visitors on a Copper Rivet Distillery tour can witness this entire journey firsthand, gaining a deep appreciation for the craft.
The distillery utilizes advanced technology alongside traditional knowledge, creating a fascinating blend of old and new. This dedication to the entire production chain is what sets their Masthouse Single Malt Whisky and Chatham Dockyard Gin apart, offering a truly authentic taste of Kent.
+1A Taste of History: Chatham Dockyard
This rich heritage is woven into the fabric of the distillery, influencing its name and its atmosphere. Visitors can feel the echoes of the past as they explore the distillery and its surroundings. The dockyard distillery setting provides a dramatic backdrop, with views of the river and the historic castle. This historical context adds another layer of depth to the experience, making it more than just a visit to a distillery.
This connection to history is also reflected in their branding and the stories shared during tours. Understanding the dockyard gin tour experience means appreciating not just the spirits, but the environment in which they are created.
It’s a place where industrial heritage meets modern craftsmanship. The Pumproom: Dining with a View
Reviewers consistently praise the food, describing it as 'immensely tasty' with satisfying portion sizes that don't leave you feeling overly full.
The combination of delicious food, a captivating historical setting, and picturesque views makes The Pumproom a significant draw for visitors. It complements the distillery experience perfectly, offering a place to unwind and savor the local flavors after a tour or tasting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit