A tour of Devon’s creative craft spirit scene

Mandi Keighran explores the southwest’s distilleries in search of an innovative tipple (or two)

Places like Salcombe have birthed creative new distilleries (Mandi Keighran)

Devon is home to some of the country’s most creative spirits – and, as I discovered on a recent trip through the picturesque coastal county, the people behind them are just as intriguing. 

In Salcombe, you’ll find gin inspired by the Salcombe “fruiters” (ships) and created in collaboration with Michelin-starred chefs; across the headland in Hope Cove, there’s a family farm turning King Edward potatoes into vodka; just up the coast, past Exeter, is the world’s first carbon negative distillery; and turn to the north and you’ll find a gin crafted with local meadowsweet, whortleberries and heather.

This emerging creative craft spirits scene goes hand-in-hand with tasting experiences, masterclasses and a host of excellent bars in which to indulge in a tipple, making this corner of the UK the perfect spot to explore. In these troubling times, we could all probably do with a stiff drink or two – combine it with some of the country’s most beautiful coastline, and you’re on to a winner.