What a hoot!

We’re immensely lucky to have so many great attractions on our doorstep in west Norfolk.

One of those close by to us is the fabulous WhataHoot gin distillery. A multi-award award-winning distillery in the heart of historic King’s Lynn based in a 17th century warehouse, packed full of original features including wooden beams and exposed brickwork, which has been sympathetically restored and converted to create a home for WhataHoot.

I recently headed over to meet the team and experience gin school – the perfect mid-morning break from work at Watatunga! Armed with over 30 botanicals and your own still, the possibilities are endless.

Whether it’s mastering the perfect cocktail in a masterclass or crafting your very own gin under expert guidance, WhataHoot promises and does deliver (take my word for it!) an engaging and memorable experience.The highlight for me was discovering that this historic corner of King’s Lynn, perfect for an evening stroll, has a world-class cocktail bar right by the river. It’s the perfect follow on from a tour at the reserve and its located just a stone’s throw away in Kings Lynn. So enthused was I that we’ve been plotting how to make this easy for Watatunga visitors and we’re partnering up to offer a combined experience to make for the perfect mid-week expedition with friends.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays between April and mid-July, we’re offering a discounted Watatunga – WhataHoot combined tour package.  Rope in some friends who you’ve been meaning to spend a day with, join a 10.00 wildlife tour as a group of four and drive your own self-drive buggy through the Watatunga site as an expert guide introduces you to the stories of our stunning species. 

Relax post-tour before making your way to nearby King’s Lynn and the WhataHoot distillery for a 14.00 start.  Here you’ll be welcomed into a world where tradition meets creativity. You can delve into the distillery’s secrets with a guided tour and uncover the intricate process that transforms botanicals into the beloved spirit. The team are passionate about what they do, and after a 90-minute tour you can relax with a large G&T in their beautiful bar.

This combined experience is heavily discounted.  The price for four people is £130.00 which is only £32.50 per person!  Between the experiences, WhataHoot can offer a charcuterie board at additional cost and cater for all dietary requirements, or you’re welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy post-tour at Watatunga.

These sessions are not just about learning; they’re about sharing passion and creativity, making them perfect for any special occasion, from corporate events to celebratory gatherings.  For those eager to learn more about the craft, the distillery’s Gin School offers a unique chance to create a personal gin blend. Next time I’ll bring botanicals from the reserve and we’ll be serving eland elixir, sambar sauce, the bongo brew in no time!

You can book the combined experience and find out more here.