Operator guides
How to Start & Run a UK Distillery
Independent, current, UK-specific guides to the things that actually stop people starting a distillery: the licence, the duty, the costs and the cover. No vendor pitch — just the real process in 2026.
01How to Start a Distillery in the UKThe end-to-end path from idea to first legal sale — licence, duty, premises, equipment and costs.Read the guide→02Distiller's Licence UK: The APPA ProcessThe current HMRC approval that replaced the withdrawn DLA1 — who needs it, how to apply, and timelines.Read the guide→03UK Distillery Startup CostsWhat it really costs to start — micro gin from £70k to whisky-capable £500k+ — broken down line by line.Read the guide→04Craft Distillery Insurance UKThe specialist cover distilleries need and why standard policies miss stills, stock and flammable-vapour risk.Read the guide→
Thinking about insurance for a new or growing distillery? Start with our craft distillery insurance guide.