Scottish hospitality operators, Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, has set its sights on the booming UK gin market as it prepares to relaunch its 1881 brand this month.
The unveiling coincides with Charlie Leckie, a sixth generation member of the Leckie family, taking the helm of the award-winning gin distillery in Peebles to drive forward the growth strategy for the 1881 gin brand.

The family run business has made significant £500,000 investment in upgrading the distillery to ensure supply can meet demand. The 1881 Gin Distillery is the UK’s largest residential gin school located within the 132- bedroom Peebles Hydro Hotel and resort, with a distillery classroom boasting 26 mini-stills.

Chairman and CEO of Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels Stephen Leckie with his son Charlie at the 1881 Gin Distillery and school at Peebles Hydro. Nov 2020. ©Gareth Easton