Yorkshire’s ‘first gin bar’ to open next month
Co-owners Lee Kirman and Charlotte Bailey are investing £160,000 in Humber Street Distillery Co with £50,000 being spent on a bespoke, 150-litre gin still, which is being imported from Germany.
The duo rejuvenated the nearby Minerva pub and the new venture follows the success of two Minerva gin festivals.
Humber Street Distillery Co is the latest addition to Hull's Fruit Market, which is being revamped by Wykeland Beal – the joint venture company formed by regeneration company Wykeland Group and housebuilder Beal Homes.
Taking inspiration
The new bar will open next month in the heart of Hull’s Fruit Market in Humber Street.
Co-owner Lee Kirman took inspiration from bars in cities such as London and Edinburgh but wanted to take things a step further by distilling gin on its own site.
He said: “We knew we could make a real success of it because gin is seeing such a resurgence in popularity.
“We stock around 50 varieties of gin at the Minerva and they go down really well with our customers. Our first gin festival last October was also a great success."
Understanding the concept
He added: “We approached Wykeland Beal about opportunities in the Fruit Market and they have been really positive and supportive.
“We felt they really understood the concept and wanted us to be part of the exciting rebirth of Humber Street.
“The Fruit Market area is seeing massive regeneration and investment and we felt the time was right to bring our new business venture to fruition.
“We fell it will fit in perfectly as part of the growing community of independent businesses in Humber Street.”
