Plans submitted for Northumberland distillery

A family has submitted a planning application to build a multi-million-pound distillery in Northumberland, which would bring English whisky production back to the county for the first time in 200 years.

The Ad Gefrin Distillery will produce gin and English single malt whisky

Plans to build the Ad Gefrin Distillery are subject to approval from Northumberland County Council. The distillery is expected to open in 2020 and will create up to 50 jobs.

The Ad Gefrin Distillery and visitor centre will be developed and run by the Ferguson family who operate a number of local businesses, and will be located at the former Redparth’s Yard in Wooler. It will produce English single malt whisky, gin, aqua vitae and other spirits.

Local architect Ricard Elphich is responsible for the design of the distillery, which is inspired by the heritage of Glendale, the history behind the name of Ad Gefrin, and whisky production.

Ad Gefrin takes its name from the Anglo-Saxon palace beneath Yeavering Bell – the Hill of the Goats. Elphich has based the design of the building on the palace.

Eileen Ferguson commented: “We are really thrilled with the plans which Richard has produced as they combine the Anglo-Saxon Hall of Ad Gefrin, and the wider historical landscape of Northumberland and Northumberland’s National Park.

“From the outset, our aim was to have a multi-faceted building which would bring the history and heritage of where we love to live, and one which would attract a range of markets to provide year-round business.

“Richard has delivered this, and the Ad Gefrin Distillery will help in putting Wooler on the map, serving as a gateway to the town and a stopping off point for travellers.”