Nestled in the heart of historic York, a new gem has emerged, marrying the industrial atmosphere of an award wining distillery with the sophistication and comfort of a gentleman's club. This fusion has given birth to a haven where timeless elegance meets the charm of a unique space and we have had the most amazing time working on it!

*Exterior of The Hooting Owl Distillery.*

A PALETTE OF DISTINCTION

As you step into new The Hooting Owl Distillery establishment, your senses are immediately drawn in by the rich hues that adorn the walls and ceiling. Brewer by Coat, a dignified shade of green, envelops the walls and Dodie, a brooding grey the ceiling, exuding warmth and refinement giving the perfect backdrop for all the stunning copper and warm wood that is woven throughout the building.

Sumptuous Textiles and Intricate Detailing

The ambiance of the lounge is further elevated by the exquisite curtains, made for us by Sommer Rose Interiors. Crafted in rich tones of caramel, burgundy, and mulberry velvets, these opulent drapes not only complement the dark tones of the interior but also warm the space with a sense of comfort, adding depth and texture to the vibe.

The flooring, an homage to the distillery founder’s military legacy, boasts the Gordon Regimental tartan by Hugh Mackay. Its distinguished pattern, reminiscent of a bygone era, pays tribute to Dom M'Benga's heritage, weaving history into every step taken within the venue.

Seating Fit for Royalty

No lounge would be complete without comfortable seating arrangements, and these, courtesy of The Chaise Longue Company, work perfectly. Upholstered in rich chocolate leathers, greens and caramel tones, these bespoke pieces mirror the decadence of our curtains, inviting patrons to recline in style and revel in the theatre of the distillery that sits at the heart of this venue.

A Testament to Sustainability and Heritage

At the core Hooting Owl’s ethos lies a commitment to sustainability and reverence for history. Where possible, the build team incorporated reclaimed oak wood from the venue's rip-out, breathing new life into old materials and reducing wastage including the new oak bar, wood detailing and the distillery viewing windows. A wall of reclaimed barrel staves is the perfect frame for the distillery, which is visible from most areas on the Ground Floor. Warm brick and stone elements, reminiscent of York's storied past, add to the aged interiors, seamlessly blending the old with the new and lending an air of authenticity to the space.

Trinkets, tales and hidden Delights

Amidst the uniqueness of the Distillery and Lounge lie treasures waiting to be discovered, each adding an extra layer of adventure and intrigue to the experience of the venue.

As you spend time at Hooting Owl, keep an eye out for the unexpected. In every nook and cranny, Dom's eclectic collection of trinkets and memorabilia finds its place, each item bearing witness to a story he’ll tell. From vintage curios to timeless artifacts, these treasures serve as a testament to a life well-lived and a passion for the extraordinary. Take a moment to explore, for every object holds a tale waiting to be shared. Among these masterpieces are portraits of esteemed distillery staff pets, immortalized in regal attire that befits their noble spirits. Here, you may catch a glimpse of Audrey, our very own beloved English Pointer, her dignified presence forever etched in our hearts and now gracing Hooting Owl’s walls.

*A glass window to the distillery gives full viewing access to the impressive copper stills and the master distiller at work.*

THE FUN CONTINUES

But the journey doesn't end there—for those with a keen eye and a sense of adventure, there are hidden delights scattered throughout our distillery and lounge. From subtle nods to York's storied past to playful surprises that spark joy, the attentive observer will find that every corner holds a delightful surprise waiting to be unearthed. So, keep your senses sharp and your curiosity piqued—there's magic to be found for those who dare to seek it.

We hope that you enjoy your visit to Hooting Owl when you get there. Do let us know what you think! As Dom would say - you’ll have a hoot!