Yorkshire may be best known for its ales, puddings, and rolling dales — but it’s also home to a rising tide of artisan rum makers putting a distinct northern stamp on this traditionally tropical spirit. From small-batch spiced rums to bold aged blends, here are five Yorkshire rum distilleries you’ll want to try, whether you're a neat sipper or a cocktail crafter.
1. Libations Rum – Whitby, North Yorkshire
Seaside Sophistication
Flagship: Libations Spiced Rum
Based in the historic coastal town of Whitby, Libations Rum is proudly Yorkshire-made and full of charm. Their Spiced Rum is matured in ex-sherry casks and infused with vanilla, clove, orange, and a touch of Yorkshire honey — smooth, warming, and just the right amount of indulgent. Great in a dark 'n' stormy or sipped by a seaside fire.
2. Forged Spirits – Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Forging New Paths in Craft Spirits
Flagship: Forged Rum (Spiced)
Originally known for their gins, Forged Spirits brings their precision and quality to the rum world with a well-balanced Spiced Rum. Infused with all-natural botanicals and made in small batches, it’s a clean, rich spirit with a focus on warmth rather than overwhelming sweetness. A great local option for cocktails.
3. Outlaw Rum – Yorkshire Dales
Aged with Attitude
Flagship: Outlaw 3 Year Old Aged Rum
Outlaw Rum isn’t distilled in Yorkshire — they import molasses-based spirit from the Caribbean — but what makes them unique is that they mature it in ex-whisky barrels in the Yorkshire Dales, combining the tropical with the terroir of the North. Their 3-year-old expression is smooth, oaky, and slightly smoky — ideal for whisky lovers venturing into rum.
4. Hotham’s – Hull, East Yorkshire
Gin Roots, Rum Spirit
Flagship: Hotham’s Spiced Rum
Founded as a gin distillery, Hotham’s in Hull has expanded into artisanal rum, crafting a spiced variant infused with locally sourced ingredients. Expect cinnamon, clove, and citrus, all balanced in a well-rounded profile. Their tasting experiences also make for a great introduction to rum in a stylish setting.
5. Yorkshire Dales Distillery – Colburn, North Yorkshire
Rum with a Rural Twist
Flagship: Resolute Rum
Handcrafted in small batches, the Resolute Rum range includes white, spiced, and overproof editions. Their spiced rum is smooth and complex, with layers of vanilla, caramel, and warm spice — perfect for long winter nights or spicing up your rum & coke. They pride themselves on quality and traceability, with a strong sense of place.
Final Word: Rum Reimagined in Yorkshire
Rum may not be the first drink you associate with Yorkshire, but these distillers are proving that you don’t need palm trees to make great rum — just craftsmanship, creativity, and a bit of that famous Yorkshire grit.
Next time you're stocking your home bar or planning a tasting session, skip the imports and support local. You might just find your new favourite dram closer to home than you think.
Sláinte — or as they say in Yorkshire, cheers!