March 29, 2024

York railway station opens new gin shop in time for Christmas

York Gin’s new shop has just opened in between York station’s main entrance and the main concourse, marking the start of LNER’s efforts to give it a more local feel. More independent shops are earmarked to open in the coming months.

As well as gin gifts, large bottles and G&T cans and miniatures. a range of local beers and ales and products made by small local businesses including marmalade, key rings and greetings cards made by local artists will add to the shop’s York credentials.

A rush is expected on G&Ts (perfect for train journeys) and boxed sets of miniature bottles, which make great souvenirs and last-minute gifts.

Stunning double-height arched sash windows are inset in the York stone brick exterior walls, flooding the shop with light. The impressive space provided by the double height ceiling has allowed the creation of a unique hanging display with 40 types of dried flowers interspersed with hessian from bags of juniper berries and light bulbs inside cut-off York Gin bottles.

Victorian dressers from the Medical Society on Stonegate stand at either end of the shop, fitting nicely with the date of the station’s opening in 1877 when it was the largest in the world.

York Gin marketing director, Emma Godivala, said: “We’re crated a stylish and elegant space, celebrating our world-class products that are actually made in York.

“We want to provide a delightful welcome for those who have just arrived in the city – and a beautiful final memory for those about to leave.”

The shop will create the equivalent of four to five new full-time jobs. Initial opening hours will be 9.30am until 8.30pm – but may change depending on demand.

The iconic York Gin logo and ‘History in the Tasting’ motto leaves travellers in no doubt that this is a York company inspired by the city’s incredible history.

Claire Ansley, Customer Experience Director at LNER, said: “We’re passionate about supporting local businesses along our route and are delighted to be able to do this at York Station by welcoming York Gin as the latest retailer to open their doors. Together with the opening of the First Class Lounge earlier in the year, York Gin will help provide a brilliant experience for the many thousands of visitors who come to the city every week.”

York Gin Co-founder and Commercial Director, Pete McNichol, said: “It’s fantastic that LNER are trying to give the station a local feel, and encouraging independent companies like York Gin. Our shop will help to give the station a truly York feel.

“It’s brilliant that we’re creating new employment opportunities in York. All the jobs are paid the Living Wage and come with great prospects, working for a company that wants to do the best for its people and the planet. We’ve used local businesses to help create our unique shop – and we’re delighted to be showcasing brilliant locally-produced goods on our shelves.”