Little Lon: The Melbourne Gin Bar Making Spirits with a Story
Tucked away behind Parliament Station in a red-brick cottage barely bigger than a lounge room, Little Lon is one of the most atmospheric gin bars in Melbourne. It’s a place where every bottle tells a story—and every story comes with a generous pour of small-batch gin.
We join one of Little Lon’s signature Gin Masterclasses for an afternoon of sipping, storytelling and slow appreciation of some truly outstanding gins. It is both fun and fascinating—and the Ginger Mick might just be my new favourite drop. If you’re looking for something a bit special—whether you’re a local or showing off Melbourne to visitors—this Melbourne gin experience is a real treat.
The Melbourne Gin Bar Serving a Side of History
Little Lon Distilling Co. isn’t just another stop on the gin Melbourne trail—it’s steeped in the city’s lesser-known (and juicier) past. Housed in the last remaining single-storey cottage in the CBD, the heritage-listed building was once a brothel in what was known as the red-light district of Melbourne.
Back in the early 1900s, ‘going to Little Lon’ meant gambling houses, opium dens, sly grog shops, and ladies of the night.
Today, it’s home to Melbourne’s smallest working distillery—and hosts one of the most engaging gin experiences we’ve had.
A Gin Masterclass with a Twist of History
Lynden, one half of the duo behind Little Lon, runs the 90-minute masterclass himself. He’s a brilliant storyteller, using old photos, maps, and characters from the area to bring the history to life.
The gin masterclass ($85 per person) includes a welcome G&T, a tasting of their core four gins, a distillery tour, and a cocktail to finish. Between sips, we hear tales of sly grog shops, brothels, constables and conmen. It’s gin, yes—but it’s also time travel!
The distillery space itself is astonishingly compact—just 3 metres by 3 metres! But everything is done onsite, from distilling their own ethanol to hand-bottling every batch.
Want to up your cocktail game? Little Lon also runs Cocktail Masterclasses, where you’ll learn how to build, stir, and shake your way to cocktail glory—using their own gin, of course
Book your spot or buy a gift certificate at: littlelondistillingco.com
Terrie’s review
I did not know that there was a place in the City of Melbourne called “Little Lon”. A heritage listed red brick cottage (c1877) in the CBD was the site of an amazing Gin Masterclass Experience.
Our host and owner, Lynden, kept us thoroughly enthralled with his revelation of the rich history of the Little Lon District, while we sampled various flavours of Gin, made right there in the tiniest room of the cottage, which once was “the Bedroom.”
I’m not much of a gin drinker, but with sunny weather, lots of laughs while learning about this once slum area of the CBD, and the undeniable good quality gin, made for a delightful hour/hour and a half. The cottage, cobbled laneways, even the tall buildings surrounding us in the little courtyard, the old and the new together, just brought this area alive. I do suggest you eat before embarking on this great experience, as no food is available except if you ordered something from a nearby food outlet. Being in the cottage for the tastings had an incredible feeling of “yesteryear”. Loved it, but as I’m in my 70s, I did find the backless stools soon made me want an ordinary, comfortable chair.
This was a thought-provoking and very enjoyable experience. We couldn’t resist buying 2 bottles (with a free T Shirt!). We chose “Ginger Mick” and “Miss Yoko”. These have been named after some of the notorious characters of the day. One is supposedly for a gift (as if!)
– Terrie
Our Favourite Gins (and the Stories Behind Them)
Each of Little Lon’s house gins is inspired by a real local character from the past, and each one has its own distinct personality. Here’s a taste:
Ginger Mick
Bright, crisp, and citrusy with a tickle of ginger, Ginger Mick is inspired by the larrikin made famous in CJ Dennis’s poems. Best served neat or with Fever Tree Mediterranean tonic—or try it in their signature Gintarito.
Dutchy Thomas
Little Lon’s take on Genever, this one’s where whisky meets gin. Think malty, chocolatey, and buttery smooth. A real nod to the Dutch roots of gin and to Arthur ‘Dutchy’ Thomas—full of swagger and, we’re told, a touch of “Dutch courage”.
Miss Yoko
Our top pick! Miss Yoko is made with 15kg of lychees per batch. It’s subtly sweet, delicately spiced and wonderfully fragrant. Named after a seductress of old Little Lon, she’s best served with Fever Tree’s Elderflower Tonic or shaken into a lychee martini.
Proudfoot
A London Dry-style gin named for Constable Proudfoot—the local lawman. Big on juniper with rosemary and pine on the nose and a peppery finish, this one’s perfect in a classic G&T or stirred down into a martini.
Where to Sit and Sip
Whether you’re popping in for a quiet gin or settling in for a lively masterclass, Little Lon offers a variety of charming spots to enjoy your tipple—each with its own character and comfort level.
Inside The Cottage
Step into history with a seat inside the original 1870s two-bedroom Heritage Listed Cottage.
This is the heart of Little Lon—a snug cocktail bar that feels more like someone’s (slightly cheeky) living room. It’s intimate, full of charm, and perfect for those who love being close to the action. Seating is on high stools only, and unfortunately, it’s not wheelchair accessible.
The Cottage Courtyard
Right by the distillery itself, this partially covered and heated nook brings you closer to the craft. Picnic-style tables give it a casual vibe—note there’s no back support here, so it’s better suited for shorter stays or those happy to perch.
The Gin Garden
Surrounded by leafy botanicals, herbs, and citrus trees, this spacious outdoor area is a favourite on warm afternoons or balmy evenings.
It’s fully heated and set under umbrellas and fairy lights, with comfortable chairs and back support to keep you there a little longer.
Just Visiting for a Tipple?
If you’re a fan of gin Melbourne-style—bold, botanical, and bursting with character—then this is one stop you shouldn’t miss.
Even if you’re not up for a full masterclass, the Little Lon gin bar is well worth a visit. Grab a G&T flight, sit out the front with a view of the laneway, and enjoy a little slice of living history.
And if Lynden’s around, ask him to share a story or two—he’s more than happy to chat.
Planning a Group Outing?
Little Lon is a brilliant option for group catch-ups or celebrations. For groups of 8 or more, you can book a private masterclass or tasting outside normal opening hours.
It’s a fun, relaxed activity that’s a bit different, and perfect for anyone who enjoys a good story with their gin.
Make It a Day Out
Why not turn it into a full city adventure? Before or after your masterclass, stroll through the nearby Carlton Gardens. You could even pop into Melbourne Museum or the Old Melbourne Gaol, or find a cosy spot for a meal on Bourke Street.
Need-to-Know Details
Gin Bar & Distillery Hours:
Wednesday: 4pm – 8pm
Thursday & Friday: 4pm – 9:30pm
Saturday: 2pm – 10pm
Sunday – Tuesday: Closed or upon group requests
Public Holidays: Check socials for updates
Gin Masterclass:
Saturdays at 1pm and 3pm
$85 per person
Cocktail Masterclass:
Upon request
Little Lon Accessibility
The historic cottage is compact and has a couple of steps at the entrance, so access may be tricky for some. The outdoor seating areas are spacious, mostly undercover and accessible via ramps.
There are shared toilets on Madame Brussels Lane, including accessible bathrooms. Just ask a staff member for the access key.
It’s best to call ahead if you have specific access needs.
Getting There
Take any tram along Bourke, Lonsdale or Spring Streets or get off at Parliament Station via the City Loop—it’s just a short distance from the Lonsdale Street exit.
Little Lon Melbourne Distilling Co.
17 Casselden Place, Melbourne VIC 3000
[email protected]
Heading off on your own Melbourne adventures? Join our Facebook Group and share your stories, ask questions and connect with others for further inspiration.
