This year’s Demo Kitchen is shaping up to be one of the best yet – and we’re thrilled to be welcoming Eight Two O Spirits to the line-up. After a full day exploring the Showground, don’t miss the final demos of the day with brothers Tom and Jonny, founders of the award-winning local gin brand.

The Story Behind the Spirits

Eight Two O is proudly owned and run by brothers Tom and Jonny. Tom’s journey began at university, where revising for chemical engineering exams took a creative turn – he built a still and began experimenting with distilling his own gin. Using his housemates as expert taste testers, he refined his recipes and quickly developed a knack for crafting bold, flavourful spirits.

Jonny, meanwhile, had long been a fan of a G&T. With a gin bar just around the corner from his student house in Bristol, he was well-versed in the world of gin. When Tom asked him to try a new creation, Jonny immediately knew his brother was onto something special – and just like that, Eight Two O was born.

Cocktail Demos with a Local Twist

Tom and Jonny will be bringing their energy and passion to the Showground with hands-on cocktail classes in the Demo Kitchen across all three days of the Show. Each session will close out the Demo Kitchen schedule for the day, so it’s the perfect way to wind down in style.

Confirmed cocktails include:

The Lymington Lady – Crafted with Eight Two O’s Miss Hanne’s Lymington Pink Gin, distilled using strawberries grown on Goodall’s strawberry fields, located less than two miles from the distillery (just over seven miles from the Showground). 🍓 

The Sloejito – Made with their signature New Forest sloe gin. Traditionally a winter spirit, the Sloejito brings a fresh, fruity twist that’s bright, not too sweet, and delightfully moreish.

Don’t Miss It

Whether you’re a gin lover or simply curious about the craft behind your favourite cocktails, Eight Two O’s sessions promise good fun, great drinks, and expert tips from two local entrepreneurs who live and breathe their craft.

📍Demo Kitchen

📅 29th, 30th, 31st July

🕛 Final session of the day – check the timetable or Showguide on the day for details

Book your tickets before 14th July to enjoy our early bird discount!

Want to see what else is happening at this year’s Show? Head to our What’s On page to explore everything from other chefs and demos to family fun, livestock, local produce, shopping, and more.