Summer days were made for sipping on a refreshing Pimm’s and lemonade, and if you’re a fan of this classic British drink, you have James Pimm to thank. Pimm, a man hailing from the village of Newnham in Kent, invented this iconic drink in the 1820s or 1830s.
The Story of Pimms
The story goes that Pimm (1798–1866), a farmer’s son turned restaurant owner. In 1823, Pimm opened his first oyster bar near the Bank of England in the City of London, catering to City workers and wealthier patrons. He wanted to create a drink that would be both thirst-quenching and easy to make.
After much experimentation, he came up with Pimm’s No.1, which was made with gin and a secret blend of herbs and spices. The drink was an instant hit and soon, Pimm’s bars began popping up all over London.
But Pimm’s didn’t just stop at No.1, over the years, Pimm added more variations of the drink. Pimm’s No. 2 used scotch whisky as a base, Pimm’s No.3 used brandy.
Pimm’s became iconic in British summer culture and is now owned by Diageo, since 1997.
Pimm’s O’Clock: How to Enjoy this British Classic
Today, Pimm’s is enjoyed all over the world, but it’s still particularly popular in the UK, especially on hot summer days. Pimm’s and lemonade has become an iconic British summer drink, the drink of choice at the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament, summer garden parties, and more.
Sipping on Summer: The Perfect Pimms Recipe
The classic Pimm’s and lemonade recipe is simple, add ice, cucumber, orange and borage (or mint) to a pitcher of Pimm’s and top with lemonade. For an extra twist, add in some strawberries and raspberries for a touch of sweetness.
And if you’re looking to enjoy a Pimm’s in its home county, you’re in luck because Kent is home to some fantastic gin producers.
Gin producers in Kent
From traditional copper stills to modern, cutting-edge distilleries, Kent has a wide range of gin producers that produce some truly outstanding gin.
Sip, Sip, Hooray!
So next time you raise a glass of Pimm’s, take a moment to thank James Pimm for his invention and consider sampling some of the fantastic gin produced in his home county of Kent. Cheers!
