A new city trail could be just the tonic for gin lovers – with a host of businesses offering free tastings.

The Gin Fling is being held in Canterbury’s King’s Mile from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday, August 26, where visitors can wander the historic streets and enjoy a tipple at participating venues.

The gins on offer will be varieties made by independent local producers, including new alcohol-free versions.

Gin Fling 2023 is organised by the King’s Mile Independent Traders Group and follows on from the success of last year’s inaugural event which was supported by more than 300 visitors.

The 10 hosting businesses are The Ballroom, The Fig, Bo-concept, the Lilford art gallery, the Drapers Arms, Moo like a Monkey, Lily’s Bistro, Paxton & Whitfield Cheesemongers, hair and beauty salon, The Chair, and Oscar & Bentleys bistro.

Simon Ness, of the traders’ group, says the aim is to attract more visitors to the King’s Mile where almost 100 small independent shops, including shops, cafes and restaurants are a refreshing tonic to the big familiar high street chains.

The area includes Sun Street, Palace Street, Guildhall Street, Orange Street, The Borough, and Northgate.

“It’s a haven for anyone seeking the taste and feel of real Canterbury,” says Simon who runs The Ballroom.

“But we’ve suffered since the closure of Debenhams and this is a way of reminding visitors what we have to offer in this quarter of the city.

“It was a great success last year with around 300 people taking part which is why we have decided to do it again.

“It also raises awareness of our local gin makers who will be on hand to talk about their distilling processes and produce which will be on sale, of course.”

Visitors will be offered a free different gin – a third of a tot – at each of the businesses taking part, including Fever-Tree mixers.

About 400 maps/clue cards available on the day on a first come first served basis, which can be collected from The Ballroom in Orange Street, Canterbury.

For more information go to www.theballroom.co.uk.