How to Make a Proper Pimm’s – Britain’s Favourite Summer Drink 🇬🇧

If summer in Britain had a flavour, it would be Pimm’s. Fruity, refreshing, and unapologetically British, this iconic drink is synonymous with sunshine, tennis, and garden parties where no one actually sits in the shade.

And while the Americans might call it a Pimm’s Cup, we’re here to show you how to make it the proper way – the way it’s been enjoyed at Wimbledon since the 1970s.

🍓 What Is Pimm’s?

Pimm’s No.1 is a British gin-based liqueur, infused with fruit and herbs. It was invented in the 1840s by James Pimm, who originally served it as a tonic in his London oyster bar.

Over time, it went from medicinal mixer to the unofficial drink of British summer, especially at Wimbledon and Henley. Its fruity profile, low ABV, and habit of showing up in large jugs filled with fresh fruit and cucumber made it a staple for sunny days and polite social gatherings.

In the U.S., it’s often referred to as a Pimm’s Cup — possibly to distinguish it from the bottled spirit itself, do you know? Either way, the drink is the same: Pimm’s, lemonade, fruit, ice, and mint — sunshine in a glass.

How To Make A Proper Pimm’s

Ingredients:

• 50ml Pimm’s No.1

• 150ml British style lemonade (we recommend R White’s Lemonade for a proper British taste)

• Plenty of ice

• A handful of fresh mint

• Sliced cucumber

• Sliced strawberries

• A few orange slices

Method:

1. Fill a tall glass or jug with ice.

2. Add the Pimm’s 

3. Top up with lemonade.

4. Stir in your cucumber, strawberries, orange slices, and mint.

5. Pour, sip, and pretend you’re courtside at Centre Court, politely applauding a backhand volley.

When To Serve It

• Wimbledon watch parties

• Summer BBQs

• Garden gatherings

• Sunday lunch with a bit of sunshine

• Any time you want something fruity, light, and unmistakably British

Where To Get Your Ingredients

We stock R White’s Lemonade (the real deal), plus all the snacks, crisps, and pies you’ll want on hand to go with it.
Shop British drinks & picnic essentials →

Looking for Pimm’s No.1?
You can usually find it at your local liquor store. Or try here to start:
Search “Pimm’s No.1 near me” on Google

🇬🇧 Cheers to Summer, the British Way

Whether you're in Buffalo or Baton Rouge, a proper glass of Pimm’s brings a little taste of British summer wherever you are. Easy to make, easier to enjoy — it’s a tradition worth raising a glass to.