Pimms

Made since the year 1840
from a closely guarded, secret recipe

The tradition of drinking Pimms No. 1 cup is almost as entrenched in British culture as the cup of tea. As soon as the sun comes out, it’s the drink of choice for many, especially for picnics and garden parties.

It was invented in the 1840’s by the owner of an oyster bar in the City of London. James Pimm offered a gin based drink containing quinine and a secret mixture of herbs, as an aid to digestion, and served it in a small tankard. This is where the "No. 1 Cup" slogan comes from.

After the Second World War they extended their range, using a number of other spirits as bases for new "cups". No. 2 cup was based on Scotch; No. 3 on brandy; No. 4 on rum; No. 5 on rye and No. 6 on vodka.

One litre bottle of the spirit drink makes around 20 servings, mixed with 3 litres of lemonade or other mixers.

For a sunny picnic drink try this refreshing recipe:

• 375ml (12fl oz) Pimms No.1
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• 125ml (4fl oz) gin
• 125ml (4fl oz) cranberry juice
• 1 litre (32 fl.oz) fizzy lemonade
• ice cubes
• strawberries, lemon slices and mint sprigs to garnish
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Chill the alcohol, lemonade and cranberry juice. Pack some ice cubes in a cool bag.

At the picnic fill one quarter of a large jug with ice cubes. Pour in the Pimms, gin, lemonade and cranberry juice. Stir well. Add strawberries, lemon slices and mint sprigs. Serve immediately.

If you want a less alcoholic Pimm’s, then substitute the gin and cranberry juice with ginger beer. Cucumber slices are often added as well.


Pimm’s No. 3, or Pimm’s Winter as it is now called, makes a perfect punch to warm you up when the sun goes in! Its brandy base is flavoured with cinnamon, zesty orange and caramel.

Simply mix 1 part Pimm's Winter with 3 parts clear apple juice, add some orange and apple slices, and heat gently. It also tastes delicious cold, mixed with ginger ale or lemonade.


As well as taking a look at our weather forecasting page, why not register for a weather alert at PIMM'S® ?! You'll get advance notice of when those sunny days are expected! You'll also find some more recipes on the site, as well as other surprises.

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