Alumni-owned business featured on Channel 4’s Yorkshire By the Sea

Alumni Jessica and Luke wearing white t-shirts which read Whitby Distillery on them. They are working and smiling in Whitby Distillery together. The image is frame by some metal equipment and they are the focal point.

Loughborough alumni duo Jessica Slater (Drama and English 2012) and Luke Pentith (Mechanical Engineering 2011) co-founded Whitby Distillery. The pair met at Loughborough and took on a business venture in Yorkshire together.

Since launching in 2017, they have featured on a Channel 4 television programme, Yorkshire By the Sea. The show highlights inspiring stories of local businesses and communities along the Yorkshire coastline.  

The episode follows Jessica and Luke as they share the journey behind Whitby Distillery and showcase how they make their coastal spirits.  

The idea for Whitby Distillery was born in a utility room after a camping trip to Scotland. Although Jessica and Luke had never distilled anything before, they embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, learning as they went and pouring in hard work and dedication. Their backgrounds in business planning and food manufacturing provided a strong foundation for building the company.  

They now offer distillery tours and are keen to connect with fellow Loughborough alumni, whether you're nearby or just passing through Yorkshire. 

Check out recent updates on Whitby Distillery’s Instagram page.