Beefeater London Dry Gin dates back to 1863, when pharmacist James Burrough purchased the Chelsea distillery and began developing the recipe for the gin that would become famous. The name "Beefeater" is a tribute to the guards of the Tower of London and was chosen to reflect the gin's London character. Production continues in London to this day, using the same recipe of nine botanicals, including juniper, orange, and lemon peels, and a maceration and redistillation process in copper stills.

Beefeater gin is known for its classic juniper flavor and citrus notes, making it one of the leading representatives of the London Dry Gin style. It is often used in classic cocktails such as the Dry Martini and Gin and Tonic.