🍹 Pimm’s and Lemonade: The Ultimate Summer Refresher
When the sun starts shining and the days grow long, there’s one drink that perfectly captures the spirit of a British summer — Pimm’s and Lemonade. This fruity, fizzy, and colorful cocktail is as much a staple of garden parties and Wimbledon picnics as strawberries and cream. Whether you’re hosting friends or just looking to cool down with something tasty, Pimm’s is a must-try.
🌿 What is Pimm’s?
Pimm’s No.1 Cup is a gin-based liqueur invented in 1840 by James Pimm in London. It’s made with a blend of herbs, spices, and citrus fruits, resulting in a light, fruity, and slightly spiced flavor. It’s designed to be mixed, most famously with lemonade (the clear, fizzy kind), to create a long, refreshing drink.
🧾 Ingredients
To make the classic Pimm’s and Lemonade, you’ll need:
For One Large Jug (serves 4–6):
- 200 ml Pimm’s No.1
- 600 ml lemonade (sparkling, not the cloudy still kind)
- 1/2 cucumber (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 orange (sliced into wedges or wheels)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- A handful of strawberries, halved
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Optional additions: Apple slices, raspberries, or a splash of ginger ale for extra zing.
🥄 Method
- Fill a large jug halfway with ice.
- Pour in the Pimm’s No.1 and top up with lemonade (maintain a 1:3 ratio of Pimm’s to lemonade).
- Add the fruit and herbs: drop in the sliced cucumber, oranges, lemons, strawberries, and a generous handful of mint leaves.
- Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- Serve in tall glasses with extra ice and a sprig of mint or a slice of fruit for garnish.
🍓 Tips for the Perfect Pimm’s
- Chill everything beforehand — especially the lemonade and Pimm’s — for extra refreshment.
- Don’t skimp on the fruit: It’s not just for garnish! The combination of citrus and berries makes the drink burst with flavor.
- Customize your mix: Some people like to add a splash of soda water or ginger ale to lighten the sweetness.
- Want it stronger? Adjust the Pimm’s-to-lemonade ratio to 1:2.
🧊 Alcohol-Free Version (Mocktail)
Love the fruity vibes but want to skip the alcohol? Make a Pimm’s-style mocktail:
- Replace Pimm’s with a mix of chilled black tea + a splash of orange juice + a dash of balsamic vinegar or bitters (for complexity).
- Mix with lemonade and follow the same recipe — fruit and all.
🎉 When to Serve Pimm’s
- Garden parties
- BBQs
- Picnics
- Brunch
- Summer weddings
- Or just any sunny afternoon!
Final Sip ☀️
Pimm’s and Lemonade is more than just a drink — it’s a symbol of sunny days, laughter with friends, and classic British charm. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to serve all season long.
