Pimm’s Cup Cocktail Recipe: A Classic British Drink
Article & Photos by: allie albanese
Learn how to make the perfect Pimm’s Cup cocktail, a crisp and citrusy British classic. Discover its history, key ingredients, easy variations, and the best ways to serve this refreshing drink for any occasion.
Nothing says British summer quite like a Pimm’s Cup cocktail. Crisp, citrusy, and super easy to drink, it’s a staple at Wimbledon, The Henley Royal Regatta, and garden parties across the UK.
First created in 19th-century London as a gin-based digestif, this fresh, herbaceous drink quickly evolved into a go-to cocktail for warm-weather gatherings. Over time, it made its way around the world, finding a second home in New Orleans, where it’s just as popular as it is across the pond.
Light, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable, a Pimm’s Cup is the perfect daytime cocktail. Its signature mix of Pimm’s No. 1, a fizzy mixer, and fresh garnishes makes it a fun and refreshing choice for any occasion.
Here’s everything you need to know about this classic British cocktail — what goes in it, how to make it, and the best ways to put your own spin on it.
What Is a Pimm’s Cup Drink?
A Pimm’s Cup cocktail is a light and citrusy drink made with Pimm’s No. 1, a gin-based liqueur infused with fruit and spices. Traditionally mixed with lemonade or ginger ale, it’s served over ice and piled high with cucumber, mint, strawberries, and citrus. The result is crisp, herbaceous, and just the right amount of sweet — exactly the kind of drink you want in hand on a warm afternoon.
But a Pimm’s Cup isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a British summer tradition. From garden parties and picnics to summer gatherings and outdoor events, pitchers of this quintessential British cocktail are often spotted alongside trays of finger sandwiches.
It’s also the signature cocktail of Wimbledon and a favorite tipple among spectators enjoying the matches from home or nearby pubs, as well as a staple at The Henley Royal Regatta and other social gatherings where a light, refreshing cocktail is in order. And thanks to its low alcohol content, the Wimbeldom Pimm’s Cup is perfect for sipping through the afternoon without slowing down the fun!
What Does a Pimm’s Cup Taste Like?
If a Gin and Tonic and fruit punch had a sophisticated British cousin, it would be the Pimm’s Cup. The base, Pimm’s No. 1, brings notes of bitter orange, warm spices, and herbal tea, while the mixer — whether lemonade or ginger ale — adds sweetness and effervescence. Unlike some heavier cocktails, this one is designed for the summer months, keeping things crisp and refreshing.
And the fresh garnishes aren’t just for looks! They add layers of flavor. Cucumber makes it crisp, citrus adds brightness and acidity, and strawberries bring a touch of natural sweetness. A sprig of mint ties it all together, making each sip feel as cool and refreshing as a shady spot on a hot summer day!
Is a Pimm’s Cup Sweet?
A Pimm’s Cup is a little bit sweet, but it’s far from a sugary cocktail. It all depends on the mixer used.
Traditional British-style lemonade (which is more like lemon-lime soda) keeps it fresh and citrusy, while ginger ale adds a touch of warmth and spice. The addition of fresh fruit like strawberries and oranges naturally enhances the sweetness, but overall, the drink remains crisp rather than overly sugary…and impossible to put down!
Pimm’s Cup History
The Pimm’s Cup origin dates back to the early 1800s, when James Pimm, owner of a London oyster bar, created a gin-based digestif meant to aid digestion. Served in a small tankard called a “No. 1 Cup,” his blend of gin, herbs, and spices quickly became popular among his patrons. Over time, what started as a botanical-infused tonic evolved into a light, fruit-forward cocktail that became a staple of British drinking culture.
By the 20th century, Pimms Cups had outgrown their original purpose and become a fixture at garden parties, sporting events, and outdoor gatherings. Much like the Mint Julep at the Kentucky Derby, today you’ll find it served at Wimbledon, The Henley Royal Regatta, and countless warm-weather celebrations where a light, refreshing cocktail is in order. During the weeks of Wimbledon, this low-alcohol cocktail is just as much a tradition as strawberries and cream, served in bars, restaurants, and private gatherings throughout the tournament.
The Pimm’s Cup belongs to a long tradition of fruit cups, a category of British summertime drinks first created by the Victorians. Originally, a fruit cup was a homemade blend of fruit, liqueurs, and spices, built on a gin base. It was designed for easy drinking in warm weather, and as commercial versions emerged, Pimm’s No. 1 became the most famous of them all.
While Pimm’s No. 1 remains the most widely known, several variations emerged over the years, each featuring a different alcohol base. Pimm’s No. 2 (scotch), No. 3 (brandy – known today as the Pimm’s Winter Cup), No. 4 (rum), No. 5 (rye whiskey), and No. 6 (vodka) all made brief appearances, but most were eventually discontinued. Today, the focus remains on Pimm’s No. 1, the original gin based liqueur that continues to define the cocktail.
Pimm’s Cup New Orleans
Few places outside Britain have embraced the British Pimm’s Cup recipe quite like New Orleans. And it’s easy to see why — a light, refreshing, fruity cocktail that holds up against the heat of the Big Easy? That’s a perfect match!
The drink found its way into the French Quarter’s bar scene, offering an easygoing alternative to the city’s boozier classics. It became especially popular at Napoleon House, a historic bar known for serving the New Orleans Pimm’s Cup with a signature twist — lemonade and 7UP instead of ginger ale.
It’s the kind of New Orleans staple that fits right in with the city’s laid-back vibe — light enough for a hot day, refreshing enough to keep you going, and easy enough to sip while wandering the Quarter.
Pimm’s Cup Ingredients
This classic British cocktail is built around Pimm’s No. 1 and a handful of fresh ingredients that bring out its crisp, citrusy character. While there’s plenty of room to get creative, these are the Pimm’s Cup commonly used ingredients that make up the classic version:
- PIMM’S NO. 1: Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin-based liqueur and the heart of the cocktail! It has a mix of bitter orange, herbal spices, and a subtle tea-like quality, making it more complex than standard gin.
- LEMONADE OR GINGER ALE: The mixer defines the drink’s overall taste. In England, lemonade is more like a lightly carbonated lemon-lime soda (similar to Sprite or 7UP), which keeps the cocktail bright and crisp. In the United States, fresh lemonade is sometimes used, but without the bubbles, it lacks the same refreshing quality. That’s why you’ll often see ginger ale or
- FRESH LEMON JUICE: A little splash makes a big difference. It cuts through the sweetness, brings out the bright citrus notes, and gives the drink just the right amount of tang to keep it refreshing.
- CUCUMBER SLICES: Non-negotiable! Cucumber is what makes a Pimm’s Cup taste like a Pimm’s Cup. It enhances the freshness of the drink and highlights the herbal botanicals of Pimm’s No. 1. Without it, the drink just doesn’t taste the same.
- CITRUS: Lemon and orange slices balance the sweetness of the mixer and add a little extra acidity to keep the drink lively.
- STRAWBERRIES: While optional, strawberries are a common Pimm’s Cup fruit and add a touch of natural sweetness. They also make the cocktail look even more inviting, which never hurts!
- FRESH MINT SPRIG: A classic finishing touch that adds an extra bit of freshness.
Recommended Bar Tools I Use & Love!
How to Make a Pimm’s Cup Cocktail
The recipe for Pimm’s Cup cocktail is easy to mix and follows a simple formula: Pimm’s No. 1, a fizzy mixer, plenty of ice, and an abundance of garnishes. Here’s how to make a traditional Pimm’s Cup the right way:
- Fill a tall glass (like a highball glass or Collins glass) with ice, adding slices of cucumber, lemon, orange, and strawberries as you go.
- Pour in Pimm’s No. 1 and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then top with a British version of lemonade, ginger ale, or spicy ginger beer (my personal preference).
- Stir gently to mix the flavors.
- Add extra garnishes if desired.
- Finish with a fresh mint sprig and serve immediately.
How to Make a Pitcher of Pimm’s Cup
Making a Pimm’s Cup pitcher is the simplest way to serve this refreshing cocktail to a group because the recipe scales up easily. Here’s how to put together a Pimm’s Cup for a crowd:
- In a large pitcher, combine 1 thinly sliced English cucumber, 1 sliced orange, 1 sliced lemon, and 1 cup of hulled and sliced strawberries.
- Pour in 2 cups of Pimm’s No. 1 and 4 cups of British-style lemonade (or swap in lemon soda, ginger ale, or ginger beer).
- Stir gently to combine.
- Toss in a handful of fresh mint leaves and let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can blend.
- When ready to serve, pour into individual glasses filled with ice, making sure each glass gets a mix of fresh fruit, cucumber, and mint. (Personally, I skip adding ice to the pitcher when making a large batch Pimm’s Cup because it waters down the drink too quickly!)
Can You Make a Pimm’s Cup Without Pimm’s?
Pimm’s No. 1 is what gives this cocktail its signature flavor, but if you don’t have a bottle of Pimm’s on hand or can’t find it at your local liquor stores, you can create a DIY version.
A close substitute can be made by mixing gin with sweet vermouth, herbal bitters (such as Angostura or orange bitters) or bitter orange peel, and a navel orange. This combination helps replicate the slightly bitter, spiced, and citrusy character of Pimm’s. While the flavor won’t be identical, it creates a well-balanced alternative for a homemade Pimm’s Cup.
Choosing the Right Pimm’s Cup Garnish
A classic Pimm’s Cup cocktail is as much about the garnishes as it is about the drink itself! They don’t just add color and make it look good — they bring out the flavors that make this cocktail so refreshing. Some are essential, while others let you get a little creative.
Cucumber is a must. It gives the drink its signature crispness and plays perfectly with the herbal notes of Pimms No. 1. Citrus is just as important for balance – lemon adds brightness, while orange brings a hint of natural sweetness. And a sprig of fresh mint ties it all together to make every sip feel extra refreshing.
Then there are the extras. Strawberries are a popular choice, especially in the summer when they’re at their best. Their sweetness and deep red color make the drink extra tasty and pretty! Other recipes include thin apple slices for a bit of crunch or a handful of seasonal fruits like raspberries or blackberries for another layer of fruitiness. And some recipes call for various herbs like basil and thyme in addition to or in place of the mint.
The key is not overdoing it. Too many garnishes can distract from the cocktail itself, so a Pimm’s Cup is best when it’s kept simple, refreshing, and easy to sip.
Is Pimm’s High in Alcohol?
A Pimm’s Cup No 1 is a low-ABV cocktail, usually falling between 5-7% alcohol by volume once mixed. That puts it on par with a glass of wine or a light beer, making it a great choice for daytime drinking or warm-weather gatherings. It’s refreshing, easy to sip, and won’t weigh you down on hot summer days like stronger cocktails.
What is a Non-Alcoholic Substitute for Pimm’s?
For a non-alcoholic Pimm’s Cup, a few simple swaps can create a drink with similar citrusy, herbal, and spiced notes.
Start with a base of black tea, which mimics the slightly bitter undertones of Pimm’s No. 1. Add a splash of orange juice and pomegranate juice for fruitiness, then mix in a dash of ginger ale and a few dashes of aromatic bitters (or a non-alcoholic bitters alternative) to round out the flavors.
Garnish as you would a classic Pimm’s Cup and serve over ice. The result is a Pimm’s Cup mocktail recipe that stays true to the original without the alcohol.
Pimm’s Cup Variations
The Pimm’s Cup original recipe is delicious as is, but this refreshing mixed drink is also incredibly easy to tweak for different seasons, occasions, or just for fun. A few ingredient swaps can take it from a crisp summer refresher to a cozy cold-weather cocktail or turn it into a party-ready punch. Here are some different variations of this low ABV cocktail that you can enjoy year-round:
- PIMM’S CUP WITH VODKA: A stronger take on the original. Replace half (or all) of the Pimm’s No. 1 with vodka, which gives the drink a drier, more spirit-forward edge.
- FALL PIMM’S CUP: A cozy twist using apple cider in place of lemonade and adding a cinnamon stick for warmth. The combination of Pimm’s herbal notes with apple and warming spices makes it perfect for cooler Autumn weather.
- WINTER PIMM’S CUP: This version leans into bolder flavors with ginger beer instead of sparkling lemonade and adds a splash of cranberry juice. Garnish with rosemary and pomegranate seeds for a drink that looks as festive as it tastes.
- FROZEN PIMM’S CUP: When it’s too hot to function, throw Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade, ice, and fresh strawberries into a blender. The result? A slushy, ice-cold take on the original Pimm’s Cup recipe, best enjoyed on a scorching summer day.
- PIMM’S ROYALE: An elegant upgrade to the classic Pimm’s Cup recipe. Swap the lemonade for Champagne or Prosecco, and suddenly it’s a cocktail fit for brunch, celebrations, or any time you feel like being fancy. You can also use sparkling water like San Pellegrino Limonata for a lighter version.
- HOLIDAY PIMM’S CUP: A winter-ready variation using spiced ginger ale, blood orange slices, and a few cloves or star anise. It’s got just enough depth to make it a great cold-weather cocktail without losing the easygoing appeal of a classic Pimm’s Cup.
- PIMM’S CUP PUNCH: A larger-format version that’s perfect for parties. Combine Pimm’s No. 1, British-style lemonade or ginger ale, and plenty of fresh fruit in a punch bowl. Add a few cucumber ribbons or cucumber spears and mint sprigs for extra freshness. Use large ice cubes or a frozen fruit ring instead of regular ice to keep it cold without watering it down.
Best Pimm’s Cup Recipe: The Wrap-Up
A Pimm’s No 1 Cup isn’t fussy, and that’s exactly what makes it great. Just a few simple ingredients, lots of fruit, and suddenly, you’ve got one of the most iconic refreshing cocktails in your hand!
This perfect Pimm’s Cup recipe is easygoing, endlessly adaptable, and always the right choice for a sunny afternoon. Stick with the classic or put your own spin on it – either way, it’s a drink that never goes out of style.
Did You Try This Traditional Pimm’s Cup Recipe?
If you gave this authentic Pimm’s Cup cocktail recipe a try, let me know how it turned out! Did you go the traditional route, or did you experiment with different mixers and garnishes? Drop a comment below and share your take on this classic cocktail recipe.
For more cocktail recipes and drink inspiration, make sure and sign up for the Parched Around the World newsletter to stay in the loop.
You can also follow Parched on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and don’t forget to tag us in your photos because I would love to see how you’re enjoying your Pimm’s Cup and other cocktail creations!
A writer and photographer, Allie Albanese is the founder and curator of Parched Around the World. Here she seeks to tell stories about the intersection of food, drinks, cultures, and traditions in places near and far.
As the Beverage Director and Bar Manager of a high-volume cocktail bar, Allie spent years honing her mixology skills and learning about the fascinating world of drinks. In the time since, she’s worked as a wine and cocktail consultant for both private and corporate clients, as well as a freelance journalist writing about cocktails, wine, food, and travel for various publications across the United States and abroad.
When mixing a drink for herself, you’ll likely find Allie with a fresh Gin Gimlet or a spicy Old Fashioned in hand!
Disclosure: Articles throughout Parched Around the World may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something using one of them, I may earn a small commission for sharing items I personally use and love. This comes at no cost to you, but it helps support Parched and allows me to keep this website running! For more information, please see my full Privacy Policy.
Pimm’s Cup Cocktail
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 Drink
Description
This Pimm’s Cup recipe is light, refreshing, and packed with fresh fruit and herbs. Made with Pimm’s No. 1, a fizzy mixer, and plenty of garnishes, it’s the perfect drink for warm afternoons, garden parties, or any occasion that calls for a crisp and easy sipper.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Pimm’s No. 1
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 4–5 oz English-style lemonade, ginger ale, or ginger beer
- 1–2 strawberries, sliced
- 2–3 lemon slices
- 2–3 orange slices
- 2–3 cucumber ribbons or slices
- Garnish: sprig of fresh mint
Instructions
- Add ice to a tall glass, layering in slices of cucumber, lemon, orange, and strawberries as you fill it.
- Pour in the Pimm’s No. 1 and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Top with British-style lemonade, ginger ale, or ginger beer, depending on your preference.
- Stir lightly to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 5
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stir
- Cuisine: Cocktails
Hi Friends, I’m Allie!
I’m an Italian-German-Southerner with a deep passion for food, drinks & travel. After 15 years in NYC as a Certified Sommelier & cocktail creator, plus a stint in New Zealand learning how to make wine, I’m now back home in Georgia where I blend my love for culinary arts & travel into my work as a writer & photographer. Thank you so much for joining me here at Parched where I look forward to exploring the world together one bite, sip & adventure at a time!
Get Parched!
Sign up to receive a fresh delivery of recipes, stories, and more delivered straight to your inbox.
I’ve always loved a Pimm’s Cup and your presentation of it is beautiful!
That is so kind of you to say, thank you very much! I think all the colors of the garnishes are so pretty, which makes this cocktail even more fun to drink. 😀
Great drink and awesome photos
Thank you, thank you! I sincerely appreciate it. Cheers!
One of my favorite drinks and you make it look even better!
That’s so nice of you to say, thank you! All the garnishes are so colorful that it makes the drink extra pretty!
Good drink recipe and great photos
Many thanks, I appreciate that! I love all the colors in the garnishes — it made it fun to photograph this drink!
Attractive drink. I just stumbled upon your blog and found I enjoy your blog posts. I’ll be subscribing to your newsletter and look forward to more recipes and stories.
Thank you so very much! I am grateful for your kind words and look forward to having you be a part of the Parched community. 🤍
I always thought this was a hard drink to make but you explained how easy it is
I’m so happy to hear that! Sometimes when I see a drink that looks complicated (fancy garnishes, etc.) I think the same thing, but often times the drink itself is super easy to make. Like this one!
This is the best.
It’s such a delicious drink, isn’t it?! I love how fruity it is and the fact that it’s low in alcohol is so great for the hot weather.
Thanks for another magnificent article.
What a nice thing to say, thank you!
WOW just what I was searching for!
Awesome! I’m happy you found the info you were looking for!
What’s up. It’s my first occasion commenting on your articles but wanted to say this is a good piece of writing.
Thanks for your nice comment, I truly appreciate it!
I like this refreshing drink …. It’s something different and refreshing.
I’m so glad you like it! It IS different and super refreshing. Plus, it’s like a drink and a snack in one! 😄
Amazing cocktail – thanks for sharing
Thank you so much, Ed! I sure wish we could be sipping one together in the Big Apple. I’d be your personal bartender if I still lived there. 😁
Top notch recipes Allie!
You are so sweet to say that, Lisa, thank you! I can’t wait for the day we get to make drinks for each other and enjoy a long chat and undoubtedly lots of laughs! I’m gonna go ahead and put in a request for one of your favorite Margaritas with either grapefruit or blood orange. Please and thank you. 😎
Way cool! Some really great info! I appreciate you writing this post and the rest of the site is extremely good.
Thanks a lot for the kind words, I truly appreciate it! I’m so glad you found your way to Parched and I hope you find more info you enjoy throughout the site. 🤍