Peter Spanton: From Karate Mastery to Beverage Empire – The Inspiring Journey of a British Icon
In the ever-evolving landscape of British entrepreneurship, few individuals embody versatility and resilience quite like Peter Spanton. Known widely today for his innovative drinks brand, Spanton’s legacy stretches far beyond the glossy labels of tonic bottles. From earning his black belt in Wado-ryu karate to running one of London’s most distinctive bar-restaurants and launching a successful beverage business, Peter’s journey is one of passion, reinvention, and understated brilliance.
Early Life and Karate Beginnings
Peter Spanton’s story begins in London in the mid-20th century. Born in January 1955, Peter came of age during a time when Eastern martial arts were just beginning to find a foothold in the UK. Fascinated by the philosophy, discipline, and aesthetic of Japanese combat techniques, he gravitated towards Wado-ryu karate, a style that blends traditional Okinawan karate with jujutsu.
In 1965, Peter enrolled at the Clapham Honbu Dojo under the renowned Tatsuo Suzuki, one of the earliest Japanese masters to bring karate to the West. This marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to martial arts. By December 1966, Peter had achieved the rank of 1st dan black belt – one of the youngest and earliest British practitioners to do so. His proficiency in kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) would eventually earn him recognition at both national and international levels.
Founding Higashi Karate Kai
In 1972, Peter founded Higashi Karate Kai, a school that would go on to become one of the UK’s most respected centres for martial arts training. Higashi stood out for its technical excellence and strong sense of community. Spanton’s leadership was marked by a commitment to tradition balanced with an open-minded approach to teaching. His students not only learned to fight but also to understand the moral and spiritual tenets that underpin karate-do.
Throughout his career, Peter served as a senior judge in major karate competitions, both in kata and kumite, eventually attaining the distinguished rank of 9th dan. His influence helped to elevate British karate, contributing to the country’s international recognition in martial arts circles.
The Vic Naylor’s Era: Reinventing London’s Social Scene
While karate might have laid the groundwork for Spanton’s discipline and values, it was in the hospitality sector that he found another outlet for his creativity. In the 1980s, Peter took over Vic Naylor’s, a bar and restaurant nestled in the heart of Clerkenwell. At the time, London’s food and drink scene was undergoing a transformation, and Peter was at the forefront of this movement.
Vic Naylor’s was not just another pub. Under Peter’s stewardship, it became a cultural institution – an eclectic mix of bar, bistro, and social salon. It was frequented by artists, journalists, musicians, and free thinkers. The venue’s charm lay in its unapologetically unpolished aesthetic and its vibrant energy. Peter’s hands-on style and sharp eye for detail helped the bar become one of London’s best-kept secrets for more than two decades.
Launching Peter Spanton Drinks
After years of managing Vic Naylor’s, Peter noticed a recurring issue in the world of mixers – they lacked sophistication. While premium spirits had surged in popularity, the same couldn’t be said for their non-alcoholic counterparts. Realising there was a gap in the market, Peter pivoted his attention towards beverage innovation.
In 2011, he launched Peter Spanton Drinks, a brand that quickly earned praise for its distinct range of tonics and sodas. These weren’t your run-of-the-mill mixers. Spanton’s recipes combined exotic botanicals, elegant flavour pairings, and a refined palate to offer something truly unique.
The now-iconic Cardamom Tonic No. 9 stood out as a perfect companion to gin, while flavours like Salted Paloma Grapefruit Soda and No. 5 Lemongrass Tonic brought a bold and modern twist to traditional mixers. Each product was designed not just to complement spirits but also to stand on its own as a refreshing soft drink.
His branding was equally sharp – sleek, minimalist, and sophisticated – appealing to a new generation of discerning drinkers. With his finger on the pulse of both style and substance, Peter Spanton carved out a niche in the upscale drinks market.
A Quietly Powerful Brand
What makes Peter Spanton Drinks truly stand apart is its refusal to follow trends. Instead of flooding the market with countless variations or gimmicks, the brand focused on quality, refinement, and selective distribution. It quickly became a staple in high-end bars, boutique hotels, and curated online platforms.
The brand’s tone is elegant but accessible – much like the man himself. There’s no aggressive marketing, no flash. Just consistent, top-quality mixers that reflect the sophistication of their creator. It’s a brand that lets its product speak louder than its packaging, relying on word-of-mouth and loyal repeat customers to grow organically.
Relationship with Janet Street-Porter
Away from his public ventures, Peter Spanton has shared a long-term relationship with one of Britain’s most recognisable media figures – Janet Street-Porter. The pair have been together since 1999, maintaining a relationship that is notably private, especially considering Janet’s high-profile presence on television and in journalism.
Though not married, their bond has endured over two decades, a rarity in the world of celebrity relationships. Janet has occasionally spoken about Peter in interviews, describing him as grounded, thoughtful, and uninterested in the limelight. Their partnership appears to be rooted in mutual respect, personal space, and a shared appreciation for life’s less chaotic corners.
Together, they represent an ideal of mature companionship – one not built on spectacle, but on authenticity.
Keeping a Low Profile
Despite his achievements, Peter Spanton has remained remarkably under the radar. Unlike many modern entrepreneurs who build their success through personal branding and social media, Peter has allowed his work to take centre stage. His quiet determination and sharp instincts have earned him admiration across multiple industries, yet he’s never been one to seek attention.
This humility is perhaps best illustrated in his interview style. When discussing his journey, he often deflects praise, instead focusing on the people he’s worked with, the lessons he’s learned, and the value of perseverance. It’s an ethos that aligns perfectly with his background in martial arts – mastery without ego.
Legacy and Influence
Peter Spanton’s influence spans far beyond his own enterprises. As a karate master, he helped nurture generations of students, embedding not just fighting skills but a philosophy of balance, discipline, and humility. As a restaurateur, he contributed to shaping London’s hospitality culture in a time of great change. And as a beverage innovator, he offered a new perspective on what mixers could and should be.
His story is one of constant evolution – from dojo to drinks, from sparring mats to stylish mixers. It’s a reminder that the most meaningful careers are rarely linear. Instead, they are woven through passion, observation, and the courage to embrace new opportunities.
Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Peter Spanton
Peter Spanton exemplifies a rare kind of British entrepreneur – one who combines artistry with precision, ambition with modesty, and tradition with innovation. Whether you know him as a martial arts pioneer, the man behind Vic Naylor’s, or the force behind one of the UK’s most elegant drinks brands, his impact is undeniable.
