Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is increasingly performed due to favourable perioperative outcomes. Nevertheless, data on the development of LDP on a nationwide level is lacking. This study investigated the development and learning curve of LDP in the United Kingdom (UK). Methods: A retrospective study of patients undergoing LDP from 2006 to 2016 in eleven tertiary referral centres in the UK was performed. Development of indication and perioperative outcome was examined by differences in trends over time periods (2006-2009, 2010-2013, 2014-2016). For learning curve analysis, the first 15 LDP cases performed of each centre were combined and compared to the subsequent cases. Results: In total, 570 LDP's were included. Median operating time was 240 min (IQR 182-300) with a median blood loss 200 mL (IQR 100-350). The conversion rate to open distal pancreatectomy was 12%) (n = 69). Majority of tumours were neuro-endocrine tumours (n = 152 [27%]), mucinous cystic neoplasm (n = 112 [20%]) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (n = 86 [15%]). Concomitant splenectomy was performed for 385 (68%) cases. Complications occurred in 49% (n = 276) of patients. The incidence of Pancreatic Fistula grade (POPF) B/C was 15% (n = 87). 26 (5%) patients required a reoperation. 90-day mortality occurred in 8 (1,4%). Total length of hospital stay was 6 days (IQR 5 to 8 days). LDP gained popularity over time and was more frequently used for PDAC [7% (n = 5) vs 19% (n = 47); P = 0.005]. Learning curve analysis showed improvement of estimated blood loss, rate of blood transfusions, complication rate (including POPF) and length of stay after the first 30 patients. Conclusion: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy is increasingly considered as a useful technique for lesions of the distal pancreas, included PDAC. Clear improvements of perioperative outcomes were found with expanding experience in LPD.