Brewery and Distillery Tours in Ireland - Top Holiday Destinations - 232 views
There is much more to Irish brews than just Guinness, and as Ireland is known for being the drinking country of the world, it would be a crime to visit the country and not go on at least one brewery or distillery tour. There are dozens of breweries in Ireland that are happy to provide tours to tourists; below are just some of our favourites. Be sure to phone ahead and book your place on a tour in advance to avoid disappointment.
Arthur Guinness Son and Co.
Guinness is the most well-known beer that comes from Ireland so if you visit any brewery in the country make sure it is this one! Located in Dublin, the Guinness storehouse is open from 9.30am to 5pm, seven days a week. Your tour will begin in the world’s largest pint glass and in the huge Guinness memorabilia store. You will learn all about the brewing process and even be able to sample some freshly brewed Guinness if you wish. Prices vary from 14.40 euros for adults to 5 euros for children, and special tours can also be arranged for large parties.
Hilden Brewery
Located in between the cities of Belfast and Lisburn, the Hilden Brewery is the oldest independent brewery in Ireland. Visitors to the brewery will be given information about the brewery and taught about the Hilden brewing process. Tours last for approximately one hour and end in the tap room where samples of the Hilden beers can be enjoyed. The tours cost £4.50 per person and are available by appointment from 11.30am to 6.30pm on Tuesday through Saturday. The 19th century Hilden House restaurant can also be visited, and visitors can enjoy some world class cuisine.
Smithwicks
Smithwicks Brewery is located in Kilkenny and is the home of Smithwicks Ale. Said to be the oldest working brewery in Ireland (it dates back to 1231), tourists to the brewery can gain a true insight into the traditional Irish brewing process. Tours last for approximately ninety minutes and are available at 12pm, 1pm, 3pm and 3.30pm on Tuesday to Saturday, although you are highly advised to book in advance. Each tour costs 10 euros per person with a complimentary tasting session included. If you like pale ales, this is the tour for you!
Jameson’s Whiskey
Jameson’s is a world popular whiskey that comes from Ireland. There are two distilleries in the country that offer tours; with the main one being in Dublin. Open seven days a week, tours around the Jameson’s distillery are led by expert guides who will speak to you about the history of the company and guide you through the recreated distillery. Tours come complete with a complimentary glass of Jameson’s (plus a mixer if required) and there is even a chance for visitors to become a “qualified whiskey taster”. Tours end in the gift shop and the restaurant where a delicious lunch can be enjoyed, and gifts can be bought for friends and family members. Tours are available seven days a week at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm with prices ranging from 11.70 euros for adults to 9.60 euros for senior citizens and 7.70 euros for children.
If you are heading to Ireland on your holidays, make sure you book into a great hotel for your stay. There are a variety of Newry hotels available, that are sure to suit any budget.
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