Discover the Best Irish Whiskey Distilleries with iBestTravel

Move over Scotch, Irish whiskey is re-emerging from the doldrums as one of the fastest-growing spirits in the world. While the 20th century heralded the end of whiskey’s golden age, a modern audience is now enjoying the bespoke flavors offered by boutique brands. New distilleries are welcoming guests, while older makers are improving their facilities.

In Dublin, the Old Jameson Distillery has reopened its doors after an expensive makeover, while Diageo is brewing up a new visitor experience in its old Guinness power plant. Even boxing legend Conor McGregor is muscling in on the action with the anticipated launch of his own brand, aptly labeled ‘Notorious’.

Budding aficionados can sample the smooth spirit known as whiskey (or uisce beatha – the water of life) by monks in the early Middle Ages by visiting these 11 unmissable Irish distilleries and bars.

Teelings Distillery, Newmarket, Merchants Quay, Dublin

Teeling’s, Dublin’s first new distillery in over 125 years, is located near Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. Opened in 2015, their whiskey is still maturing (it takes a minimum of 3 years and a day to distill Irish whiskey), but you can enjoy a tour and taste other Teeling’s products.

While you’re there

Indulge your interest in whiskey at the Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street.

Jameson Distillery, Bow Street, Smithsfield, Dublin

Spend 40 minutes catching up on 238 years of whiskey history at the Jameson Distillery’s plush visitor experience on Bow Street. The whiskey ambassadors share first-hand experiences of the industry’s peaks and troughs while discussing growth and interesting anecdotes. Afterward, head to JJ’s Place on the mezzanine floor for a complimentary drink.

While you’re there

Walk 10 minutes to The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub, where many historical figures enjoyed a whiskey.

Slane Distillery, County Meath

It’s Slane on the rocks at the legendary castle’s stables-cum-bar-conversion. Given the estate’s fondness for big-name outdoor concerts, the whiskey tour includes rock anecdotes from the Rolling Stones to U2. The tour guide shares encyclopedic knowledge of the distilling process, from malt sourcing to the flavors of their triple cask whiskey.

While you’re there

Don’t miss Newgrange, a 5000-year-old passage tomb.

The Connacht Whiskey Company, Ballina, County Mayo

Located near the banks of the River Moy, the Connacht Distillery features a clean operation. Although the Connacht Whiskey brand is still in the fermenting stage, the tour experience is genuine. Poitín, a spirit traditionally distilled in a small pot, is available, along with the distillery’s Straw Boys branded gin.

While you’re there

Charming Killala offers a chance to catch up on Irish history by exploring its role in the 1798 rebellion.

Kilbeggan (Locke’s) Distillery, Kilbeggan, County Westmeath

Kilbeggan Distillery has a colorful history since its water wheel first turned 260 years ago. This fully operating distillery produces a malt blend for various brands, with the aroma of biscuits wafting through the open courtyard and timber nooks.

While you’re there

Visit Ireland’s oldest pub, Sean’s Bar in Athlone, for a quick detour.

Dingle Distillery, County Kerry

The blue corrugated exterior of Dingle Distillery stands strong in its beautiful, windswept location. With two casks produced daily, the focus is on quality instead of quantity. At the tasting, expect to find Dingle Gin and Vodka rather than a dram of whiskey.

While you’re there

Quickly reach the Unesco World Heritage Site and Star Wars backdrop Skellig Michael, weather permitting.

Tullamore Dew, County Offaly

The Tullamore Dew production takes place in a high-security plant outside Tullamore, while the visitor center in the heart of town features interesting facts and interactive displays. The tour captures a real distillery feel, from simulated coal burning to the discussion over casks at the tasting session.

While you’re there

Admire the giant telescope (once the largest in the world) at Birr Demesne.

Walsh Distillery, County Carlow

The new Walsh Distillery boasts a 650,000 annual bottle capacity. The tour encourages visitors to engage with the three steps in the distilling process. Despite its modern design, the distillation process remains manually controlled. The Irishman Founders Reserve concludes the tour of this rolling farmland estate.

While you’re there

Explore the atmospheric Carlow County Museum for insights into local history.

O’Loclainn’s Irish Whiskey Bar, Ballyvaughan, County Clare

A bastion of whiskey for over 80 years, O’Loclainn’s Bar is a must-visit along the Wild Atlantic Way. This third-generation family bar preserved the spirit during the industry’s decline and now offers one of the finest collections in Ireland with over 300 bottles. Green Spot Single Pot Still is the bar’s signature whiskey, alongside rare blends.

While you’re there

Visit the romantic ruins of Corcomroe Abbey and enjoy chocolate at Hazel Mountain.

The Dylan Whisky Bar, Kilkenny City

Victorian-style Dylan Whisky Bar on John Street is relatively new yet boasts a vast collection of whiskey brands. For €20, you can sample a single malt, their brand of the month, and a third whiskey from around 200 options, with informed staff ready to assist you. The pub’s name pays homage to Bob Dylan, evident in the memorabilia adorning the walls.

While you’re there

Explore Kilkenny, including the new Medieval Mile Museum, a great addition to the city’s sights.

Bushmills, Antrim

King James I granted the Old Bushmills Distillery its license in 1608, making it the oldest on the planet. Along with a long history comes a great value-for-money tour (just £8), providing insights into the whiskey-making process. Note that photos are not allowed during the tour. The 12-year single malt is the highlight of the tasting, unique to on-site visitors.

While you’re there

Visit the coastal perched Dunluce Castle, just a short drive from the distillery to witness the ruins.