You can’t visit Dublin without noticing that the Old Jameson Distillery or the Guinness Storehouse, both set in the heart of the city, are two of the main attractions for tourists.
Not sure if you should visit Jameson Distillery or Guinness Storehouse? Or both?
To help you decide, I visited both, and this is how I got on.
Old Jameson Distillery
Here you can relive the John Jameson and Sons’ journey through the decades to create the whiskey which Ireland is famous for.
The attraction is set in the site of the original distillery which was founded in 1780. The current distillery is now located in Cork where there’s more room for expansion and closer to the barley farmers.
Jameson Distillery is a guided tour which runs approx every 30 minutes. At busy times its worth booking in advance (or getting a Dublin Pass which gives you fast track entry into several attractions). As you step into the foyer you are greeted by an impressive bar and chandeliers made from Jameson bottles.
The tour takes you through the long process (usually between 3-7 years) to create a bottle of Jameson Whiskey. Although I’m not a massive whiskey drinker, the tour was really interesting. You learn about all the different things which can impact on the flavour, the process of triple distilling, the barrels used etc.
The tour even includes a tasting session where you sample three whiskies, Jameson, a best-selling American whisky and a best-selling Scottish whiskey. The guide talks you through the different flavours and the fact that the Jameson has a ‘smoother’ taste thanks to being triple distilled. There’s also an opportunity to get your own Whiskey Tasting Certificate.
The tour finishes with a complimentary drink of either neat whiskey or a Jameson cocktail.
Of course, you can always get a memento of your experience at the gift shop which has all the usual souvenirs such as glassware, t-shirts etc as well as some premium bottles of Jameson. The 12 year Jameson Distillery Reserve can only be purchased at the distillery and you can also get it personalised.
Guinness Storehouse
On my second day in Dublin I was raring to go. Once I’d had breakfast there was only one obvious choice to start the day’s activities – the Guinness Storehouse!
A short walk from the centre of the city, the Storehouse is situated amongst cobbled streets and old brick buildings and horse drawn carriages await outside. The attraction can be busy, particularly during holidays and weekends so I’d recommend going early or getting a Dublin Pass which gets you fast track entry. The standard entrance fee including one complimentary pint of Guinness is 18EUR.
The interior of the Storehouse is particularly spectacular. They’ve kept the essence of its past but have brought it to life with the visuals and interactive displays.
The tour begins with an introduction to the four natural ingredients which are used to create Guinness. Probably the most striking thing you’ll notice when you walk in is the cascading waterfall in the middle of the room which represents the addition of water to the barley and hops.
Continue up to the next floor of the Storehouse and you’ll be taken through the brewing process. The barley is malted, roasted, milled, mixed with hot water and mashed. The mixture is then filtered off and boiled with hops. Then yeast is added and fermentation begins. As you progress through the tour it really makes you think about how much work goes into a pint of the black stuff!
Of course, the only way to truly appreciate a pint of Guinness is to taste it. Not only that, but taste it properly. Luckily the experts are on hand to show you the correct way. First you are led into a pure white room and handed a miniature glass of Guinness (the same size as professional tasters use). The guide will teach you how to taste the drink so you get the most out of the flavour and aroma.
As you make your way to the next floor up you can re-live all the iconic Guinness adverts. Guinness IS good for you.
If you fancy yourself as a bit of an aspiring bartender then head up to the Guinness Academy where you can learn the six-step process to pouring your own pint (which you get to drink of course).
However, if you prefer to have your Guinness served to you then worry not. Gravity Bar on the top floor offers amazing views of the city and is a great place to enjoy your complimentary pint.
Of course, your trip wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the extensive gift shop which has every kind of Guinness souvenir you could ever hope for. I opted for some Guinness flavored chocolate but probably could have bought the whole shop.
Are They Worth Visiting?
Even if you’re not a massive beer lover or aren’t keen on the tourist traps, I would still recommend giving the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse a go. The inside of the buildings alone are definitely worth seeing, but it also gives you an insight into the brewing process. All in all, a worthwhile visit!
View more recommendations with my Ireland travel tips.
