The Ultimate Guide to Distilleries In Ireland

If you love a good dram and you find yourself on the Emerald Isle, you’re in for a real treat. Ireland is packed with distilleries that not only produce world-class whiskey, gin, and other spirits, but also serve up rich history, gorgeous countryside views, and some seriously fun tours. 

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or just along for the experience (and maybe a few samples), here are ten incredible distilleries worth adding to your itinerary.

Jameson Distillery Bow St. (Dublin)

Let’s kick things off right in the heart of Dublin at the iconic Jameson Distillery on Bow Street. This is where it all began back in 1780, when John Jameson set up shop and started crafting what would become one of the most famous whiskeys in the world. Although production has since moved to Midleton, this historic site has been beautifully transformed into a visitor experience.

You can expect an interactive, sensory-rich tour with enthusiastic guides who really bring the story of Jameson to life. There’s also a comparative whiskey tasting, a cocktail-making class, and the chance to blend your own whiskey. Post-tour, their on-site bar is a great place to linger a little while longer.

Midleton Distillery (County Cork)

Speaking of Jameson, if you want to see where it’s made today, head down to Midleton in County Cork. The Midleton Distillery is home not only to Jameson, but also to other big names like Powers and Redbreast. This sprawling site has been producing whiskey since the 19th century and combines old-school charm with modern innovation.

Here, the tours dive deeply into the process, and you’ll get to see everything from giant copper pot stills to aging casks tucked away in dark, aromatic warehouses. The behind-the-scenes Distiller’s Apprentice experience is a lot of fun if you want something more hands-on.

County Cork is a great place to visit, overall. In fact, it’s been named one of the best places to visit by National Geographic. Here’s more on what to see and do in the Rebel County. 

Bushmills Distillery (County Antrim)

Up in Northern Ireland, Bushmills Distillery is an absolute must. It proudly holds the title of the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, with a license dating all the way back to 1608. That’s over 400 years of whiskey-making history in one charming little village.

The tour takes you through their working distillery, giving you a peek into every step of the process. Then, it finishes, of course, with a generous tasting in their cozy bar. The town of Bushmills itself is also super cute, and you’re just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, one of the 12 sights you can’t miss in Northern Ireland. 

Teeling Distillery (Dublin)

Teeling is part of the new wave of Irish whiskey makers, but it’s deeply rooted in family tradition. The Teeling family has been involved in whiskey for generations and, in 2015, they opened the first new distillery in Dublin in over 125 years. It’s modern, lively, and right in the trendy Liberties neighborhood.

The tours here are relaxed and engaging, with a real focus on innovation and craft. You’ll get to try some bold, creative expressions that you won’t find anywhere else, and their cocktail bar is to die for. If you like your whiskey with a side of eccentricity, this is your spot.