guinness brewery dublin tour times

The Guinness Storehouse In Dublin: Which Tour Is Best + The Story Of St. James’s Gate

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: August 13, 2024

Located at St James’s Gate, the Guinness Storehouse sits on the site where Arthur Guinness famously agreed a 9,000-year lease in 1759.

For many tourists spending one day in Dublin or a weekend in Dublin , a visit to the Guinness Factory is at the top of their to-do list, and for good reason.

Those who embark on a Guinness Brewery tour ( book it here ) are immersed in the brand’s history, the stout’s creation process, and, of course, enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar.

Table of Contents

Some quick information about the Guinness Storehouse

Although the Guinness tour is fairly straightforward, there are a few need-to-knows that’ll make your visit that bit more enjoyable.

Note: if you book a tour through a link below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Location

The Guinness factory is located slightly off Dublin’s south quays at St. Jame’s Gate. It’s a 15-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Cathedral , a 20-minute walk from Kilmainham Gaol and  very  short walk from some of the best whiskey distilleries in Dublin .

2. How to get there from Dublin City Centre

Getting around Dublin is handy once you know how. You have 5 options to get from the city centre to the Guinness Storehouse:

• Walk (40 minutes): From O’Connell St
• Public Bus (15 minutes): Get the 123 from Dame St or O’Connell St in direction of Walkinstown and get off at James’s Street
• Hop on/off Bus: If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, the hop on/off bus goes to the Storehouse
• LUAS (15 minutes): Take the Red Line in the direction of Tallaght
• Taxi/Uber (25 minutes):  A taxi or one of the ride share apps will cost around €15

3. Book online to avoid the queues

While you can buy tickets at the door, you’re better off buying online in advance. The reason for this is:

• The time slots may be full when you arrive
• You’ll avoid the often lengthy queues 

So, there’s some very limited free parking at the Guinness Storehouse on Crane Street, ( see it here  on Google Maps). There’s paid parking near the Four Courts here (15-minute walk away).

5. Part of the Dublin Pass

Exploring Dublin over 1 or 2 days? If you buy a Dublin Pass for €70 you can save from €23.50 to €62.50 on Dublin’s top attractions, like the EPIC Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, The GPO, the Jameson Distillery Bow St. and more.

Which Guinness tour is best?

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

When it comes to booking the Guinness tour in Dublin, you’ll have several different choices, each of which has pros and cons.

I have done each of the tours below in recent years, so the opinions below are based on my personal experience.

1. Guinness Storehouse Experience

Photos by The Irish Road Trip

The 1.5-hour Guinness Factory tour is the most popular tour amongst those that visit this website and I’d argue it’s the one that  most  people should go for.

It’s a self-guided tour that allows you to explore at your own pace and soak up the sights and sounds of the factory and its exhibitions.

It finishes in the Gravity Bar where you can enjoy a pint with a view over Dublin.

2. The Stoutie

This variation is the exact same as the first except that, for an additional €8, you get a pint with your selfie on it.

It’s a hefty charge to pay to see your face on a pint, but it’s a nice novelty for those looking for a unique memento.

3. The Connoisseur Experience (€95)

Those that take the 1.5-hour Connoisseur Experience will embark on a guided tasting journey with a Guinness Connoisseur, exploring the flavours and stories of four popular Guinness variants.

You’ll enjoy a private bar experience, learn to craft your own pint, and explore all seven floors of the Guinness Storehouse.

If you’re looking for a guided tour with a difference, this is worth considering.

4. The Guinness Academy

The Guinness Academy Experience is a self-guided tour that includes a short lesson on how to pour the perfect pint, costing an additional €12.

While I personally don’t think that it’s worth the extra cost, it might be enjoyable for avid Guinness fans looking to enhance their visit.

5. The Jameson + Guinness factory tour combo

Courtesy Jameson Distillery Bow St, Dublin

Now, the final tour will suit those of you that plan on also visiting the Jameson Distillery on Bow St .

This is a combo, skip-the-line ticket that includes both attractions. It costs around €112 , and it includes the best of both tours.

The History of the Guinness Brewery in Dublin

Photos in the Public Domain

When you visit the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, you’re treading on hallowed ground! It was the original site where Arthur Guinness began his brewery business in 1759.

Planning for the future, he signed a 9,000-year lease at £45 per annum and started brewing his dark porter-style ales.

He used dark malt to create his stout, which was instantly a favourite with river and street porters, among other local workers.

Then things escalated

10 years later, he decided to begin exporting, shipping a modest 6.5 barrels to England, and the rest, as they say, is history.

By 1886, Guinness sales reached 1.13 million barrels a year, and the company was floated on the stock market.

That was in spite of the fact that Guinness owned no bars or pubs and refused to advertise (this changed drastically over time). The product spoke for itself.

The decline and joining up with Diageo

In the 1970s, Guinness sales had declined, so the owners had to relaunch it and introduce pale malt.

The company merged with Diageo in 1997 but retained the Guinness brand’s rights and trademarked the Irish harp logo.

Now, in 2024, Guinness is a roaring success both at home and overseas, with the factory firmly establishing itself as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland .

However, not all pints are equal – see my guide to finding the best Guinness in Dublin for more.

Things you’ll see on the Guinness Factory tour

Courtesy Diageo Ireland Brand Homes via Ireland’s Content Pool

There’s plenty to see on the Guinness tour in Dublin, regardless of which tour you take.

Behind those sturdy black gates, the Guinness Storehouse offers a memorable and educational experience that any ale drinker or Guinness aficionado will remember for years to come.

1. The brewing process

Stroll through the historic Guinness Brewery, see the hops and learn about the specialist strains of yeast used in this unique brewing process.

See the rushing waters that are a vital part of the Guinness brewing process.

2. Fittings from the original brewery

Photo via the Guinness Storehouse

You’ll often see the Guinness Factory mentioned in guides to the best museums in Dublin . This puzzles some, but it is a museum of sorts.

The Storehouse is home to fixtures from the Guinness Brewery’s original days. Interestingly enough, some of these are from over 250 years ago.

3. Old-school Guinness ads

Photo by The Irish Road Trip

Immerse yourself in 80 years of Guinness advertising – you’ll be surprised at some of the memories it brings back!

Interact with the ads and take photos that put you in your very own Guinness ad.

4. The journey to greatness

Track the four key ingredients that go into every pint of Guinness in Ireland’s #1 tourist attraction.

Once the brew is completed, learn about the coopers and the epic sea voyages that led to Guinness becoming an international brand in 150 countries.

Things to do near the Guinness Storehouse

There are endless things to do near the Guinness Storehouse – in fact, many of the best things to do in Dublin are a short walk away!

Here are some of my go-tos:

• Whiskey distilleries (3 to 6-minute walk): Some of the top whiskey distilleries in Ireland are a short walk away. Roe and Co (6-minutes), Pearse Lyons (5-minutes) and the Teeling distillery (15-minutes)
• Dublin’s Oldest pub (10-minute walk): The reigning champion of ancient pubs in Dublin is the Brazen Head which dates to 1198. See my guide to the oldest pubs in Dublin for more
• Phoenix Park (15-minute walk): Dominated by the 200ft tall Wellington Monument, the Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed public parks in any capital city in Europe
• Kilmainham Gaol (20-minute walk): Infamous for being the site of incarceration for many Nationalist leaders, Kilmainham Gaol is one of the city’s top attractions

I’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Is it worth the money?’ to ‘How long is it?’.

In the section below, I’ve popped in the most FAQs. If you have a question that I haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Can you buy Guinness Storehouse tickets at the door?

Yes, you can. However, it’s strongly recommended that you buy tickets in advance online. This way, you can 1, reserve a time slot, 2, avoid disappointment if the time slots are full, and 3, skip the queues at the door.

How long is the Guinness Storehouse tour?

This will depend on the type of tour you take. Allow at least 1.5 hours for the self-guided tour and 2 if you take the premium Guinness tour in Dublin.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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• Connoisseur Experience (+18)

SELECT YOUR DATE [Connoisseur Experience (+18)] - Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse Indoor Guinness Storehouse

Self Guided + Connoisseur Experience - Connoisseur Experience (+18)

Guided visit

• Enjoy a self-guided tour & our exclusive Connoisseur Experience, finishing with a pint of Guinness or soft drink in the Gravity bar.
• Please note - this experience is only available in English.

Trade customers

• We advise booking a guided tour alongside this experience to ensure your group keep to their time and do not miss their Connoisseur Experience starting. Our guided tours are timed to commence one hour prior to the Connoisseur Experience and are bookable at the next booking stage.
• The Connoisseur Experience has a strict latecomers policy. Please ensure your guests arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the experience starting. We advise guests to arrive 90 minutes prior to the experience and complete the self-guided tour in advance.
• If you wish to book a guided tour please book a time slot of 11am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:45pm and the option to add a guide will be available in the next booking stage. These are the set times for guided tours to commence.
• The guided tour lasts approximately 60 minutes and the Connoisseur Experience lasts approximately 1hr 15 mins. The guest will then be free to go to Gravity for their final pint. In total, this experience will last approximately 2h 30min.
• Please contact the Reservations Team to arrange an exclusive Buy Out Connoisseur Experience.

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Guinness Storehouse

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Make your way through the Guinness Storehouse gates located in the heart of St James’s Gate, in Dublin City. Explore seven floors of the Guinness Storehouse building, which was once the fermentation plant of the brewery. Discover more about the ingredients, history and culture that tell the Guinness story before taking in the 360 degree views of Dublin City from one of Dublin's highest vantage points, at the Gravity Bar. To your right, you will see the Wicklow Mountains, where Guinness sources its fresh Irish water for brewing. To the left, you will see the Phoenix Park and the Wellington Monument.

Visitors to the Guinness Storehouse can also experience the Guinness STOUTie, a pint of Guinness with your own selfie printed onto the head. Visit the Guinness Academy where you will learn how to pour your own pint of Guinness. Follow the legendary six step ritual, counting the 119.5 seconds it takes to pour a perfect pint of Guinness. Witness the surge and eventual settle and take home a certificate to show you were here.

If you would like a more private tour, the Connoisseur Experience is a journey through the tastes, smells and the story of Guinness. Here you will sample four of the most popular beers that have ever been brewed at Guinness while your guide talks you through all there is to know about each beer. Discover the origins of famous Guinness beers and gain an understanding into the craft and connection behind one of the most iconic brands in the world.

The Guinness Storehouse is also home to Arthur’s Bar and 1837 Bar & Brasserie, both offering delicious food options to perfectly pair with your pint of Guinness. From oysters to Guinness stew or a classic beef burger, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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Dublin's Guinness Storehouse: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto 

Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is officially the most popular attraction in Dublin. The old brewery started as a spot for humble beer-making in 1759, and has since been transformed into an educational museum. The Guinness Storehouse now offers seven floors of exhibits dedicated to the 250 years of history of the world’s most famous stout. The beer-centric exhibit is one of the top things to do in Dublin , but this complete guide to the Guinness Storehouse will prepare you to make the most of the experience.

When Arthur Guinness first began brewing ales, he based his operations in County Kildare. However, in 1759, he decided to expand and move the brewery to Dublin. The Guinness founder received an amazing deal on the St. James's Gate property: He agreed to pay a mere £45 (about $26) annually for the four acres of real estate, and he signed a 9,000-year lease.

Within 10 years, the beer maker was exporting his stout in small quantities, and the demand for Guinness soared from there. As exports grew, the Guinness family continued to expand the brewery; they eventually came to own 64 acres of land in Dublin city, where they built offices, staff houses, and all things needed for beer making, including vats and grain silos.

The building that houses the Guinness Storehouse itself was once the area where yeast was added to the brew in order to start fermentation. The building was constructed in 1904, and was converted into a museum and tasting experience in 2000.

How to Get There

The Guinness Storehouse is located at St. James's Gate, Dublin. Most people arrive on foot because it's located near the city center. 

In terms of public transportation, it’s easiest to take the red line on the LUAS to the James’s stop.

From O’Connell street, you can also take the 13, 40, or 123 bus. Exit at the James’s St. stop and look for the brewery signs. 

If you are driving, there is parking available on Crane Street—but keep in mind that driving in Dublin comes with its own challenges. Taxis are very familiar with the Guinness Storehouse and can be found at official ranks throughout the city. They will drop you directly at the entrance. 

What to See and Do

While there is still an experimental brewery on site, the small amount of beer produced here is not the main draw. The Guinness Storehouse is really a museum dedicated to the world-famous Irish stout. The museum is divided across seven floors, culminating in a rooftop bar that overlooks the city. The price of an adult ticket includes a beer token, which you can trade in for a free pint of Guinness at the end of your visit.

On the ground floor: You’ll find a huge waterfall and the Arthur Guinness Gallery. The museum overlooks an atrium that is designed to look like a pint of Guinness. If it were a real glass, it would hold 14.3 million pints of beer. This is where you will find a copy of the 9,000-year lease that Arthur Guinness signed to build his brewery here.

On the first floor: Head here to learn about the beer-making process. The exhibit covers everything from how casks (containers for storing beer) are made through to the transportation of the final product.

On the second floor: Here, you'll find the Tasting Experience, where you can learn to identify the aromas in Guinness and sample a very small taste of the beer.

On the third floor: This is one of the most popular floors because it is dedicated to creative Guinness advertisements that have been promoted over the years.

On the fourth floor: While you can absolutely enjoy the perfect pint served by a skilled barman in the bar on the top floor, one of the best things to do at the Storehouse is to learn how to pull your own pint at the Guinness Academy on the fourth floor. There’s an art to pouring a pint of Guinness, so cash in your beer token here to take a try at the supervised taps. An instructor will lead you through the steps, and you can then carry your beer to the bar.

On the top floor: There are no exhibits in the top-floor Gravity Bar, but it quickly becomes everyone’s favorite room. This is where you can drink your free pint (and purchase extra drinks as desired)—but the best thing to do is snag a seat by the window for 360-degree views of the city. The Guinness Storehouse is one of the tallest buildings in Dublin, which means that the bar offers a stunning vantage point from which to admire the Irish capital. Information on the glass windows will help you identify which part of the city you are looking at.

There are plenty of choices for food at the Guinness Storehouse, as well. The Brewer’s Dining Hall serves a traditional Irish menu, while the Cooperage Café has lighter fare like coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. No reservations are required to eat inside, but you must have purchased Storehouse tickets to reach the various restaurants and bars. 

The experimental Guinness taproom at St. James's Gate is closed to the public most days. However, you can visit on Thursday and Friday afternoons (starting at 4:30 p.m.), or after 2 p.m. on Saturday. Visits and tastings require you to first purchase tickets to the Storehouse and then make your way to the taproom. These events are only open to guests over the age of 18.

Special events are sometimes organized to celebrate the founder (Arthur Guinness in September) or to support emerging Irish artists. For a full calendar of events open to the public, check the online calendar.

Tips for Visiting

• The former brewery receives around a million visitors a year, so it is always a good idea to book your tickets online in order to skip the line. Another reason to buy tickets in advance? The price of the Storehouse visit is discounted up to 25 percent when you purchase through the website. 
• If you want to get away from the general crowd, you can book a Connoisseur Experience and be guided through tastings at a private bar.
• The museum experience is child-friendly, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The price of a child’s ticket includes a free soft drink.
• Don't arrive too late in the afternoon. The Storehouse closes at 7 p.m., but the last entry is at 5 p.m.. You’ll want to be there by 4:30 p.m. to ensure you get through the doors in time. During July and August, you have a bit more time because the last entrance is extended to 7 p.m., with the Storehouse closing at 9 p.m.
• Guinness is still brewed onsite at St. James’s Gate, but you won’t actually see the beer being made. However, the informative and entertaining exhibits walk you through every step of the brewing process.
• Visiting the Guinness Storehouse is a self-guided experience. Plan to be there for about an hour and a half.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Guide To a Guinness Brewery Tour in Dublin

• By Oisin Feeney
• January 12, 2020
• Category: Dublin

Taking a Guinness Brewery Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Dublin .  When visiting the Irish capital, you just have to sample some of the country’s most famous beverage – Guinness. There really is no place better to try a pint of this well-loved beer than at the original source. 

The Guinness storehouse dates all the way back to 1759, where it was founded by Arthur Guinness . Since then, you can’t pass a pub anywhere in Ireland where they aren’t proudly pouring this stout. So if you are visiting Dublin , be sure to tick this significant activity off your list. 

The Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

The historic Guinness factory is located right in the heart of St James’s Gate. Since 1759, this has been the home of Guinness – where Arthur Guinness signed a 9000-year lease! The actual Guinness Storehouse, where the tour takes place, was once the brewery’s fermentation plant. This building goes back to 1904.

This Guinness tour and tasting experience will give anyone a complete understanding of this beverage. Not only will you get to see and learn about the production of this beer, but you will also get to taste it in the perfect setting. The tour includes some interesting sights and experiences. 

If you are interested in learning about a massive part of Irish cultural heritage, then you just have to visit the Guinness Brewery Dublin. Even if you are not a massive beer fan, this experience is well worth doing for the view at the end in the Gravity Bar! 

About the Guinness Tour

This brewery tour is one of the most iconic attractions in Dublin. Whether you love the famous stout, or just want to experience a unique Irish landmark, then this tour is a must. 

The Guinness Storehouse is a 7-story building. The tour covers the entire place, allowing you to learn everything there is to know about Ireland’s favourite drink.

The tour involves a completely interactive journey through this building – teaching you absolutely everything you could imagine about Ireland’s beer brewing heritage and history. The tour is self-guided, so you can choose to take it at whatever pace you like. 

You get to see some really amazing things during this tour, such as a blue indoor waterfall from the Wicklow Mountains, and walls with barley growing on them. There is also a room modelled after the old ships that used to transport Guinness. Another highlight is all of the old ad campaigns on display.

Some of the different themes that the tour covers include history, production, ingredients and recipes, the craft of brewing, distribution and transport, advertising and Guinness sponsorships. You will also get to learn how to pour the perfect pint and can choose to do the connoisseur tasting experience. 

Each floor will unveil new stories around the history and life of Guinness. You will get to learn about how Guinness has become one of the world’s favourite beers. The tour also focuses on the beer’s creator. 

Guinness Brewery Tour Highlights

As this tour covers a large area, there are many exciting things to expect along the way. Here are some highlights of the experience. 

The World’s Largest Pint Glass

The Guinness factory tour starts at the glass atrium. This is the very bottom of the world’s largest pint glass. 

To put this massive glass into perspective, it would hold 1 million regular pints of Guinness! Taking a tour through a gigantic beer glass is definitely a unique Irish experience. 

Gravity Bar

Enjoy a multi-sensory tasting experience at the very top of the Guinness Storehouse. After climbing your way up the building, learning all about this beer, there is nothing better than finally enjoying a taste of it.

The Gravity Bar is the brewery’s own special bar – a worthwhile attraction to visit in itself. This bar offers unbelievable sweeping views over Dublin. With the Guinness Storehouse below you and St James all around you, there is no better place to raise a glass of the top Irish stout.  

The tasting experience here will really allow you to appreciate and enjoy this famous black brew. 

The Cooperage Cafe

Located on the first floor, the Cooperage Cafe is the perfect place to line the stomach pre- or post-tour. Delicious coffee, pastries and sandwiches can be enjoyed here. If you need some quick fuel, then this cafe is always a favourite. 

Before leaving your Guinness tours, make sure to stop off at the fantastic souvenir shop. The store should definitely be explored before leaving the brewery in order to secure that perfect keepsake. 

From pint glasses to rugby balls, there is plenty of Guinness merchandise to help remember your Dublin adventure. 

What You Need to Know About the Guinness Tour, Dublin

If you’re planning on buying Guinness Storehouse tickets, there may be a few things you’ll need to know. Here is some important information on this must-do tour. 

How Long is the Brewery Tour?

As the tour is completely self-guided , you can take as long as you want to do it. The recommended duration of the tour is 1.5 hours, but you can stay longer if you want to make the most of the facilities.

Click here if you would prefer tickets for a guided tour of the facility. 

When is the Brewery Tour Open?

Guinness Storehouse tours operate from 9.30 am to 7 pm. This is open throughout the week. The last admission to the tour is at 5 pm on regular days. During the June, July and August summer months, the storehouse closes at 9 pm with final admissions being at 7 pm. 

The tour operates all year long but is closed on Christmas eve, Christmas day, Good Friday, and St Stephens day. 

Should You Book Guinness Tours?

It is possible to purchase Guinness Storehouse tickets on arrival, but we do recommend booking in advance. As this is such a popular Dublin attraction, having your ticket ready beforehand will make things much easier and may save you some disappointment. 

Pre-book your Guinness brewery tour for skip the line tickets. 

Where is the Guinness Storehouse?

The Guinness Storehouse can be found at St James’s Gate in Dublin. You’ll find the entrance on Market Street. 

If you’re travelling there by public transport, it would be best to take the Red Luas from the city centre. This stops at St James’s Street – a five-minute walk away from the brewery tour. There are also plenty of taxis that wait outside the tour – making it an easy place to find transport. 

Guinness Storehouse Tour Options

When taking the tour, there are two different options that you can choose from. You could go for the regular option which involves the standard tour through the brewery. 

Otherwise, there is the premium tasting experience which you can add onto your tour. This option includes a stop at the Guinness Academy where you will learn the 6 step process to pouring the perfect pint. 

You will leave this with a diploma, as well as a tasty glass of Guinness to enjoy!

Accommodation Near the Guinness Factory, Dublin

If you are planning a trip to Dublin, then the Guinness tour is something that you just can’t miss out on. Here are some great places to stay near the brewery.

Liberty Townhouses

The Liberty Townhouses are only a 5-minute walk away from the Guinness Storehouse – making them the ideal base during your trip. Each unit is fully kitted out, with a complete kitchen, dining area, lounge and garden. 

You can enjoy the comforts of home in these townhouses, as they are fully equipped with all of the amenities you may need during your stay. 

Ashling Hotel Dublin

The Ashling Hotel is perfectly located in central Dublin. If you want to walk to the city’s top attractions, then this is the ideal base. Only a 5 minute walk away from the Guinness brewery tour, your position couldn’t get any better. 

The hotel is really comfortable and stylish, with beautiful interiors. There is also a great restaurant here. 

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin

Luxurious Dublin accommodation doesn’t get much better than the Hyatt Centric Liberties . The place is super stylish and modern – allowing you to enjoy a comfortable stay in the heart of Dublin. 

The hotel is well-equipped and very close to the brewery, as well as other top Dublin attractions. 

Final Thoughts on the Guinness Tour, Ireland

There is good reason that Guinness is such a popular drink in Ireland, and this tour will allow you to discover exactly why. Anyone wanting to experience all there is to know about this delicious dark brew must definitely give this tour a go. 

It is an essential indoor activity in Dublin , and if you love beer it is an absolute must. Take this tour to unlock a very special part of Irish heritage. 

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About The Author

Oisin feeney.

Oisin is a journalist and award-winning photographer. Published in Lonelyplanet.com, buzz.ie, Derry Journal and Irishcentral.com. Currently working as a tour guide in Ireland, Italy, France and Iceland, Oisin is an expert on Ireland.

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St James' Gate, Dublin

High on the list for many people's 'Irish Experience' is a pint of the black stuff and where better to drink it than the home of Guinness...

The Guinness Storehouse is one of Dublin's most popular visitor attractions and here you will discover all there is to know about Ireland's most famous export. The Storehouse is situated in the original Brewery, which first opened in 1876 and visitors are treated to over 250 years of Guinness history including the story behind some of its most iconic adverts.

You'll also discover just what goes into making Guinness so special - the ingredients, the process, the pulling and finally the drinking, as you sip your complimentary pint in the stunning Gravity Bar, with amazing panoramic views of Dublin City - worth the entrance fee itself!

The Guinness Storehouse has a restaurant, where visitors can enjoy some good old Irish dishes along with their pint and has a huge range of Guinness souvenirs that you can buy to mark your trip.

Book your vacation with Discovering Ireland Vacation and we'll arrange discount admission to this must see visitor attraction!

No visit to Dublin is complete without a trip to the famous Guinness brewery in Dublin. The Guinness Hopstore is situated in the heart of old Dublin.

Adult: From €22.00. Adult Online From €18. Adult via Group From €18

Student (18+) & OAP: From €19

Children from 5-17: €10.00 Children under 5: Free

Family tickets: €54 (2A + up to 4C) 

Opening Times

January- June & September- December Daily 9:30-17:00pm (last admission at 17:00)

July and August: Daily 9:00- 18:00 (last admission at 18:00)

Information

Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes

See here for more details  https://www.guinness- storehouse.com/en

More details

Our vacations to Ireland  can be tailored to suit you. If you would like to include a visit to the Guinness Storehouse we can help you with planning your visit. We also have a range of  honeymoon  packages from romantic to adventure holidays.  Group Tours to Ireland  and  chauffeur tours  are our speciality - please contact us today for more details.

Open all year - 9.30am-5pm July & August - 9.30am-7pm Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, St Stephen's Day & Good Friday.

Visit Length

Restaurant: Yes Car Park: Yes Coach Park: Yes Disabled Access: Yes

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Things you need to know before visiting Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

When visiting Ireland you’re likely on the hunt for the best Guinness in Dublin. Everyone says the Guinness in Ireland tastes different. (It really is true!) But, since you’re a curious person, you want to visit Ireland and the mecca of Guinness to either agree or disagree. Read on to hear more about visiting the Guinness Storehouse and things to know in advance. I’ve visited twice with two different ticket types so I have first hand experience and recommendations.

Table of Contents

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer  here .

Tips for Visiting Guinness Storehouse in Dublin :

Buy your tickets in advance.

Since the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is one of the top attractions to visit definitely buy your tickets in advance online. It’s a self guided tour, but you choose the time of entry for your ticket. Especially if you’re visiting during a busy time of year or there is a large event in town it will be a lot busier. Don’t just assume you can buy them when you get there!

All experiences are not the same

What is most important to you when visiting the Guinness Storehouse? That will help to determine which ticket is right for you.

When purchasing your tickets you’ll notice that there are many different types of tickets with different activities included. I’ve experienced both the very basic ticket and the VIP Connoisseur experience.

All tickets will include the “museum” or learning about Guinness history and making beer through an interactive experience as well as a pint of beer to drink at the Gravity Bar.

The Academy experience includes another pint of Guinness and learning how to pour the perfect pint. A newer experience includes a beer with your picture on it. This is called a stoutie. With this ticket you get a second pint of beer with a fancy photo in the foam (much like fancy latte art at coffee shops.) A great photo op for the ‘gram! (P.S. Lets be friends! Follow me on the gram for all of my (beer) adventures in Ireland and beyond.) WanderLust in Real Life Instagram

The most all inclusive experience includes the museum and learning about Guinness origins, learning how to pour the perfect pint as well as a more intimate experience trying some more rare Guinness beers in a back lit bar with a small group. When we did the connoisseur experience in 2017 we also were given some bottles of our favorite beer to take with us. It was our honeymoon so they essentially gave them bottles of all of them when everyone else had to select 1-2 favorites. If you love craft beer, definitely splurge for this ticket! If you plan ahead, you could bring beer in your checked luggage home .

Visit the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar for a great view over Dublin

Included in every ticket is a pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar. They have expanded the Gravity Bar in 2020 to accommodate more people. It’s located on floor 7 of the Guinness Storehouse facility and has glass windows all the way around so you can see out over Dublin for a panoramic view.

There is luggage storage onsite

I wasn’t aware of this until my most recent visit, but they do have a luggage drop service here. So, if you’re looking for something to do in between when you have to head to the airport or immediately when you arrive but can’t yet check into your accommodation, why not check out the Guinness Storehouse for your first or last pint of the best Guinness in Dublin?

Length of time to visit

Be sure to allow yourself at least 2-3 hours to visit to take your time. There’s a lot to see, and plus you’re going to want to relax with a pint or two while you’re there. The first time I visited when I did the Connoisseur Experience I we spent more than that there. I think it was around 4 hours. There’s a lot to see and definitely don’t rush through it depending on what ticket you decided to purchase. If you’re planning on grabbing a bite to eat while there you may want to allow yourself additional time. But above all, don’t rush! You’ll be surprised how much time you can spend at the Storehouse drinking the best Guinness in Dublin.

Beyond the best Guinness in Dublin, food at Guinness Storehouse

If you’re planning to grab a bite onsite either before or after your Guinness Tour in Dublin at the Storehouse you can actually make reservations in advance at the 1837 Bar & Brasserie. Other options include the Brewer’s dining hall and the Cooperage Cafe. The Cafe is located on the first floor and is a quick bites more of a coffee shop with coffee, drinks & snacks. No matter what you fancy to eat, there are options at the Storehouse or there are many historic pubs all over Dublin. Read more about Dublin Things to do .

When to visit

Since the Guinness Storehouse experience is indoors you truly can visit rain or shine! Enjoying the Guinness Storehouse is not dependent on a gorgeous day. Even though my day feels a lot more sunny after a Guinness tour in Dublin with a pint in my hand.

It’s true!

The best Guinness is in fact at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. You should definitely be sure to do a Guinness tour in Dublin while you’re visiting Ireland. Below you’ll find more information about beer travel in Europe & a detailed 7 day Ireland travel itinerary with inspiration for your next Irish Adventure.

More Ireland Travel & Europe Beer Experiences :

Ireland in 7 days Itinerary

The Best Beer Experiences in Europe

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Best of Dublin: Jameson Distillery & Guinness Brewery Guided Tour

Why take this tour?

• Explore the historic Jameson Distillery Bow St. with expert guides who bring the rich history of Irish whiskey to life through fascinating stories.
• Savor a comparative tasting of three distinct Jameson whiskeys, discovering the unique flavors and subtleties that make each one special.
• Enjoy a Jameson signature cocktail crafted just for you at the centerpiece bar, giving you a true taste of Dublin's whiskey culture straight from the source.
• Delve into the iconic Guinness Storehouse, a seven-floor multimedia extravaganza where you'll learn about the global phenomenon of Guinness beer from its inception to today.
• Experience the Gravity Bar, sipping on a perfectly poured pint of Guinness while soaking in the breathtaking 360-degree views of Dublin’s skyline.
• Benefit from transportation between sites as the tour's convenient organisation ensures you enjoy the best of Dublin's drink heritage without any hassle, making your day both fun and stress-free.
• Sites Visited
• Jameson Distillery
• Guinness Storehouse
• Tour Includes
• Local English-speaking guide
• Transport from Jameson Distillery to Guinness Storehouse via local tram
• Visit to the Jameson whiskey distillery (guided tour with comparative tasting of three Jameson whiskeys & cocktail)
• Visit to Guinness Storehouse with self-guided audio tour & pint of Guinness in the renowned Gravity Bar

Sip and Savour Dublin: Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse Tour

Meeting point, you can also experience these similar tours.

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Dublin's Guinness Storehouse unveils new behind-the-gates brewery tour

Feb 5, 2020 • 1 min read

Dublin's Guinness Storehouse , the most visited attraction in Ireland , is now offering guests a behind-the-gates tour in areas of the brewery that were previously closed off to the public.

The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin 's historic Liberties neighbourhood is the top attraction in Ireland, with   over 1.7 million guests passing through its doors in 2018. The site, home to the famous Gravity Bar on the top floor with its panoramic views of Dublin city, offers a range of tours for visitors across seven floors, teaching them everything they need to know about Ireland's long-standing brewing history and what goes into making the perfect "pint of plain."

The newest tour, however, offers something a little different by lifting the curtain on what goes on behind-the-scenes or rather "behind-the-gates" of the St James Gate brewery. It's led by the company's so-called Beer Specialists and for the first time, visitors are invited down to the historic Roast House (where the barley is brewed) and guided across historic railways and cobbled stones to some of the oldest parts of the site, including the 200-year-old Vat Houses - following in the footsteps of founder Arthur Guinness who opened the brewery in 1759.

The two-hour tour, which is open to small groups of up to 12, also includes a visit to the state-of-the-art Brewhouse 4, where the velvety stout is brewed today. After walking through Dublin's brewing history, guests will end the tour with food and beer tasting of limited-edition brews in the Guinness Open Gate Brewery , the on-site experimental brewery. 

Tickets are priced at €95 (£80) per person for the behind-the-gates tour. For more information, see here .

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GUINNESS STOREHOUSE

Welcome to the home of guinness.

If you want to truly immerse yourself in the unique history, heart and soul of Ireland’s most iconic beer, there’s only one place to go – its home. The Guinness Storehouse contains seven unforgettable floors of sights, sounds and sensations in a building that has been brewing beer for over 250 years. Hopping with entertainment, this experience takes you on an immersive experience from grain to glass. From the artful brewing process to the iconic Guinness advertisements that have become pillars of Irish culture throughout the globe, there are so many special things to see. The 9,000 year lease signed and sealed in 1759 by Arthur Guinness himself is so impressive, it’s hard to find something even more special to top it. But there is.

VISIT THE STOREHOUSE

Exceptional Restaurant Experiences At The Guinness Storehouse

Plan Your Visit To Ireland’s Biggest Visitor Experience

Buy Tickets Now

THE GRAVITY BAR

Doubled in size in 2020, it provides you with unparalleled 360-degree views over one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A high point in Dublin, Gravity Bar must be experienced to be believed. With so much to see and do on the floors beneath it, it’s also the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy your complimentary pint of Guinness.

Keep updated with all things Guinness

The many shades of Guinness

The Guinness brand is synonymous with Ireland but the story is about much more than a beer. There’s a long history intertwined with the country.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 2, 2023

Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland

Your fun fact for the day: Although Guinness is often referred to as being black, it is officially a dark shade of ruby.

Within a simple pint of the famous Irish beer are shades of colours not obvious on first glance. For every pour in a pub somewhere, there are hours and hours of work behind the scenes. Behind the name Guinness, are years of history that stretch out beyond the brewery.

This creamy stout is more than just a beer. It is intertwined with the story of modern Ireland – and particularly here in Dublin.

I start my immersion into the story at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. This modern museum is part of the St James Gate Brewery that has been the home of the beer since 1759 when the company’s founder, Arthur Guinness, made his first ale.

You have to wonder what he would think of this tourist attraction. Over seven levels, the story of Guinness is told through multimedia displays, colourful exhibits, huge theatres and interactive experiences.

It’s an impressive museum and well worth a visit. (I think the design of the whole place is just as interesting as what is on display and that’s worth the entrance price alone.)

As I wander through the levels, reading stories about the brand’s history and the production processes, it’s the family that holds the Guinness name, not the beer, which interests me most.

Right from the start, the family members saw the important role they held in the community of Dublin and they set out to make the most of that. Not for their own personal gain, but for the city’s. (Although, that’s not to say they didn’t also make a very large financial personal gain along the way as well.)

Corporate philanthropy was at the core of the Guinness mission from the beginning. Arthur Guinness not only made sure that his workers were well paid and looked after, but he also funded schools and hospitals that improved the lives of the wider community.

This ethos continued with his son, Benjamin Guinness, who spent about £150,000 between 1860 and 1865 to help with the restoration of the city’s St Patrick’s Cathedral.

But it was the founder’s grandson, also called Arthur Guinness, who has probably made the biggest mark on Dublin. In the late 19th and early 20th century, he bought St Stephen’s Green and turned it into a large public park and also he paid for the restoration of Ireland’s first library (Marsh’s Library).

He was also a keen supporter of a program to build cottages that would be rented to poor Dubliners for reasonable rents.

This tradition has continued through the generations and the Guinness company has helped establish an institute for preventive medicine, a maternity hospital, and a fund to finance community entrepreneurs.

This entrepreneurial fund (called Arthur Guinness Projects) is an example of an initiative that is in operation today, carrying on the legacy. It is a forward-thinking project for the modern times – just as in the 1920s an employee program that offered pensions, subsidised meals and free concerts was seen as ahead of the times.

The museum at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse presents all of this as evidence of a brand that has always cared about more than profits and has prided itself on a popular identity that is recognisable around the world. While there’s certainly truth to that, I think the story is much more complicated.

You only have to read a few independent articles about the history of the Guinness family to see that, although their altruism was probably well-intentioned, it was also part of a broader political and economic strategy to cement their own personal power and provide security for the business during a time when English and Irish relationships were not straightforward.

It has worked, whatever the grand plan was. In 2015, more than 150 years after the company was founded, the slick exhibitions are popular with tourists because the Guinness brand is more than just a drink.

It has shades of colour beyond the obvious and that’s what fascinates people. It helps that Guinness sells more than 850 million litres of beer each year in 120 countries around the world – but the interest is fuelled by the history and the culture that the brand has developed over the years.

A story that is so intertwined with Ireland and Dublin has now become a global tale. It wouldn’t be this way without the Guinness family.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN DUBLIN

The city is easy to get around but I think you’ll find Dublin’s best accommodation south of the river, around St Stephen’s Green.

Being a student city, there are lots of hostels but I would recommend Generator Dublin .

Dublin can be expensive but you can get an affordable private room at Destiny Student – Tannery .

For a really cool hotel with a distinct style, I love The Dean Dublin .

And for modern five-star luxury, I don’t think you’ll find better than The Marker Hotel .

Time Travel Turtle was a guest of Tourism Ireland but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

More stories about Ireland

• The best things to do in Dublin
• Exploring the Guinness Brewery
• An itinerary through Ireland's Ancient East
• How to kiss the Blarney Stone
• The breathtaking Cliffs of Moher
• The World Heritage Site of Newgrange
• PLUS: my stories about Northern Ireland

8 thoughts on “The many shades of Guinness”

I’ve always enjoyed a glass of Guinness every once in a while but I had no idea there was so much history behind it. Inspiring back-story! Thanks for sharing. 🙂

Next time you drink one, you’ll have a whole new aspect to enjoy about it!

Guinness is also the best natural cure for anemia!

Then there’s no way I’m ever going to suffer from that! 🙂

The Guinness Storehouse was my favourite place to visit in Dublin. I took the Connoisseur Experience whilst there, and got to try more than a few different brews!

Ah, yes, I didn’t try that. But sounds like it is a good option to get a bit extra from the visit.

Awesome, it is so nice to see altruism and generosity in such large corporations such as Guinness. It is nice to know that there are still plenty of caring people out there.

I’ve always said that beer makes everyone’s lives better! 🙂

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Florida State football fans arrive in Ireland by the thousands: 'Seen a ton of Noles fans'

Florida State football fans have descended on Ireland.

The Seminoles purchased 11,000 tickets for No. 10 FSU's season opener Saturday against Georgia Tech in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin.

Fans haven't been wasting any time, quickly adjusting to the time difference – Dublin is five hours ahead of Eastern Time – and visiting must-see attractions as the program plays its first-ever game overseas.

The National Flag of Ireland, a tri-color of green, white and orange, has been flanked by a wave of garnet and gold. Smithfield Square, in fact, has been renamed "Seminoles Square" for the weekend,

Former Seminole (1980-83) David Ponder and wife Christine landed Wednesday in London, where they watched the changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace, walked the city and enjoyed fish and chips and The Mayfair Chippy.

They caught a 90-minute flight into Dublin, checking into their hotel Thursday morning and and circling a trifecta of distillery/brewery stops – the Teeling Distillery, Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse. The couple planned to meet friends for dinner at Osteria Lucio.

"I am actually sore from the 12 miles we walked in London," laughed Ponder, whose son Christian quarterbacked the Seminoles from 2006-2010.

"I am officially old."

The FSU football team practiced in Tallahassee Wednesday morning, chartered to Ireland and landed Thursday. Georgia Tech was also scheduled to land Thursday.

The noon game between the ACC rivals is on ESPN and sold-out (47,000).

Must-see places in Dublin, Ireland for FSU football fans

The country is known for its dramatic landscapes, warm hospitality, and countryside charm. And there are numerous events in Dublin planned over the next few days for the teams and fans.

FSU's acclaimed Marching Chiefs (170-plus members, mainly upper classmen) also arrived in Dublin and checked into their housing Thursday morning following a 24-hour travel day. The group had a day of sightseeing planned in the City Centre, followed by dinner and a show at a local pub called Johnnie Foxes. Their instruments were shipped earlier in the week.

Former FSU baseball player (1996-99) Zach Diaz and wife Heather are attending the game –and celebrating their 25 th wedding anniversary.

Despite sleeping just one hour on the overseas flight, they arrived Thursday morning and pressed on. The couple caught a a Hop On Hop Off bus and saw multiple sights just as Christ’s Church, Trinity College and Phoenix Park. They ate dinner at former Ultimate Fighting Championship Connor McGregor’s restaurant, The Black Forge, even posing for a photo with McGregor’s title belt.

The couple planned to stroll Grafton Street, the city’s main shopping district, and have lunch at Fitzsimmons Pub Friday.

"My wife texted our family group chat that we might as well be in Tally for the game because there are so many Noles fans here," Diaz said. "Everywhere you go it’s Seminole fans. All up and down the sidewalks of Dublin, inside every pub. Going in and out of the hotel, it’s Noles fans everywhere. We ran into friends of ours from Lakeland who also went to FSU on the Hop On Hop Off bus yesterday by random pure chance."

Former Tallahassee sports anchor John Peterson, who now resides in Tampa and is the host/CEO of The JP Peterson Show, broadcast live Thursday at a fundraiser for William Floyd's Bar None Foundation at Fitzsimons Temple Bar. Floyd is a former FSU and NFL fullback and the color analyst on FSU football radio broadcasts. Radio guests included former FSU quarterback Casey Weldon.

"We have seen a ton of Noles fans," said Peterson, who also initially visited London prior to arriving in Dublin.

"You'd be walking by 'Big Ben' (clock tower of the Palace of Westminster) and someone would scream 'Go Noles!' It was the same in the airport (Thursday). I also met a 1989 graduate who has been living in Denmark for 31 years and meeting up here (Dublin) with his frat buddies."

Weather conditions are known to change quickly and often in Ireland. The locals are fond of saying visitors can experience all four seasons in a day,

While August in Ireland on Wednesday was rainy, windy and chilly, Thursday's weather was an improvement at 61 degrees, generally cloudy. with a slight chance of rain.

The forecast for the next two days, including Saturday's game, features sunny weather with temps in the mid- to low-60s.

"It's overcast but no rain where I am standing," Ponder quipped.

Georgia Tech will fly home after the game. Because FSU plays on Labor Day Monday night at home against Boston College, the Seminoles will stay Sunday and Monday for sightseeing before returning to Tallahassee.

How can I watch Florida State football vs Georgia Tech

• Date:  Saturday, Aug. 24
• Time:  Noon ET
• Where:  Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland
• Streaming:   ESPN+  ($10.99 per month),  WatchESPN  and the ESPN app (TV provider subscription needed),  fuboTV  (7-day  free trial ),  YouTube TV  (2-week free trial),  Hulu + Live TV  (7-day free trial)

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