Dublin: Guinness Storehouse, Roe & Co Irish Whiskey Tour

If you’re headed to Dublin and want to get a real taste of Ireland’s brewing and distilling legacy, this combined tour offers a great way to do it. It takes you inside the iconic Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn about Ireland’s most famous stout, and into Roe & Co’s vibrant whiskey distillery, a newer addition to Dublin’s historic “Golden Whiskey Triangle.” For about four hours and $111, you get skip-the-line entry, guided insights, tastings, and even a pint of Guinness in Dublin’s highest bar.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are the expert guides—like Dermot and Malene—who bring history to life with engaging stories and genuine enthusiasm, and the diverse tasting opportunities, from whiskey blending workshops to enjoying a fresh Guinness with panoramic Dublin views. The only potential downside is the pace of the tour, which can be a bit tight if you’re hoping for more unstructured time or want to linger longer at each stop. Still, the well-organized itinerary keeps things moving smoothly, and it’s a fantastic introduction to Dublin’s brewing roots.

Key points / Takeaways

• Skip-the-line access makes for a stress-free visit to popular attractions, avoiding long waits.
• Guided tours are led by knowledgeable locals, adding insights and personal stories that deepen your understanding.
• Tasting experiences include a variety of whiskey samples, a premium drink, and a pint of Guinness with spectacular city views.
• Authentic culture through walking the historic “Golden Whiskey Triangle” with a professional guide.
• Unique whiskey workshop that covers the art of blending and cocktail making—an interactive highlight.
• Convenient location starting in Dublin’s lively Liberties district, with a historical pub as a meeting point.

Inside the Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting at Arthur’s Pub in The Liberties

Your journey kicks off at Arthur’s Pub, a classic Dublin spot that sets the tone for authentic experiences. Arriving 15 minutes early is wise, as latecomers can’t be accommodated. From here, a friendly guide leads the group to the first stop: the Guinness Storehouse.

Visiting Guinness Storehouse: Ireland’s Number One Attraction

Housed in a former fermentation plant at St. James’s Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is as much a spectacle as it is a brewery. The tour lasts around 100 minutes and is packed with informative stops, like the iconic “world’s largest pint glass” that pierces through the building. You get to see the original ingredients—water, barley, hops, and yeast—and learn how they combine to create the dark, creamy stout that’s known worldwide.

What I found most delightful is the lively storytelling that guides you through the brewing process—your guide will likely point out fascinating artifacts like Guinness’s original 9,000-year lease signed by Arthur Guinness himself in 1759. From the ground floor, you ascend through various themed floors, each revealing different aspects of Guinness’s history and brewing process.

The Gravity Bar: Best Views and a Pint of Guinness

Your ticket includes a drink in the Gravity Bar, Dublin’s highest vantage point, offering sweeping views over the city skyline. Imagine sipping a perfectly poured Guinness while listening to the chatter of fellow visitors and taking in Dublin’s rooftops. It’s a memorable way to conclude the visit, especially as your guide shares stories about Dublin’s brewing traditions.

Transition to Roe & Co Irish Whiskey

After the Guinness experience, you’ll walk over to the Roe & Co Distillery in the Powerhouse, a historic building with a modern twist. This part of the tour is about 1.5 hours and offers a lively, behind-the-scenes look at Ireland’s emerging whiskey scene.

Whiskey Making and Tasting: Fun and Interactive

Here, you’ll witness an immersive whiskey-making demonstration and get hands-on in the art of blending. The reviews highlight guides like Malene, who make what could be a dry process into a fun, memorable activity. “The cocktail making class was shockingly good, and I’d feel comfortable re-creating it at home,” says one guest. The tasting includes several whiskey samples plus a premium whiskey drink, perfect for discovering different flavor profiles.

Walking the Whiskey Trail

The guided walking part of the tour takes you through Dublin’s Whiskey Trail, weaving together history, culture, and modern-day distilling. An authentic experience that breaks down the long-standing importance of whiskey to Dublin’s economy and identity, with plenty of stories and local insights from your guide. Michelle, one reviewer, called her guide “the best she’d ever had,” praising the charm, knowledge, and personal touches like offering salt and vinegar chips when feeling under the weather.

Final Stop: The Brazen Head Pub

The tour ends at Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head, dating back to the 12th century. It’s a fitting spot for a final toast, and many find this charming historic setting adds a memorable finish to the day. The guided visit here is brief but gives you a glimpse into Dublin’s centuries-old pub scene.

Logistics: What You Need to Know

Duration and Pricing

For $111 per person, this tour packs a lot into four hours. While not cheap, the price reflects the skip-the-line access, guided insight, tastings, and the combination of two top Dublin attractions. It’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at Ireland’s brewing scene without the hassle of planning separate visits.

Group Size and Guides

Guides like Dermot and Malene earn high praise for their friendliness and deep knowledge. Small to medium-sized groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Be aware that the tour moves briskly, so comfortable shoes and good health are important.

Meeting Point and Timing

You’ll meet at Arthur’s Pub in The Liberties, 15 minutes early. The tour operates rain or shine, so weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes are essential—expect uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and some hills.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This experience isn’t suitable for children under 12 or for those with mobility issues, as there’s walking over uneven surfaces and stairs involved. Also, no large bags, luggage, or strollers are allowed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers eager to understand Dublin’s beer and whiskey traditions firsthand. It suits those who appreciate guided storytelling, taste testing, and a bit of interactive fun. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with adults or teenagers (over 12) who enjoy spirits and local culture. If you’re seeking a relaxed pace combined with authentic insights, this tour hits the mark. On the other hand, if you prefer a more freeform exploration or have mobility limitations, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In my view, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and tasting that highlights Dublin’s brewing legacy in a way that feels genuine and engaging. The guides are clearly passionate, and the venues are authentic—especially the historic Guinness brewery and the innovative Roe & Co distillery. The tasting component is generous, and the panoramic views from Gravity Bar make the price worthwhile.

While it’s a bit of a whirlwind, it’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable, educational, and flavor-filled introduction to Dublin’s iconic drinks scene. If you like stories, good drinks, and a guided experience that feels personal, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 12 are not allowed on this tour, and it’s designed for adults interested in the drinks and history.

Does the tour include transportation between sites?
No, it’s a walking tour starting from Arthur’s Pub, with all stops within walking distance in Dublin’s historic Liberties district.

Are food options included in the tour?
No, food is not included. You might want to have a meal before or after the tour.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves walking over uneven surfaces and possibly outdoor sections.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
The tour is fixed in duration and content, but you can explore additional attractions independently afterward.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, and participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Check current availability, but mid-morning or early afternoon tours tend to offer the best lighting and atmosphere.

To sum it up, this combined Guinness and whiskey tour in Dublin offers a lively, informative, and flavorful window into Ireland’s storied drinking culture. With expert guides, engaging tastings, and historical insights, it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to understand Dublin’s brewing and distilling legacy beyond just sipping a pint. Suitable for curious adults who enjoy a good story, a fine dram, or simply want a memorable Dublin experience, this tour proves that Ireland’s drinks are about much more than just the drink itself—they’re about tradition, craftsmanship, and community.