Exploring Dublin’s Craft Brewing Industry: The Best Tours, When to Visit, and What Families Need to Know
- The Kick Team
- Jun 6
- 4 min read
Dublin’s brewing heritage is one of the city’s greatest cultural treasures. From world‑famous stout to new‑wave craft breweries, the capital offers visitors a chance to step inside working brewhouses, taste award‑winning beers, and discover the stories behind Ireland’s most iconic drinks. Whether you’re a beer lover, a curious traveller, or a family looking for an engaging cultural experience, Dublin’s brewery tours offer something for everyone.
This guide explores the top brewery tours in Dublin, the best times of year to book, and which experiences are suitable for children.
🍺 A Quick Look at Dublin’s Brewing Scene
Dublin’s brewing history stretches back more than 300 years. Today, the city blends tradition with innovation:
Historic giants like Guinness continue to dominate global stout production.
Independent craft breweries are thriving, producing IPAs, sours, lagers, and experimental brews.
Taprooms and tasting rooms offer relaxed, social spaces to sample Irish beer culture.
For visitors, brewery tours are one of the most popular activities in Dublin—second only to museums and heritage attractions.
⭐ 1. Guinness Storehouse – Ireland’s Most Visited Attraction
No brewing tour list is complete without the Guinness Storehouse, a seven‑storey experience inside the original fermentation plant at St. James’s Gate.
What to Expect
Immersive exhibits on brewing, advertising, and Guinness history
A behind‑the‑scenes look at ingredients and craft
The famous Gravity Bar with 360° views of Dublin
Optional tasting experiences and stout‑pouring classes
Child‑Friendly?
Yes. Children are welcome and receive soft drinks instead of alcohol. The interactive exhibits are engaging for all ages.
Best Time to Book
Peak season: May–September (book 2–4 weeks in advance)
Quieter months: January–March and November
Weekdays are less busy than weekends
⭐ 2. Jameson Distillery Bow St. – Not Beer, But a Must‑Visit
While not a brewery, Jameson is one of Dublin’s most popular drinks tours and often paired with brewery visits.
What to Expect
Guided tours of the historic distillery
Whiskey tasting sessions
Cocktail‑making classes
Child‑Friendly?
Yes. Under‑18s can join the standard tour with a non‑alcoholic drink.
Best Time to Book
Book 1–2 weeks ahead in summer
Walk‑ins possible midweek in off‑season
⭐ 3. The Open Gate Brewery – Guinness’s Experimental Taproom
Located beside the main Guinness brewery, the Open Gate Brewery is where Guinness brewers experiment with new flavours.
What to Expect
Small‑batch beers not available anywhere else
A relaxed taproom atmosphere
Food pairings and seasonal brews
Child‑Friendly?
No. This is an adults‑only venue.
Best Time to Book
Evenings fill quickly—book a few days in advance
Seasonal events (Christmas, summer specials) sell out early
⭐ 4. Dublin’s Craft Beer Trail – A Guided Walking Experience
For visitors who want to explore multiple breweries and taprooms, the Dublin Craft Beer Trail is a fantastic option.
What to Expect
Visits to independent breweries and craft pubs
Tastings of Irish IPAs, stouts, and seasonal brews
Local guides sharing stories of Dublin’s beer culture
Child‑Friendly?
No. This tour is strictly for adults.
Best Time to Book
Weekends sell out—book 1–2 weeks ahead
Winter tours are quieter and often discounted
⭐ 5. Rascals Brewing Co. – A Family‑Friendly Craft Brewery
Located in Inchicore, Rascals Brewing Co. offers one of Dublin’s most relaxed and welcoming brewery tours.
What to Expect
A working craft brewery tour
Pizza restaurant on site
Seasonal events and outdoor seating
Child‑Friendly?
Yes. Children can join the tour (no alcohol served to under‑18s) and enjoy the food and atmosphere.
Best Time to Book
Weekends are busy—book a few days ahead
Great option for rainy days or family groups
⭐ 6. Whiplash Brewery – For Serious Craft Beer Fans
Whiplash is one of Ireland’s most acclaimed craft breweries, known for bold, modern beers.
What to Expect
They don't do Tours but produce Beers that are unique.
Tastings of limited‑edition brews
Insight into Ireland’s independent brewing scene
Child‑Friendly?
No. Adults only.
Best Time to Book
Tours run on select days—book 1–2 weeks in advance
📅 When Is the Best Time of Year to Book Brewery Tours?
Peak Season (May–September)
Highest demand
Book major attractions (Guinness, Jameson) 2–4 weeks ahead
Craft breweries: 1–2 weeks ahead
Shoulder Season (March–April, October)
Great balance of availability and atmosphere
Book 1 week ahead for major tours
Off‑Peak (November–February)
Shorter queues and lower prices
Walk‑ins possible for smaller breweries
Guinness still benefits from advance booking on weekends and holidays
👨👩👧 Are Dublin Brewery Tours Child‑Friendly?
Here’s a quick guide:
Brewery / Tour | Child‑Friendly? | Notes |
Guinness Storehouse | ✔ Yes | Soft drinks provided; interactive exhibits |
Jameson Distillery | ✔ Yes | Under‑18s allowed on standard tour |
Rascals Brewing Co. | ✔ Yes | Family‑friendly restaurant and events |
Open Gate Brewery | ✘ No | Adults only |
Craft Beer Trail | ✘ No | Alcohol‑focused walking tour |
Whiplash Brewery | ✘ No | Adults only |
🎯 Final Tips for Visitors
Book early during summer and holiday weekends
Choose child‑friendly options like Guinness or Rascals if travelling with family
Combine tours—Guinness + Jameson is a classic Dublin day out
Check seasonal events such as winter warmers, summer festivals, and limited‑edition releases
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