Smithwick’s Beer Experience

Experience the heritage of Irish brewing with the Smithwick’s Beer Experience in Kilkenny.

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Smithwick’s Beer Experience:

The Experience

Experience the Smithwick’s Beer Experience in Kilkenny, a captivating journey through over 300 years of brewing history.

Located on the grounds of the original St. Francis Abbey, this tour tells the story of how brewing began with Franciscan monks in the 13th century and how the Smithwick family built on their legacy to create one of Ireland’s most loved ales.

Step inside the brewery and follow the journey from grain to glass. Learn how four simple ingredients — water, barley, hops and yeast — come together to create Smithwick’s distinctive taste. On the brewing floor, take in the scent of fresh hops and roasted malt while hearing how centuries of innovation and craftsmanship shaped this world-famous beer.

Your visit ends in the intimate tasting bar, where you can enjoy a complimentary pint of Smithwick’s or a refreshing soft drink. With expert storytelling and a taste of authentic Irish heritage, the Smithwick’s Beer Experience is a must for anyone exploring Kilkenny!

Important Information

Only those aged over 18 will be able to taste the beer and ingredients. Complimentary audio guides are available in French, German, Spanish and Italian.

Your Golden Moments voucher is not a ticket - please activate your voucher at www.goldenmoments.ie/redemption so we can arrange your booking for you.

To upgrade your ticket or add additional participants to your booking, simply reach out to our friendly customer service team.

The Weather

The weather will not affect the Smithwicks tour.

Session Length

The fully guided tour will last approximately one hour. At the end of the tour you can enjoy a complimentary drink in the bar (either a pint of Smithwick's or a soft drink).

Numbers

Your voucher is valid for one person and you will share the tour with other participants.

Spectators

Anyone wishing to join you on the tour should also hold a valid voucher. To add additional participants to your booking, please contact us.

What To Wear

Please wear smart casual attire.

Availability

Avaiable throughout the day throughout the year.

Location

Kilkenny.

Code : IE10014752

Smithwick’s Beer Experience:

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Smithwick’s Beer Experience: Availability

Peak season opening hours are 11am-5pm. Tours will commence every 20 minutes. During winter months, opening hours are reduced. Please contact us for further information.

Smithwick’s Beer Experience: Fascinating Facts

The Franciscan monks began brewing ale at St Francis Abbey as far back as 1231.
Edmund Smithwick (great grandson of John Smithwick) was elected Mayor of Kilkenny on four occasions and during the famine Edmund set up soup kitchens in Kilkenny. Edmund was also a close friend of Daniel O'Connell.
The famous gates you walk through to start the tour date back to 1827, it was then after the reversal of the penal laws that the Smithwick name hung proudly over the gates for the first time.
Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny is located in the heart of Ireland's Medieval Mile, next to Rothe House and St. Canice's Cathedral. It is less than a five minute walk from Kilkenny Castle.