Guinness. It’s iconic. The black stuff, Irish champagne, ebony nectar, black custard, a pint of plain, are all nicknames for this much loved Irish institution. There’s no doubt that Guinness is one of the most famous beers in the world. For Guinness lovers, the Guinness Storehouse should be your first stop when you visit Dublin. This blog will guide you through what to see at the Guinness Storehouse, great pubs to visit for the best pint, plus foods that you can enjoy with your pint of Guinness.
St Patrick's Day: The best day of the year for a Guinness
Did you know that Saint Patrick's Day is originally a cultural and religious celebration? Held on 17 March, the day commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. But today, it's mostly regarded as a day to celebrate the heritage and culture of the Irish in general. That's where the partying comes in! Celebrations generally involve public parades and festivals, Irish traditional music sessions, and the wearing of green attire or shamrocks (green is the color associated with Catholics in Ireland). Oh, and drinking alcohol – particularly Irish whiskey, beer, or cider – has become an integral part of the celebrations. So, this Saint Patrick's Day, head to Dublin for one of the most memorable beer tasting experiences you'll ever have!
Psst! Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated in other cities around the world as well, most notably in North America. The city of Chicago for example is known for its extravagant celebrations, such as dying their river green. Check it out!
Visit the Guinness Storehouse
A visit to Dublin is not complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse and Brewery located in an amazing seven story building. The tour is self-guided and showcases the history of the Guinness family and Arthur Guinness who signed a 9000 year lease for the factory in 1759 (you can see the original lease in the glass atrium). You’ll love exploring the world of Guinness; how it’s made, shipped and the important people behind its success. Don’t miss the Gravity Bar, where you can take in stunning 360 degree views of Dublin and of course drink a pint. The Storehouse is a fantastic brewery tour, interactive, fun and admission also includes a voucher to enjoy a free pint of Guinness. Sláinte!
Tips for visiting the Storehouse
Open 7 days a week, all year round (excluding Good Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day), the Storehouse is wheelchair accessible and has free visitor parking. A handy tip is to book your tickets online to save 10% and avoid the queues. Don’t forget to pick up a Guinness cap or personalised bottle of Guinness at the souvenir shop on the ground floor.
Highlights of the Guinness Storehouse tour
Ever wanted to pour your own pint of Guinness? On the fourth floor of the Storehouse the Guinness Ambassadors will show you how to pour the perfect pint and you’ll even receive a certificate as proof of your new skill. Guinness is also known for its award-winning and memorable advertising campaigns. From the famous toucan to the Guinness Dancing man, you can check out for all the legendary advertising that dates back to the 1930s in the Advertising Gallery.
Fancy a gourmet Guinness treat?
You’ll be impressed by the great selection of restaurants at the Guinness Storehouse. Enjoy bistro dining in Gilroy’s, which has a contemporary menu and amazing artwork to appreciate while you tuck into your Guinness bread. Arthur’s Bar is a traditional pub serving sandwiches and other light bites or try a delicious Beef and Guinness Stew at Brewer’s Dining Hall.
The best food to accompany your pint
Heard of matching wine with food? Well what about matching food with Guinness? We’re not talking about a packet of crisps either. At the Storehouse you’ll not only experience some of the most scrumptious Irish fare around, but get expert tips on foods to pair with your Guinness.
For a unique culinary experience, try matching your pint of Guinness with: fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, ice cream (pour it over and have a Guinness ice cream float), salmon (oysters, mussels and lobster also work well), soda bread...
Where to enjoy a pint of Guinness in Dublin
After visiting the Storehouse make some time to have a pint of Guinness at a traditional Dublin bar. With well over 1000 pubs in Dublin it might be hard to know where to start, so check our suggested list for some pointers.
Great pubs in Dublin City to enjoy the black stuff: The Brazen Head (oldest pub in Dublin), Kehoe’s on South Anne Street, Grogans, just off Grafton Street, on William Street, The Long Hall on South Great George’s Street, McDaids at 3 Harry Street (the site of the former city morgue), Stag’s Head, 1 Dame Court. A great way to find out about other gems is to ask a Dubliner. A taxi driver is also sure to help point you in the right direction of where in Dublin to find the best Guinness.
Dublin Accommodation
After exploring Dublin's pubs and the world of Guinness, you’ll want a comfy and central hotel to get back to. Stay in the heart of the Irish capital with the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin.
My goodness my Guinness, enjoy exploring the Storehouse and have a memorable stay in Dublin!