Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Bow Street, Dublin, Dublin, D07 N9VH
Once the home of Jameson Irish Whiskey, the Bow St. distillery operated for nearly 200 years before production moved to County Cork in the 1970s. Today, the restored site serves as an interactive visitor center where travelers can explore the brand’s history through guided tours, tastings, and blending sessions. It’s a must-visit if you're interested in Irish craftsmanship, storytelling, and a taste of one of the country’s most famous exports.
The Basics
Entry to the Jameson Distillery Bow St. is by guided tour only. Many visitors opt for the 40-minute distillery tour, which includes an explanation of the ins and outs of whiskey making, a tour of the recreated distillery facilities, a whiskey tasting session, and a free drink at the onsite JJ’s Bar. Whiskey enthusiasts may want try a whiskey-blending masterclass, a whiskey cocktail-making workshop, or a premium whiskey-tasting session, during which they can compare and contrast four different Jameson whiskeys.
Cask draw experiences, during which visitors get to taste unblended pot still whiskey straight from a cask in the maturation warehouse, are also available. Fans of Irish alcoholic drinks can pair a tour of the Jameson Distillery Bow St. with a tour of the nearby Guinness Storehouse, where Ireland’s popular malty stout is produced. Jameson Distillery Bow St. entry is included in the Dublin Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
A tour of this historic facility is a must-do for Irish whiskey enthusiasts.
The Jameson Distillery Bow St. is wheelchair accessible.
Children are welcome on distillery tours, providing they are accompanied by an adult.
How to Get There
The distillery is located on Bow Street in Dublin’s city center. Take the Luas tram (Red Line) to Smithfield station, which is just a 2-minute walk from the distillery. Hop-on hop-off buses also stop near the Jameson Distillery Bow St.
When to Get There
Tours take place at least every 30 minutes and even more regularly during busy periods. On weekends, tours frequently sell out by mid-afternoon, so book in advance or arrive earlier in the day to ensure a spot.
Dublin for Whiskey Lovers
The Jameson Distillery Bow St. is just one of several whiskey-related attractions in Dublin. Fans of the triple-distilled tipple can also visit the Irish Whiskey Museum, which chronicles the rise, fall, and resurgence of the Irish whiskey industry. Consider touring working distilleries such as Teeling and Pearse Lyons, as well as sampling even more Irish whiskeys in bars such as the Victorian-era Bowes and the Palace Bar on Fleet Street.
Ways to explore
Entry to the Jameson Distillery Bow St. is by guided tour only. You'll take a walk through the recreated distillery, get an explanation of the whiskey-making process, indulge in a tasting session, and receive a complimentary drink at JJ’s Bar. Whiskey enthusiasts can upgrade to blending or cocktail-making workshops or premium tastings to compare several Jameson varieties. If you're interested in Ireland’s drink heritage, you can combine your visit with the nearby Guinness Storehouse. Entry is also included with the Dublin Pass, which makes it an easy stop on a wider Dublin itinerary.
Accessibility
The distillery is accessible to wheelchair users thanks to elevators, accessible restrooms, and wheelchairs available to rent.
Age limits
The tour is family-friendly, but whiskey tastings are reserved for visitors who are over 18 only.
What to pack
Camera, small bag, valid photo ID if you want to take part in tastings
What to wear
Casual clothing, comfortable shoes, layers
Not allowed
Bachelor/bachelorette parties, inappropriate fancy dress, disruptive behavior
Amenities
Bar, gift shop, restrooms
Address
The historic distillery sits in the Smithfield/Arran Quay area of central Dublin. Visitors can reach it easily by car, taxi, or via guided walking tours from the city centre.
Driving
If driving from Dublin city centre, you can take the R148/Quay roads heading northwest, then follow the signs for Smithfield. The nearest parking lot is on Queens Street/Smithfield Square.
Public transportation
It’s easy to get here using hop-on hop-off bus routes that stop at Smithfield. Alternatively, take the red line Luas tram to Smithfield Station, which is a 2-minute walk from the distillery.
Best times to visit
Aim late morning (just after opening) or early afternoon for fewer crowds than the peak afternoon hours of 3–5pm.
Best days to visit
Fridays and weekends can get very busy, so choose a weekday (Monday–Thursday) if you can.
Best months to visit
Plan for April-May or September–October for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists than the busy summer season.
Special events
St. Patrick’s Day festivities in March create a lively atmosphere citywide, so come during this time to experience the buzz.
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