The Tour

Start your tour in 1757 and discover how Irish whiskey was made in the time of the Lockes ownership of the distillery on one side of the courtyard and then follow on to see how Kilbeggan Irish whiskey is now being made in the traditional manner which includes a 180 year old pot still. A visit to Kilbeggan Distillery is a unique experience not to be missed!

Right in the heart of Ireland lies the town of Kilbeggan, home to the world’s oldest distillery, established in 1757. It is the quintessential Irish whiskey distillery – whitewashed walls, weathered slate roof, brick chimney stack, creaking timber water wheel, even regular ghost sightings. This is no mere “visitor centre” but a real working distillery run by a team of young enthusiastic craftspeople (and a few wise old heads too), skilled in the traditional ways of making Irish whiskey.

The Whiskey Bar stocks the complete range of Cooley Distillery Whiskeys, including the limited edition Kilbeggan Malt Distillery Reserve and Kilbeggan 18 Year Old.

The Gift Shop sells a range of gift ideas including clothing and glasses. We can also personalise a bottle of Kilbeggan Whiskey or Tyrconnell Malt Whiskey as gifts.

The Pantry Restaurant is the ideal location for your lunch stop. A private room catering for up to 60 people is available for your group.

Group Lunch Menus may be chosen in advance of the party’s visit and ensure smooth and swift service. Alternatively, tea/coffee and scones can be booked for a mid-morning or late afternoon stop.

Opening hours

November to March - Open 7 days a week, 10am until 4pm

April to October - Open 7 days a week, 9am until 6pm

The distillery is closed during the Christmas Period and new year holidays.