Old Bushmills Distillery
Explore the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, steeped in centuries of Irish tradition and craftsmanship.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Old Bushmills Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, steeped in centuries of Irish tradition and craftsmanship.
"A truly immersive experience into the heart of Irish whiskey heritage. "
🎯 Book tours ahead
Popular tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🥃 Tasting included
Your tour ticket often includes a complimentary dram – a great surprise! :whiskey:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Distillery Tour & Tasting
Explore centuries of whiskey-making history and savor a tasting of Bushmills' finest single malts.
Exclusive Distillery Shop
Discover rare bottlings, unique gifts, and Bushmills merchandise not found anywhere else.
The Bar Experience
Enjoy a wide selection of Bushmills whiskeys in a welcoming atmosphere, with affordable prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Combine with Causeway Coast
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book tours ahead
Popular tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🥃 Tasting included
Your tour ticket often includes a complimentary dram – a great surprise! :whiskey:
🚗 Easy to reach
Accessible by car, and a common stop on Causeway Coast tours from Belfast.
🛍️ Unique gifts
The gift shop offers exclusive whiskeys, local treats, and souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book tours ahead
Popular tours fill up fast! Book online to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🥃 Tasting included
Your tour ticket often includes a complimentary dram – a great surprise! :whiskey:
🚗 Easy to reach
Accessible by car, and a common stop on Causeway Coast tours from Belfast.
🛍️ Unique gifts
The gift shop offers exclusive whiskeys, local treats, and souvenirs.
🚫 No photos in production
Electronic devices are not allowed in the production areas for safety. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Bushmills Distillery for its rich history, engaging tours, and excellent whiskey tastings. The knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to purchase exclusive bottles are frequently highlighted as positives. Some wish for more time on shorter day tours, and photography restrictions in production areas are noted.
"We visited Bushmills Distillery by coach as part of a day trip that visited many points of interest in Northern Ireland, including Giant's Causeway. We only had 45 minutes, however this was enough time to visit the shop and taste a few drams in the bar. Kids are only allowed in certain areas, but worth knowing there is a shop just along the road so our teenagers went off and bought ice creams while we had a look around.
The shop has a huge Whiskey area with lots of choice. It's worth knowing that Belfast International Airport has updated its security systems (as has Birmingham) and you can now carry up to 2 litres per person through security with no need to put liquids in a separate bag - everything can just be packed as normal. This was great because we were able to take a few bottles home with us.
The gift shop has some lovely items, all Bushmills related obviously - we bought marmalade, shortbread, miniature bottles and fudge as gifts (some we have put away for Christmas as they will last).
The bar is spacious and welcoming - you can try so many different Whiskeys (an advantage of being on a coach rather than driving). They also offer flights of several different ones to try.
Would have happily had longer here, but we managed to get a lot out of our 45 minutes!"
Sara Watson
"Great tour led by Tim. Interactive at times and ended at the bar. Drink included with your ticket which was a surprise as didn’t catch that at booking. Drink prices are incredible reasonable for drinks before if you arrive early or just want to have a drink in a nice atmosphere. Would definitely recommend a visit and a tour if you have time."
Madison Brooke
"Before and after the refresh paint job on the roof, love visiting this distillery every time I come to Northern Ireland.
Great selection and fantastic gift ideas not to mention the exclusive blends that are only available at the distillery."
james smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, numerous day tours from Belfast include the distillery as part of a Causeway Coast itinerary, often combining it with the Giant's Causeway.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. If you're arriving by coach as part of a tour, parking is usually handled by the tour operator.
If you're staying in the village of Bushmills, the distillery is within easy walking distance, often just a 10-minute stroll.
While direct public transport can be limited, local bus services connect to Bushmills from larger towns like Coleraine. However, tours are generally the most convenient option for tourists.
Yes, the Old Bushmills Distillery is a prominent landmark in the village and is well-signposted.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Typically, a tour ticket includes a guided walk through the distillery's production areas and a tasting of one of their whiskeys. Some packages may offer more extensive tastings.
Yes, Bushmills offers various experiences, from standard tours to more in-depth tasting sessions featuring different age statements and cask finishes.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Old Bushmills Distillery website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and visitor center hours.
Children are welcome in certain areas of the distillery, such as the shop and bar, but are generally not permitted in the production areas during tours.
🎫 🥃 Whiskey & Tastings
This is subjective! Many visitors enjoy the 16 or 21-year-old expressions. The distillery offers tasting flights so you can sample several.
Absolutely! The distillery shop is known for offering exclusive bottlings and limited editions not available elsewhere.
While the focus is on whiskey, the bar may offer other beverages. The gift shop also sells Bushmills-themed non-alcoholic items like marmalade.
Tasting sessions can vary in length depending on the package, but expect them to be a focused part of your distillery experience, often lasting 30-60 minutes.
The 'angel's share' refers to the whiskey that evaporates from the cask during maturation. Bushmills acknowledges this natural process in their storytelling.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Photography is generally not permitted in the active production areas of the distillery for safety reasons. You can take photos in the visitor center, shop, and bar areas.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as welcoming and steeped in history. The staff are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
Even if you don't drink whiskey, the historical aspect and the process of distillation are fascinating. You can opt out of the tasting if preferred.
The world-famous Giant's Causeway is just a short drive away. Other nearby attractions include Dunluce Castle and the coastal towns of Portrush and Portstewart. +1
The distillery is known for its long history, dating back to 1608, and the rich heritage of Irish whiskey-making. Some tales might hint at local folklore.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🥃 Whiskey Enthusiasts
+1 The distillery shop is a treasure trove for rare bottlings and distillery-exclusive releases that are a must-have for any serious collector. Engaging with knowledgeable guides and tasting staff can provide invaluable insights into the nuances of Bushmills' production and aging processes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Bushmills: A Distillery Steeped in History
This incredible longevity means that centuries of craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation have been poured into every bottle. The distillery's buildings themselves are a testament to this history, with ancient whitewashed and brick structures that transport visitors back in time. It's not just about the age; it's about the continuous evolution of Irish whiskey-making, passed down through generations, including families like the Kanes who have served as coopers for years. +1Walking through the distillery, you get a tangible sense of this heritage. The process, from malting to maturation, has been refined over hundreds of years. While modern techniques are employed, the core principles remain. This deep connection to the past is palpable, making a visit more than just a tour; it's an immersion into Irish whiskey lore.
The very air seems to carry the scent of aging spirits and the echoes of countless distillers who have worked these grounds. This historical significance is a major draw for visitors. It offers a unique perspective on Ireland's cultural and industrial past, all centered around the production of a world-renowned spirit. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or simply curious about heritage crafts, Bushmills provides an unparalleled glimpse into a living piece of history.
Experiencing Bushmills: Tours, Tastings, and More
The tasting sessions are a highlight for many, allowing visitors to sample a range of Bushmills expressions. These can range from a single dram included with your tour ticket to more extensive flights featuring different age statements and cask finishes, such as the 16-year-old matured in sherry and port casks.
Beyond the core whiskey experience, the surrounding village of Bushmills offers a charming base. The Old Bushmills Barn, a historical holiday cottage, is just a short walk away, providing a unique place to stay that complements the distillery visit.
Many visitors combine their distillery tour with explorations of the iconic Giant's Causeway and other scenic spots along the Causeway Coast, making for a comprehensive Northern Ireland adventure. 
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