It has achieved cult like status in Ireland and is the jewel in the crown of our tourism industry. Since opening in 2000, it has received over 20 million visitors including Queen Elizabeth and Barack Obama. Guinness is undoubtedly Ireland’s most famous export and tourists come to The Guinness storehouse to learn all about its history and legacy. Read through some of the highlights that await you if you do decide to visit the famous St. James’s Gate.
Number 1 tourist attraction With over 20 million visitors nationally and internationally since it opened its doors in 2000, The Storehouse receives about 1.7 million visitors annually making it Ireland’s top tourist attraction. For a lot of people travelling to Dublin, a trip to the storehouse is a rite of passage and chances are you’ve seen someone posing outside the famous Saint James gate on social media.
Guinness Archives This is a haven for history bluffs. Tucked away in the Storehouse is a small room which acts as a business archive for Guinness. Though it is open to most people, you do need to request special access to the room. Once inside, it is a treasure trove of artefacts, books, photos and even barley grains from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Take a trip to the Gravity Bar This is the famous bar where visitors finally get to enjoy that longed for pint of Guinness. As one of the highest points in Dublin city, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Dublin city. In 2020, the bar underwent a €20 million expansion to accommodate growing numbers of tourists. It is the last stop on the tour where visitors can claim their complimentary pint of Guinness, the bar is also famously shaped like the head of a pint.
The Guinness Store This flagship retail store boasts the largest collection Guinness memorabilia worldwide. Engrave a glass with a personalised message, pick up something special for your Guinness loving friends back home or even sample some delicious sweets or savoury treats.
Dine in style Guinness and oysters are supposedly a perfect match, so why not enhance your visit here by fine dining at the 1837 Bar & Brasserie. A meal here can be booked as part of your visit or on OpenTable. The restaurant has a delicious menu and dishes are carefully selected to pair perfectly with a smooth creamy pint of Guinness.
Learn to pour the perfect pint The Storehouse is set over 7 floors, and, on the 4th, floor is The Guinness Academy. This is where you can learn the famous art of pouring a pint of Guinness and is a popular feature. Most beers are poured freehand but pouring Guinness has more of a knack, or a six-step ritual to be precise. You can also choose to drink a STOUTie, an innovative new concept where technology is used to add your selfie to the top of your pint.
Guinness Advertising The 3rd floor pays homage to the history of advertising and marketing Guinness has enjoyed the world over. It is a journey back in time through print and digital ad campaigns and features some of the more famous TV adverts you’ll probably remember growing up. The highlight of this floor is getting the chance to re-enact an old advert using your own image.
