Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny

Smithwick's Experience is housed in a restored Victorian brewery building with displays showing the beer-making process and historical items. The rooms guide you through different stages of production, from raw ingredients to the finished product.

The brewery was founded in 1706 and operated at this site for over 300 years before becoming a visitor center in recent times. This long history shows how the building lived through different eras and changes in the brewing industry.

The name comes from John Smithwick, whose family shaped brewing traditions over many generations. Today you can see how this red ale became woven into Irish pub culture and social gatherings.

The venue offers tastings and hands-on activities like pouring techniques and handling raw materials. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the different exhibition areas and enjoying the activities at your own pace.

Beneath the building lie foundations of a 13th century medieval abbey that stood on this site long before the brewery was founded. These archaeological remains connect the modern brewing history with the monastic past of the location.

Location: Kilkenny

Inception: 1706

Website: http://smithwicksexperience.com

GPS coordinates: 52.65451,-7.25387

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00