The Guinness Storehouse sits at the heart of Dublin’s historic St. James’s Gate Brewery and invites visitors on a seven-floor journey through the origins, brewing process and cultural impact of Ireland’s most iconic stout. Since opening its doors in 2000, this visitor experience has become Ireland’s top attraction, welcoming over 25 million guests and serving millions of pints alongside immersive exhibitions and hands-on learning opportunities. This long-form guide explores the Storehouse’s history, floor-by-floor highlights, the famed Gravity Bar, pouring masterclasses at the Guinness Academy, and all the practical information you need for an unforgettable visit to the Home of Guinness.
What is the Guinness Storehouse?
Located within the walls of Arthur Guinness’s original leasehold at St. James’s Gate, the Guinness Storehouse is a multi-level museum and brand experience dedicated to the story of Guinness. The building itself is shaped like a giant pint glass, symbolising the stature of the Black Stuff in Ireland and worldwide. Visitors embark on a self-guided tour that blends interactive exhibits, rare archival material, multimedia installations and theatrical set pieces to bring the Guinness narrative to life.
History of Guinness and St. James’s Gate Brewery
Arthur Guinness, a 34-year-old entrepreneur, signed a 9,000-year lease for the St. James’s Gate brewery in 1759 for an annual rent of £45, laying the foundation for what would become a global brewing empire. Born out of a need to differentiate from the popular darker porters of the 18th century, Arthur refined his own recipe into the smooth, creamy stout that defines Guinness today. Over subsequent centuries, Guinness expanded across the world, becoming synonymous with Irish culture and hospitality.
Exploring the seven floors experience
Each of the Storehouse’s seven floors focuses on a distinct theme, guiding visitors from raw ingredients to pouring the perfect pint.
Key highlights by floor
- Floor 1: Ingredients – Discover the four essentials of Guinness (water, barley, hops and yeast) through sensory exhibits.
- Floor 2: Brewing – Interactive displays explain the brewing process, from malting and roasting to fermentation.
- Floor 3: Cooperage – Explore the art of barrel making, essential to Guinness’s export trade in the 19th century.
- Floor 4: Advertising – View iconic Guinness ad campaigns and slogans, including rare lithographs and posters.
- Floor 5: Guinness Archive – Delve into manuscripts, photographs and artefacts tracing Guinness’s 260-year history.
- Floor 6: Guinness Academy – Learn to pour and taste like a pro in a guided masterclass led by certified instructors.
- Floor 7: Gravity Bar – Conclude your journey with panoramic views over Dublin while enjoying a complimentary pint.
The Gravity Bar: A panoramic pint above Dublin
Perched atop the Storehouse, the Gravity Bar offers 360° vistas of Dublin’s skyline and surrounding landmarks such as Phoenix Park, the River Liffey and Dublin Bay. The bar’s name reflects the original gravity-fed system that moved beer between storage tanks on this level. Every visitor aged 18 or over receives a complimentary pint of Guinness, Guinness 0.0 or a soft drink, making it the perfect spot to savour Ireland’s national drink against a stunning urban backdrop.
The Guinness Academy: Mastering the perfect pour
The Guinness Academy on the sixth floor transforms visitors into certified pour specialists through a step-by-step masterclass. Under expert guidance, participants learn:
- The correct glass angle and pouring speed
- How to achieve the signature two-part pour and creamy head
- Tasting notes to identify aroma, mouthfeel and flavour subtleties
Upon completion, guests receive a Guinness Pouring Certificate, a unique souvenir that marks their new-found expertise.
Practical visitor information
Preparing for a trip to the Guinness Storehouse ensures a smooth, memorable experience.
Opening hours
- Monday to Friday: 10:00–17:00 (last entry at 17:00; building open until 19:00)
- Saturday: 09:30–18:00 (last entry at 18:00; building open until 20:00)
- Sunday: 09:30–17:00
Ticket prices & booking
- Standard adult tickets start from €30 when booked online in advance.
- Combo options include Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours, Jameson Distillery bundles and Dublin Pass packages for savings of up to 50%.
- Advance booking secures preferred time slots and helps avoid queues, particularly during peak season.
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Accessibility
Wheelchair ramps, lifts and accessible toilets are available throughout the Storehouse, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
Transportation & parking
- By foot: Approximately a 40-minute walk from O’Connell Street to St. James’s Gate.
- By bus: Dublin Bus routes 13, 40 and 123 serve the brewery directly.
- By Luas: Luas Red Line to Heuston Station, followed by a 10-minute walk.
- Parking: Limited on-site paid parking; nearby street parking and multi-storey car parks available.
Nearby attractions
Extend your Dublin itinerary with nearby points of interest:
- Jameson Distillery Bow St. – Guided whiskey tours and tastings just 12 minutes away.
- The Little Museum of Dublin – Charming social history museum located 1.5 miles from St. James’s Gate.
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Iconic medieval cathedral within walking distance.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Guinness enthusiast, the Storehouse promises an immersive adventure that captures the heart and soul of Ireland’s most famous beer.
