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Museum · Kilkenny, Kilkenny
Smithwick's Experience
Exhibition in the former Smithwick's brewery, founded in 1710 beside the ruins of St Francis Abbey, about the history of Kilkenny's red ale and the monks who brewed beer there.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Smithwick's Experience
Smithwick's brewery was founded in 1710 by John Smithwick beside the ruins of St Francis Abbey, a 13th-century Franciscan convent where, according to tradition, the friars had already brewed beer. It was one of Ireland's oldest operating breweries until 2013, when production moved to Dublin. The following year, the old fermentation house on Parliament Street was opened as an exhibition.
The visit is guided and goes through rooms with sets and projections that tell the story of the brewery, the Smithwick family and the town, from the Franciscan friars to the 20th century. The explanation shows the ingredients and the brewing process for the red ale, the style associated with Kilkenny.
At the end there is a tasting for adults, which can be exchanged for a non-alcoholic drink. Beer is presented as part of the town's history and economy.
At the rear of the former brewery, the ruins of St Francis Abbey, with its tower and seven-light window, sit on land being redeveloped into a neighborhood, and can be seen from the riverbank.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour including the guided tour.
Best time
In the late afternoon, after the Medieval Mile, or on a rainy day. Tours depart at fixed times; book in summer.
How to get there
It is on Parliament Street, in central Kilkenny, a 10-minute walk from the castle, on the Medieval Mile.
Tip
Reserve a time online in summer. After the visit, walk to the edge of the Nore to see the ruins of St Francis Abbey.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Smithwick's Experience
Is beer still made there?
No. Production moved to Dublin in 2013, and the old fermentation house became an exhibit in 2014.
Can people who don't drink alcohol visit?
Yes. The visit is about the history of the brewery and the town, and the tasting can be exchanged for a non-alcoholic drink.
Is the visit guided?
Yes, at fixed times and with limited groups. Book in summer.