Visitors exploring the city of Kilkenny can add the Smithwicks Experience Kilkenny to their itinerary.
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The popular attraction reopened July 15th.
The ruby red Smithwick’s ale has been brewed in Kilkenny since 1710.
The Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is located in the heart of Ireland’s coolest medieval city, allowing visitors to explore the brewing heritage of the Smithwick family.
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The attraction is located in an old Victorian brewing building on Parliament Street in Kilkenny on a site that was originally settled in the 13th century by Franciscan monks.
For several centuries, the monks had been brewing ale, but in 1537, it was shut down by Henry VIII.
In 1710, a commercial brewery known as Smithwick's was established to brew Irish red ale.
During its expansion in 1854, the nave and chancel of the abbey were discovered within the brewery's grounds.
Visitors can hear the story of the brewery as told by locals while also getting the chance to get involved in the actual brewing process.
A striking new mural has been added to the experience representing the city’s vibrant history and culture, in addition to a new Smithwick’s Flavour Room.
Smithwick’s ales include its Red Ale, a blend of mild hops, sweet malt, and roasted barley, and its Pale Ale, a malt beer that is both fruity and grassy, brewed with aromatic Amarillo hops.
At the end of the tour, guests are treated to a complimentary pint or a soft drink.
Tickets are €18 for adults, €16 for seniors and students over 18, €10 for children ages 7-17, and €45 for a family of 4.
Exploring Medieval Kilkenny
Exploring Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile, a maze of lanes, alleyways, and cobbled streets, is a must for many visitors to the city.
The trail runs from the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle to the beautifully restored 13th-century St Canice’s Cathedral, which overlooks the city.
Along the trail, visitors will discover the Medieval Mile Museum located in the 13th-century St. Mary’s Church.
Visitors will learn about the fascinating history of the church and how it was used for both Catholics and Protestants in the city and see the many artifacts that are housed there, including the remains of three female skeletons discovered in 2016 when the building was being renovated.
The museum can be toured independently with the help of an interactive audio tour.
Tickets for the self-guided tour are €8 for adults, €6.50 for seniors, and €3.50 for children. Family tickets are €22.50 (2 adults and up to 4 children under 16).
Guided tours of the museum are also available, as well as walking tours of the Medieval Mile Trail. Visit the website for more information.
There are plenty of other things to do and see in Kilkenny, a city that contains lively pubs, first-class restaurants, art galleries, and more.
Kilkenny is also a leading destination for high-end Irish arts and crafts, as well as unique and stylish souvenirs that you’ll find at the Kilkenny Design Centre and the National Craft Gallery.