Find the perfect stay near Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a large, seven-storey experience located in the middle of the St. James’s Gate Brewery that tells the tale of Ireland's favourite drink. It is a great place to spend an afternoon because it explains the craft of brewing in a way that is easy to follow and genuinely interesting. You can learn how to pour a perfect pint or simply enjoy the views across the rooftops of Dublin from the top floor. Discovering the history of the black stuff adds a little extra flavour to your time in the city.

You will find this seven-storey attraction at St. James's Gate, where it occupies a converted grain storehouse that dates back to 1904. It is a great place to understand the city's industrial heritage while enjoying views across the skyline from one of the highest points in the area.

Planning your visit and what to expect

The site is open throughout the year, typically starting from 09:30 or 10:00 and closing around 17:00 to 19:00 depending on the day of the week. An entry fee applies to all visitors, and it is highly recommended to book your slot in advance as it is a popular spot. You should allow at least 90 minutes to 2 hours to fully explore the different floors and exhibits.

The building is fully accessible with lifts serving every level, and wheelchairs are available to borrow from the information desk. Because this is a working site and an environment serving alcohol, age restrictions apply for the consumption of drinks, though children are welcome to visit the exhibitions. Please check the official Guinness Storehouse website for the most up-to-date opening times and ticket availability before you travel.

Exploring the floors and unique features

The architecture is a highlight in itself, designed around a massive central glass atrium shaped like a giant pint glass. If filled, this atrium would hold 14.3 million pints of liquid. As you walk through, you will see a mix of heavy industrial machinery and modern interactive displays that show how the four simple ingredients are transformed.

One of the most popular areas is the Gravity Bar, located on the top floor, which offers a 360-degree view of the city. You can also see the famous 9,000-year lease signed by Arthur Guinness, which is displayed behind glass in the floor of the atrium. For those interested in design, there are dedicated sections for creative advertising campaigns that have run for over 80 years.

A look into the past

The brewery was founded in 1759 and has grown to cover over 50 acres of land in the heart of the city. The Storehouse building you are standing in was actually the first multi-storey steel-framed building constructed in Ireland. It served as the fermentation plant for the brewery for nearly 85 years before being reimagined as a visitor centre in 2000.

Throughout the galleries, you will learn about the transport history of the site, including the old narrow-gauge railway and the ships that once sailed the River Liffey. The heritage of the coopers, who handcrafted wooden barrels at a rate of nearly one per hour, is also a central part of the story told within these walls.

Finding your way around the Guinness Storehouse is easy, and you will find plenty of places to stay nearby. There are many ways to reach this part of the city, making your trip simple and stress-free.

Best areas to stay for your visit

The Liberties is the most convenient area to look for a place to stay, as it puts you within a 10-minute walk of the entrance. This neighborhood is known for its traditional character and local charm, offering a mix of stylish boutique hotels and modern apartments. If you prefer a more contemporary feel, Smithfield is located just across the river and is roughly 0.5 miles away. You can find various options here, from budget-friendly hostels to sleek suites with a 24-hour reception and bike rental available. Both areas are great for those who want to explore the city on foot while staying close to the action.

Getting to the storehouse from the city

You can easily reach the site by taking the Luas Red Line to the James's Luas Stop, which is a short 500-foot walk from the gates. If you arrive at Heuston Station, the landmark is only a 10-minute walk away, or you can jump on one of the many local buses that stop within 200 yards of the main building. These transport links run frequently throughout the day, ensuring you can get across the city in under 15 minutes from most central hubs.

Experience the best of Dublin by staying near the Guinness Storehouse. Opodo offers a wide selection of nearby lodgings, allowing you to filter by price and guest ratings to find your ideal match. Pick a great hotel today and start your Dublin trip.