The Narcissistic Expat Diaries: From Iowa to Ireland: Guinness Storehouse

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Guinness Storehouse

In our first few weeks in Dublin, we wanted to enjoy the tourist experience while we were still fresh. One of the most popular tourist locations in Dublin is, of course, the Guinness Storehouse. Guinness if famously brewed in Dublin (and other places, now...) and many visitors make it a point to visit this holy beer ground before they head home. We made a trip to the West part of the main city to see what it was all about.

We're getting closer...

View Larger Map

We walked from City Centre to get to the storehouse and museum. I was hoping to see some of the brewing operation, but this isn't a brewery tour. This tour is more of a museum to beer, specifically the god of Guinness.

Frog poses in front to the entrance to the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland

Frog at the Gates

Arthur Guinness signed a lease of the land upon which the brewery now sits with the City of Dublin in 1759 for 9000 years at 45 pounds per year. Now that's a deal. Guinness sits on a HUGE chunk of desirable urban land adjacent to the river for a measly 45 pounds per year, adjusted to Euros, but not to inflation. The lease is on display under the floor near the entrance. Despite being older than the American Declaration of Independence, it is in much better shape and is much more legible. Storage does make a difference, it seems.

We went through several floors of Guinness-related exhibits. Production, barrel-making, advertising, branding, pouring, and drinking all warranted attention. Highlights for us were the Guinness pouring demonstration (not just dumped into a glass like most draft beers!) and the free-pint-with-your-entrance-ticket served at the Gravity Bar on the top floor. The bar affords the guest a wide view of the city of Dublin from one of the highest points in the city.

Photo Gallery: