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Old Bushmills Distillery: A Taste of Irish History

Discover the legendary Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, and experience centuries of Irish whiskey heritage.

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The Old Bushmills Distillery, nestled in the village of Bushmills, County Antrim, is the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, dating back to 1608. Experience the time-honored traditions of Irish whiskey making with a tour of the distillery, sample award-winning whiskeys, and explore the grounds where this iconic spirit has been crafted for centuries.

A brief summary to Old Bushmills Distillery

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak season.
  • Children under 8 are welcome on site, but are not permitted on the guided tours.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and stairs.
  • Allow ample time to explore the gift shop and purchase exclusive distillery releases.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Giant's Causeway and other Causeway Coast attractions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Belfast, take the M2 and A26 towards Coleraine, then follow the A2 towards Bushmills. The distillery is located on Distillery Road, just outside Bushmills town center. Free parking is available on site. Note that the drive from Belfast is approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Belfast, take the Translink bus service 221 directly to Bushmills. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the bus stop in Bushmills, it is a short walk to the distillery. Alternatively, take the train from Belfast to Coleraine, then transfer to the Translink bus service 402 to Bushmills. This journey takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. A single bus fare from Belfast to Bushmills is approximately £10-£15.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in nearby towns such as Portrush and Coleraine. A taxi from Coleraine to the Old Bushmills Distillery will cost approximately £20-£30 and take around 15 minutes. From Portrush, a taxi will cost approximately £15-£25 and take around 10 minutes.

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Discover more about Old Bushmills Distillery

Steeped in history and nestled on the banks of the River Bush, the Old Bushmills Distillery offers a captivating journey into the world of Irish whiskey. Officially established in 1784 by Hugh Anderson, the distillery's legacy stretches back to 1608, when King James I granted a license to distill in the area. This rich heritage has solidified Bushmills as a cornerstone of Irish whiskey craftsmanship. A tour of the distillery unveils the meticulous process of creating Bushmills' distinctively smooth whiskey. Witness the traditional methods, from the sourcing of the finest raw materials and the unique mineral profile of the water drawn from Saint Columb's Rill, to the triple distillation process in copper pot stills. Explore the maturation rooms, where the whiskey ages in oak casks, developing its complex flavors. After the tour, indulge in a tasting session to sample a selection of Bushmills' finest creations, from the signature Bushmills Original to the award-winning single malts. Visit the 1608 Bar and savor the rich aromas and full-bodied flavors that have made Bushmills a world-renowned Irish whiskey. The distillery shop offers exclusive releases, personalized bottles, and unique gifts for whiskey enthusiasts. While at the distillery, visitors can explore the terrain and meet the people that safeguard centuries of knowledge. The distillery also has a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a menu that blends Italian-inspired cuisine with the best locally sourced ingredients.

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