Experience the Rich Heritage of Old Bushmills Distillery
Discover the heritage and craftsmanship of Irish whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in the world.
The Old Bushmills Distillery, established in 1608, stands as one of the oldest licensed distilleries in the world and is a cornerstone of Irish whiskey heritage. Located in the quaint village of Bushmills, this historic site invites tourists to delve into the fascinating world of whiskey production. Visitors can embark on guided tours that take them through the distillation process, showcasing the traditional methods that have been perfected over centuries. The aroma of maturing whiskey fills the air as you explore the vast barrels and the stunning architecture of the distillery itself. What makes the Old Bushmills Distillery particularly appealing is not just its age but the rich flavors of its whiskey. Tour participants are treated to tastings, allowing them to savor the unique characteristics of various expressions, from the smooth Original Bushmills to the complex aged varieties. The knowledgeable guides share stories and insights about the distillery’s history, the significance of its location near the River Bush, and the craftsmanship that defines Irish whiskey. Beyond the tours, the distillery features a charming visitor center that includes a shop where you can purchase exclusive bottlings and souvenirs. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a curious traveler, a visit to the Old Bushmills Distillery offers an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. The surrounding area, with its rolling hills and proximity to the stunning Causeway Coast, further enhances the allure of this remarkable destination.
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure your spot.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.
- Don’t miss the tasting session; it's a great way to experience the variety of whiskeys offered.
- Check the distillery's website for any special events or limited-time offers.
- Allow some time to explore the charming village of Bushmills after your visit.
A brief summary to Old Bushmills Distillery
- 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills, BT57 8XH, GB
- +442820733218
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Car
To reach Old Bushmills Distillery by car, start from Belfast. Head northwest on the A12, then take the M2 motorway towards Londonderry. Follow the M2 until it merges with the A26. Continue on the A26, then take the A5 towards Ballymena. From Ballymena, take the A43 towards Bushmills. Once you arrive in Bushmills, follow the signs for the distillery, which is located at 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills BT57 8XH. The distillery is well-signposted and has a parking lot available for visitors.
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Public Transportation
If you're traveling by public transport, take a bus from Belfast to Coleraine. You can catch a bus from the Europa Bus Centre in Belfast. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive at Coleraine Bus Station, transfer to the 172 bus that goes directly to Bushmills. The bus ride from Coleraine to Bushmills takes around 30 minutes. Disembark at the Bushmills stop, and from there, it's a short 15-minute walk to Old Bushmills Distillery located at 2 Distillery Rd, Bushmills BT57 8XH.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from locations around Northern Ireland. From Belfast, the taxi ride to Old Bushmills Distillery will take approximately 1 hour and cost around £50-£70. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. If you're in Coleraine, the taxi ride will be shorter, around 20 minutes, and should cost about £15-£20.
Attractions Nearby to Old Bushmills Distillery
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chaussée des geants
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Millennium Park Bushmills
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Alphabet Angel - Ulster-Scots statue
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Bushmills Visitor Information Centre (Seasonal Opening March-October)
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carrick bridge
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Giants Causeway & Bushmills Heritage Railway
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Three Quarter bridge
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Runkerry Beach
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Ulster Way / Causeway Coast Way
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Salmon Rock Beach
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Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
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National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
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Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
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Portcoon Jetty
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The Gajowy cave
Landmarks nearby to Old Bushmills Distillery
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Giants Causeway Carpark
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National Trust - White Park Bay
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Whitepark Bay viewpoint
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Causeway Coastal Route
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The Dark Hedges
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National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
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National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
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National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
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Merrick Stone
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Moville Shore Path Walk, Inishowen
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Culdaff Beach
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The Temple of Deen
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American Monument
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Whitebay
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Carraig Fhada Lighthouse