If you’re into craft beer or simply curious about how that perfect pint is made, the Kildare Brewing Company Guided Brewery Tour offers a great way to peek behind the scenes. Situated in the charming village of Sallins, County Kildare, this experience blends education, sensory delights, and a bit of Irish storytelling into a compact one-hour adventure.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to see the actual brewing process up close, learn about the company’s journey, and sample their distinctive brews—all within a friendly, small-group setting. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is fairly short, so if you’re after a lengthy in-depth experience, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, for those wanting a fun, authentic taste of Irish craft beer culture, it hits the mark.
This experience is best suited for curious travelers, beer lovers, or anyone wanting a quick yet insightful look into Irish brewing—plus, it’s wheelchair accessible and perfect for small groups. Just remember, it’s not ideal for children under 18 or pregnant women, and you’ll want comfortable shoes for the tour.
Key Points
- Authentic insight into the brewing process and history of Kildare Brewing Company
- Interactive experience with touching, smelling, and understanding key ingredients
- Tasting session featuring signature and seasonal beers that tell their own stories
- Exclusive discounts on merchandise and beer to take home
- Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for a more personalized experience
- Accessible for wheelchairs, with clear start and end points at Lock 13 Brewpub
What You Can Expect from the Kildare Brewing Company Guided Tour
The tour begins right at the Lock 13 Brewpub, located in the picturesque village of Sallins. As you arrive, a member of staff will greet you and escort you to the starting point—making the whole process seamless and welcoming. From the outset, it’s clear that this experience is designed to be friendly and engaging, perfect for both beer novices and enthusiasts alike.
The guided tour lasts approximately one hour, during which you’ll learn about the history and evolution of Kildare Brewing Company. The guide, whose name is not specified but is described as lively and knowledgeable, takes you through the entire brewing process. You’ll get to see the equipment, hear stories behind each brew, and understand what makes their beers special.
Touching and Smelling the Ingredients
What sets this tour apart is the hands-on element. You’ll be invited to touch key ingredients like malt, hops, and yeast—giving a tactile dimension that many other brewery tours skip. Smelling these ingredients helps clarify why certain beers have their distinctive aroma and flavor profiles. This sensory engagement makes the experience more memorable and practical, especially for those new to craft beer.
Behind the Scenes of the Brewing Process
Seeing the actual brewing equipment in action is a highlight. You’ll learn about the different steps involved, from mashing and fermenting to bottling. The guide shares fun stories about their most popular beers, giving a personal touch that makes the process more relatable. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the guide’s narrative about the brewery’s journey made the tour feel like chatting with an old friend rather than a formal presentation.
Tasting Signature and Seasonal Brews
No brewery tour would be complete without sampling the products. During the tasting session, you’ll get to try a selection of signature and seasonal brews. While the specific beers aren’t detailed in the available info, the tasting is described as a chance to savor and appreciate the unique flavors crafted with care to reflect County Kildare’s spirit.
Reviews mention that the tasting “tells the story of each beer,” with some adding that the flavors are “rich” and “well-balanced.” This part of the experience provides a satisfying conclusion and a great opportunity for photos, especially if the brewery has eye-catching labels or a scenic backdrop.
More Great Tours NearbyExclusive Discounts and Relaxation
After the tour and tasting, you’ll have the chance to enjoy exclusive discounts on merchandise and beers, making it worthwhile to purchase a few bottles or branded goodies to take home. The tour ends back at the Lock 13 Brewpub, where you can relax, chat, and soak in the lively pub atmosphere.
Practical Details
Booking and Availability
Tours run for about an hour, with specific starting times that depend on the day. It’s advisable to check availability in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures a more intimate experience, and booking ahead secures your spot.
Accessibility and Transportation
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it inclusive for most visitors. If you’re coming from Dublin, taking the train from Heuston Station is the easiest option—less than a 30-minute ride—making it a perfect day trip. Once in Sallins, just mention your tour at the brewpub, and staff will guide you to the start.
What to Bring and What Not To
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the brewery’s equipment and outdoor areas. Make sure to bring ID, as proof of age is required for alcohol tastings. Pets and smoking are not allowed within the brewery premises.
Cost and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified, the inclusion of a guided tour, tasting, and discounts suggests good value for those interested in Irish craft beer. The small group format and interactive elements add to the worth, especially considering the personal attention and insider stories you’ll gain.
What Reviewers Say
Review snippets highlight the tour’s engaging and friendly vibe. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s storytelling, noting that it made the experience feel personal and authentic. Another mentioned that the touch-and-smell activity made the brewing process much clearer, especially for someone unfamiliar with craft brewing.
A common comment is that the tasting session offers a delightful variety, and the opportunity to buy beer directly from the brewery at a discount is a nice bonus. Visitors also appreciated that the tour ended at a lively pub, perfect for continuing the conversation or grabbing a meal.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts wanting to learn more about Irish brewing traditions, travelers seeking a local experience that combines education with tasting, or those looking for a quick, fun activity during a day in County Kildare. It’s particularly suited for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy engaging, small-group experiences.
It’s less suitable for children or anyone pregnant, and those with food allergies should be aware that any additional food or beer purchased in the pub will be charged separately.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, with specific start times depending on availability.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the brewery is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most guests.
How do I get to the brewery from Dublin?
The most straightforward way is to take the train from Heuston Station; it’s less than a 30-minute trip to Sallins.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended since there’s some standing and potentially outdoor elements.
Are children allowed?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18.
Can I buy beer or merchandise during the tour?
Yes, you can enjoy exclusive discounts on merchandise and beers, perfect for taking home a souvenir.
Is there a dietary restriction I should be aware of?
People with food allergies should note that additional food or drinks outside the tour might be charged separately.
What is included in the price?
The guided brewery tour, hands-on ingredient experience, tasting session, exclusive discounts, and a visit to the pub are included.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since tours are limited to small groups.
To sum it up, the Kildare Brewing Company Guided Brewery Tour offers a genuine chance to learn about Irish craft beer while enjoying a sensory and interactive experience. It balances education with fun tasting, all within a friendly, accessible setting. If you’re after a reasonably priced, engaging activity that captures the spirit of Kildare’s brewing scene, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s perfect for curious travelers, beer lovers, or anyone eager for a quick, authentic taste of Irish craftsmanship.
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