If you’re a fan of craft beer or whiskey, then Belfast is the place to be. The city is home to some of the most famous breweries and distilleries in the world, and a visit to these iconic locations is a must for anyone visiting Northern Ireland. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best breweries and distilleries in Belfast and what makes them so special.
- Hilden Brewery
Located just a short drive from Belfast, the Hilden Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in Ireland and has been producing award-winning craft beers since 1981. The brewery is located in the historic village of Hilden, and the building itself dates back to the early 19th century.
The brewery offers tours and tastings where you can learn about the brewing process and sample some of their delicious beers. Some of their most popular brews include the Headless Dog, an Irish stout with hints of coffee and chocolate, and the Twisted Hop, an American-style IPA with a fruity and citrusy taste.
- The Belfast Distillery Company
The Belfast Distillery Company is the city’s first legal distillery in over 75 years and has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Belfast. The distillery is located in the heart of the city and offers tours where you can learn about the history of Irish whiskey and see the distilling process in action.
The Belfast Distillery Company produces a range of premium Irish whiskeys, including the Titanic Blend, which is a tribute to the city’s most famous ship. The blend is a combination of malt and grain whiskeys that are aged in bourbon casks, giving it a smooth and mellow taste.
- The Old Bushmills Distillery
While not technically located in Belfast, the Old Bushmills Distillery is just a short drive away and is one of the most famous distilleries in the world. The distillery has been producing whiskey for over 400 years and is the oldest licensed distillery in the world.
The distillery offers tours where you can learn about the whiskey-making process and sample some of their award-winning whiskeys, including the Black Bush, a blend of single malt and aged grain whiskey, and the 10-year-old Single Malt, which is aged for a minimum of 10 years in oak casks.
- Boundary Brewing
Boundary Brewing is a craft brewery located in the trendy Cathedral Quarter of Belfast. The brewery was founded in 2014 and has quickly become one of the most popular craft breweries in Northern Ireland.
Boundary Brewing produces a range of delicious and innovative beers, including their famous IPA and Sour beers. The brewery also offers tours and tastings where you can learn about the brewing process and sample some of their unique brews.
- The Echlinville Distillery
The Echlinville Distillery is a family-owned distillery located on the Ards Peninsula, just a short drive from Belfast. The distillery produces a range of premium spirits, including whiskey, gin, and vodka, using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.
The distillery offers tours and tastings where you can learn about the distilling process and sample some of their award-winning spirits. The distillery’s Dunville’s whiskey range is one of the most popular in Northern Ireland, with the 12-year-old single malt winning multiple awards.
Conclusion
Belfast is a haven for craft beer and whiskey lovers, and a visit to these iconic breweries and distilleries is a must for anyone visiting the city. From the historic Hilden Brewery to the innovative Boundary Brewing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, why not take a tour, learn about the brewing and distilling process, and sample some of the best beers and whiskeys in the world? Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just looking to try something new, these breweries and distilleries offer a unique and unforgettable experience. And the best part? Many of these breweries and distilleries are located just a short drive from Belfast, making it easy to plan a day trip or weekend getaway. So, grab a friend or loved one and set out to explore the delicious world of Irish craft beer an