Guiness - more than a museum! (Guiness Brewery)

Member Name: SilkCutSilver

Product:	Guiness Brewery
Date:	02/02/09 (35 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Interactive displays, stunning design, really informative

Disadvantages: Bit pricey

The Guiness Storehouse (as it is known) is one of Dublins premier tourist attractions. A former brewery and part of the huge St James' Gate complex it sits on the west side of the City, production here stopped in the 1980's and the storehouse was reopened as a museum in time for the Millenium celebrations.

We travelled to the museum by tram and found the five minute walk from the tram stop easy if slightly confusing (there is a sign, then no sign etc). We were warned there are usually queues to get the the museum but were behind only around ten other visitors. Entry costs 15 euros which feels steep, but discounts can be gained by investing in a Dublin Pass which is 33 euros and gives you entry to many attractions, or by booking online which allows you a 10% discount as well as a queue jumper.

On entry to the museum you are greeted by a member of Guiness staff who explains the tour is self guided. You are given a map and a ticket which can be exchanged for oyur free print of Guiness in the Gravity Bar at the top of the building.


The building itself is seven stories with a central glass atrium designed by the architects during the renovation to be in the shape of a Guiness glass. On the first floor you see the ingredients of Guiness, with the smells of each ingredient pumped into the area so you can experience the making of the iconic beer. The water display is spectatcular with a waterfall fountain and plenty of information about the origin of the magic ingredient in Guiness. The next floor shows you the process, with a chance to taste the toasted malt and read about Arther Guiness' special way of brewing.The next floor is the tasting lab which tells the story of the master brewers of Guiness and the modern scientists and technologists who now work at Guiness. You also get a chance to taste the beer here. Upper floors are devoted to advertising (a real highlight is a chance to view the iconic TV ads through the decades), the storage and transport of Guiness through the ages. The Choice Zone explains how to cure a hangover, shows you what happens to your body when you drink and other interesting facts.

One floor was closed as an exhibition on 250 years of Guiness was bieng prepared which was a shame. But the story of the building itself which is explained around the central staircase is fascinating. A small exhibition to the artist who designed the classic Toucan adverts is also available on the upper floors as well as a bar and restaurant serving Guiness related emals. There is also a coffee bar for refreshments and well located toilets on each floor.

The top floor is the Guiness Gravity Bar which serves your complimentary pint (or soft drinks if desired - but please, get a grip!) and provides almost 360 views of Dubloin with landmarks pointed out and literary quotes on the glass. The bar has a lovely atmosphere with everyone holidaymakers enjoying their drink.

The building itself is stunning, and the design of the museum could not be more complementary with old and new sitting together in harmony. Lots of the old brewing equipment has been adjusted to embed modern flatscreens within it to show images and the interactive points are really fun - especially the one where you get to take a photo of yourself and send it to your friends. There is the obligatory gift shop with plenty of overpriced merchandise to buy as a souvenir.

This museum was fantastic and more then exceeded my expectations, the 15 euros was well worth it and it more than made our trip to Dublin all the more special.

Summary: Strongly recommended -don't go to Dublin without going here