The saying goes in Ireland, you’re either a Jameson or a Bushmills person. So which are you?
In reality, both are iconic Irish whiskey brands known worldwide but today we’re going to dig into where Bushmills Whiskey originates from.
If you’re a big fan of whiskey and you’re planning to visit Northern Ireland then a visit to Bushmills Distillery should be on your agenda.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about where Bushmills Distillery is located, give you some hints and tips to maximise your trip and also give a few facts about Bushmills, so we’re hoping you’ll have all the information you need by the end of it!
Where is Bushmills Distillery?
We’ll get straight to the point and tell you that Bushmills Distillery is located in Bushmills, County Antrim in the northern part of Northern Ireland. If you happen to be stopping in Belfast then you can head north for around 1 hour (58 miles) which will get you to the distillery.
You can head direct, via motorway, or take the longer, slower route along the Causeway Coastal Route. The second option takes longer, but we don’t think you’ll regret it.
Interesting Facts about Bushmills Distillery
- The distillery is a popular tourist attraction which sees around 120,000 people visiting it every year
- A Royal licence was granted to distill whiskey in the area as early as 1608, however, the company that built the distillery was formed in 1784
- The distillery has been in continuous operation since 1885, and was last out of operation due to fire damage
- There are currently eight different types of Bushmills whiskey available on the market to buy
- Bushmills is the oldest licenced distillery in the world (based on the 1608 date)
Visiting the Bushmills Distillery
To help you plan your trip to the Bushmills distillery we have provided a series of hints and tips to help you maximise your trip:
- When visiting the distillery there are two different types of tours available; the distillery tour which provides a walking tour of the working core of the distillery, and the premium tour and tasting which also provides the walking tour and gives you the opportunity to enjoy premium whiskey tasting
- The price of the distillery tour is £15 per person and it’s £40 per person for the premium tour
- There is a gift shop at the distillery which is open seven days a week, with opening times from 10am to 4.45pm Mon-Sat and 11.30am – 4.45pm on Sundays
- There is also a distillery kitchen and café on site, however it is best to check in advance whether this will be open as on occasions it has to close for planned maintenance
- You will not be allowed to take any children under the age of 8 years old on the distillery tour and anybody under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Children under 18 aren’t allowed to accompany adults into the premium tasting session
- It is advisable if you’re planning on visiting with a group of over 12 people to book in advance to avoid disappointment
- It is well worth paying for a guided tour because you’ll learn so much about the history of the Bushmills Distillery and be able to ask questions as you make your way around
- The tour will last approximately one hour
- Parts of the tour are outside and can be slippy when wet, so if it does rain take care when navigating the outside parts of the distillery
- You are not permitted to take photos on the tour
- Phones are also not allowed out of bags/pockets whilst on the tour
As you can see there is a great opportunity to visit the oldest licenced distillery in the world when visiting the Emerald Isle.
Staying near Bushmills Distillery
If you haven’t firmed up a place to stay during your trip, why not try a place that’s in close proximity to Bushmills Distillery to avoid having to travel for your day trip.
The entire Causeway Coast area is brimming with options from hotels to self-catering, tiny little B&Bs to boutique guest houses, but a few notable options include:
- The Bushmills Inn: an excellent choice and rated as a four-star accommodation. A former Coaching Inn in the 1600’s this historical place to stay is within easy reach of Bushmills Distillery, the Giants Causeway and Dunluce castle.
- Walkmill Holiday Cottages: designed for you to have as a base and be in charge of your holiday. Again, this accommodation offers great access to local tourist attractions so you won’t be disappointed.
- The Old Dairy Villa: perfect if you want to be close to the touristy places but be able to enjoy golf and live performances which are offered at this accommodation. It’s also located near to Bushmills Distillery so you will have no problems getting to your day trip on time.
As we said at the beginning, you’ll probably sample both Bushmills and Jameson on your journey around Ireland.
Time to decide which you prefer…
