The Old Bushmills Distillery

Old Bushmills Distillery is a distillery in Northern Ireland, famous for its Bushmills whiskey. Located in the heart of the village of the same name, this distillery is the must-see tourist attraction in the area. Here you’ll discover the secrets behind the making of this whiskey so beloved by whiskey lovers!

History of Bushmills Distillery

The oldest distillery in the world!

A bottle of Bushmills whiskey – © monticellllo – stock.adobe.com

Any local will tell you with pride: the Bushmills distillery is the oldest official distillery in the world. With an official license obtained in April 1608, the company has been making whiskey ever since. Today, it is the last distillery still in operation in Northern Ireland…

Before obtaining an official license, the distillery is said to have been producing whiskey illegally since the 12th century. History even has it that in 1276, Robert Savage, the town’s owner, had his troops drink the distilled beverage to give them strength and courage. The Book of Leinster, written in 1490, also mentions a local spirit served only in the town of Bushmills…

In 1885, the distillery was unfortunately devastated by a violent fire. It was finally rebuilt in a purely Scottish style, equipped with malting kiln chimneys, and abandoned its production of Irish pot stills to devote itself to single malts.

Success followed, and in 1923 the distillery was bought by Samuel Boyd, a Northern Irish merchant. In 1972, it joined the Irish spirits group Irish Distillers, then became a subsidiary of Diageo.

Visit Bushmills Distillery

Enter the heart of a well-oiled machine…

Old Bushmills Distillery shop – © Dawid

The Old Bushmills Distillery is open to the public, and offers a full guided tour of its premises. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the whiskey-making process, including its vats and giant copper stills.

Explanations are clear and entertaining, illustrated with videos and illustrations. A tasting session is then offered by the guide, as well as a visit to a small store where you can take away a bottle or two of whiskey if you feel like it… The range includes 4 wash stills and 5 spirit stills, all produced on site.

The on-site staff will be happy to advise you if necessary.