St Francis Abbey Brewery is a magnificent Irish abbey founded in 1231. Although abandoned during the reign of Elizabeth I, the abbey is now in ruins. As early as the 18th century, the abbey was used as a brewery: today, Smithwick’s still brews its beers close to the building!
If you’re a fan of Irish beer, don’t miss St Francis Abbey, an ecclesiastical building where Smithwick’s has been brewing its beers since 1710. Kilkenny and Smithwick’s, 2 great beers distributed in Ireland and around the world (Kilkenny being the most famous), are produced here.
Today, the church building is open to visitors, although it is partially occupied by the brewery (only the nave and choir are part of the brewery). Nearby, you can make out the modern buildings dedicated to brewery production. The sacristy and an oratory were also restored for the brewery.
In any case, the abbey is magnificent, with its main tower intact, and many of its fronts and walls still in place. Don’t miss the abbey’s mullioned window: it occupies almost the entire gable and must have been magnificent in its day.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Kilkenny town center, Kilkenny (County Kilkenny) - Republic of Ireland
52.655603, -7.254164
45 minutes
Here are a few useful places to stay so you can extend your trip and stay close to the sights you want to visit.
