Did you know that there’s a distillery producing “Titanic” whiskey in Belfast? Based in the heart of the Maritime Mile, where the Titanic once stood, is Thompson Dock and Pumphouse – the home of Titanic Distillers, a distillery that loves exceptional whiskey, made with patience and a passion for a job well done! The distillery plans to open its doors to the public soon… but in the meantime, you can only admire it from the outside!
Access to the Titanic Distillers – © Tourism Ireland. Chris Hill Photographic
Titanic Distillers, located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, represents a significant revival of the whisky tradition in this historic city. After almost 90 years without whisky distillation in Belfast since Prohibition, Titanic Distillers opened its doors in 2023, reviving this heritage with the establishment of its distillery in the historic setting of Thompson Dock and the Pumphouse, the birthplace of the famous Titanic ship.
The project, described as a work of passion by Titanic Distillers director Stephen Symington, involved over five years of planning and negotiations around the listed Pumphouse building.
The aim was to create both a new tourist destination for Belfast and, more significantly, to bring whisky distilling back to the city.
To achieve this, the distillery has retained the original equipment and historical characteristics of Pumphouse, while introducing new distillation techniques.
It houses three Forsyth stills for the production of single malt whisky, located on a mezzanine overlooking the old Gwynne pumping machinery in the pump well.
This fusion of old and new underlines Titanic Distillers’ commitment to preserving history while innovating in spirits production.
With whisky production having officially begun, head distiller Damien Rafferty expressed his enthusiasm for creating a whisky that embodies local pride and is destined for global recognition.
Indeed, Titanic Distillers aspires to produce world-class spirits, focusing on carefully selected ingredients and experimenting with different yeasts and barrel types for aging. The distillery also intends to launch gins and poitíns made in Belfast.
Located in the heart of the Titanic district, just a stone’s throw from the Titanic Belfast Experience, Titanic Distillers is a rather discreet distillery, but one that never ceases to produce critically acclaimed quality whiskey.
And the good news is that you can now visit the site on two separate guided tours:
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery, from the selection of ingredients, through their treatment in the stills, to distillation and casking.
Tastings are even available to introduce you to Irish whiskey.
And although whiskey is king here, the distillery also produces premium vodka… An atypical choice, far from other distilleries more accustomed to producing whiskey and gin (very fashionable these days).
Whatever the case, the atmosphere here is incredible and steeped in history. This is where the Titanic’s past, the tradition of distillation and modern technology come together.
The 100% industrial, maritime atmosphere will immerse you in a setting reminiscent of the Titanic, the White Star Line, and Belfast’s long maritime and port history.
You’ll discover the vats and stills, as well as the main stages of production… all accompanied by a passionate guide who will answer all your questions.
A fascinating visit, which inevitably ends with a visit to the distillery store, where you can buy their merchandising: clothes, goodies, souvenir gifts… There’s plenty to choose from!
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