Pearse Lyons Distillery, Dublin - a guinness sign in front of a brick building
1 / 10

Pearse Lyons Distillery Dublin

4.7
·1k reviews·, Ireland

Experience Irish whiskey in a 17th-century church! Unique tours, tastings, and a captivating speakeasy atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pearse Lyons Distillery, Dublin - a guinness sign in front of a brick building

Pearse Lyons Distillery Dublin

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Irish whiskey in a 17th-century church! Unique tours, tastings, and a captivating speakeasy atmosphere.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A truly unique Dublin experience, stepping into a historic church for whiskey."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for securing your spot on popular tours and tastings, especially during peak season.

⛪ Unique Church Ambiance

Experience the charm of a distillery housed in a historic church – a truly unique Dublin spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Church Setting

The Historic Church Setting

Main Distillery Hall

Step into a beautifully restored 17th-century church, offering a unique and atmospheric backdrop for your distillery experience.

TikTok
Guided Distillery Tour

Guided Distillery Tour

Throughout the Distillery

Discover the craft of Irish whiskey making, from grain to glass, in this working distillery.

Reddit
Whiskey Tasting Experience

Whiskey Tasting Experience

Tasting Room

Sample a selection of Pearse Lyons' finest whiskeys, learning about their distinct flavor profiles.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Unique Experiences

Pearse Lyons Distillery offers more than just tours; consider their food-pairing experiences or afternoon tea for a truly memorable visit. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for these specialized sessions, as they can fill up quickly. TikTok

Embrace the Speakeasy Vibe

This distillery is housed in a historic church, giving it a unique speakeasy atmosphere that many visitors rave about. Arrive ready to be charmed by the ambiance and the stories behind the spirits. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Speakeasy vibe, live music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My favourite bar/restaurant in Dublin, a 17th century hidden gem 💎 #church #hiddengems #bar #secretspot #dublin #visitdublin #exploreireland #favoriteplace #irishtiktok #irishmusic #irishdance
@sylwia.with.a.w
28.1K likes • 583.5K views

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for securing your spot on popular tours and tastings, especially during peak season. Reddit+1

⛪ Unique Church Ambiance

Experience the charm of a distillery housed in a historic church – a truly unique Dublin spot. TikTok

My first ever Speakeasy and of course had to do it in Dublin 🇮🇪 ##irelandtiktok##ireland🇨🇮##speakeasy##touristattraction##mustdo
@trinetteleigh
27.9K likes • 348K views
where to find the best coffee shops & bakeries in Dublin 🇮🇪 Dublin's coffee, bakery, and brunch scene has leveled up in recent years, bringing its morning game on par with other European cities like C...
@meganarztravels
24.1K likes • 273.6K views

🥃 Consider Food Pairings

Elevate your tasting with expertly curated food pairings for a richer sensory experience. TikTok

🎶 Check for Live Music

Some evenings feature live Irish music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. TikTok

How to spend a day in Dublin 🇮🇪 These are some of my fave free things to do in Dublin - save for future trip planning!! * What to do in Dublin | Dublin Secret Spots | Dublin activities | Dublin trave...
@cz_phones_home
15.5K likes • 402K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for securing your spot on popular tours and tastings, especially during peak season. Reddit+1

⛪ Unique Church Ambiance

Experience the charm of a distillery housed in a historic church – a truly unique Dublin spot. TikTok

🥃 Consider Food Pairings

Elevate your tasting with expertly curated food pairings for a richer sensory experience. TikTok

🎶 Check for Live Music

Some evenings feature live Irish music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Pearse Lyons Distillery for its stunning and unique setting within a historic church, offering a charming speakeasy atmosphere. The guided tours are informative and engaging, though opinions on the whiskey itself are mixed, with some preferring other Dublin distilleries. The food-pairing experiences and afternoon tea are highlighted as special additions.

"This was an amazing tour. The fact it is in a renovated church adds a unique aspect to this tour. I loved hearing the history of the founders, the church, and the restoration process.
The actual whiskey making part of the tour is what you would expect to hear from a whiskey tour (not too many different ways to add flair when all whiskeys pretty much start the same).
I enjoyed this whiskey more than others in Dublin. I actually brought some back for my brother since he is a big whisky fan!
Karoline was an amazing guide. She was very knowledgeable and very receptive to questions.
I will definitely be recommending this tour to anyone going to Dublin!"

Jennifer Landreneau

"The best distillery in town, and my personal favourite whiskey. They created a lovely distillery and shop in a former church and the esthetic result is beautiful. They are also really kind and explicative. I still remember the kind polish girl at the exit."

Diego Avanzato

"The heart of this distillery is a church that has been meticulously restored and beautifully converted into a production facility for spirits. The location is historic. Staff are friendly and informative. I'm not a serious whiskey drinker but this visit and tour were a pleasant surprise."

Mike Santella

What People Like

Historic church setting
Unique speakeasy vibe
Informative tours

What People Dislike

Whiskey taste debated

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pearse Lyons Distillery is located in Dublin 8. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also an option, taking around 20-30 minutes. TikTok

Street parking can be limited in the area. It's often more convenient to use public transport or a taxi. If driving, research nearby car parks in advance. TikTok

From Dublin Airport, you can take a bus (e.g., Aircoach or Dublin Express) to the city center and then transfer to a local bus or walk. Taxis are also readily available. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, booking your tour and tasting tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for specific experiences like food pairings, as they often sell out. Reddit+1

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

A typical guided tour and tasting session lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the package chosen. Reddit

Yes, Pearse Lyons offers various experiences, including standard distillery tours, whiskey tastings, and specialized food-pairing sessions. TikTok

While tours are the primary way to experience the distillery, they may have a bar or tasting area open to the public at certain times. It's best to confirm this directly with the distillery. TikTok

🍽️ 🥃 Whiskey & Dining

Pearse Lyons Distillery focuses on crafting Irish whiskey, offering a range of single malts and blends. Reddit

Opinions vary, with some finding it excellent and others suggesting alternatives like Teeling. It's a matter of personal taste, and a tasting is the best way to decide. Reddit+1

Yes, you can purchase bottles of Pearse Lyons whiskey directly from their on-site shop after your tour and tasting. TikTok

The distillery features a bar and tasting room, and they also offer unique dining experiences like afternoon tea and food-pairing sessions. TikTok+1

Beyond whiskey pairings, they offer afternoon tea and sometimes light bites. Check their website for current menus and offerings. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Absolutely! The historic church setting, unique architecture, and beautifully presented whiskeys make it a very photogenic spot. TikTok

Its location in a consecrated church offers a distinct atmosphere, and many find the tour more personal and engaging than larger, more commercial operations. Reddit

The intimate atmosphere, unique setting, and sophisticated whiskey tasting make it a great choice for a date night or special occasion. TikTok

Yes, they often feature live traditional Irish music, especially during evening events, adding to the authentic Dublin experience. TikTok

It's often described as having a speakeasy feel, with a blend of historical charm, a working distillery, and a welcoming atmosphere. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Pearse Lyons Distillery is primarily an adult-focused experience due to the whiskey tasting, families can still find enjoyment. The unique setting in a historic church is visually captivating for all ages. TikTok Consider booking the afternoon tea experience, which is generally more family-friendly than a whiskey tasting. Ensure children are supervised at all times, and check with the distillery about any age restrictions for specific tours or areas. TikTok

🥂 Couples & Date Nights

Pearse Lyons Distillery offers a wonderfully romantic and unique setting for a date. The intimate atmosphere of the historic church, combined with a sophisticated whiskey tasting or a delightful afternoon tea, creates a memorable experience. TikTok The speakeasy vibe and the potential for live Irish music add to the charm, making it an ideal spot for a special evening out. TikTok

✈️ Day-Trippers & Sightseers

For those on a short visit to Dublin, Pearse Lyons Distillery provides a distinct cultural and historical experience that stands out from typical tourist attractions. TikTok Its central location makes it relatively easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. Booking a tour in advance is crucial to maximize your time and ensure you don't miss out on this unique Dublin gem. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Setting: A Distillery in a Church

Pearse Lyons Distillery stands out due to its remarkable location within a beautifully restored 17th-century church. This isn't just a historical building; it's a consecrated space that adds a layer of solemnity and unique character to the whiskey-making process. The blend of spiritual heritage and the craft of distillation creates an unforgettable atmosphere that visitors consistently praise. TikTok The architecture itself is a draw, with many travelers capturing stunning photos of the interior, highlighting the juxtaposition of stained glass windows and copper stills. TikTok

This unconventional setting contributes to the distillery's intimate and somewhat secretive 'speakeasy' vibe, making it feel like a hidden gem. TikTok Unlike more modern facilities, the church provides a sense of history and tradition that resonates with the story of Irish whiskey. It’s a place where you can truly feel connected to Dublin’s past while experiencing a contemporary craft. Reddit

Whiskey Experiences: Beyond the Standard Tour

While the guided tour offers a comprehensive look at the whiskey-making process, Pearse Lyons Distillery excels in offering specialized tasting experiences. These go beyond a simple pour, often involving expertly curated food pairings that enhance the nuances of their spirits. TikTok Visitors can explore how different flavors complement or contrast with the whiskey, creating a multi-sensory journey. Reddit

For those seeking a more refined experience, the distillery also offers afternoon tea, blending traditional Irish hospitality with their signature spirits. TikTok This unique offering caters to a broader audience, providing a sophisticated way to enjoy the distillery's offerings. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or a curious newcomer, these enhanced experiences provide a deeper appreciation for the craft and the Pearse Lyons brand. Reddit

Community Opinions: Pearse Lyons vs. Other Distilleries

When it comes to choosing a distillery in Dublin, Pearse Lyons often comes up in discussions alongside Teeling and Jameson. While Jameson offers a more commercial, museum-like experience, and Teeling is a working distillery with its own historical narrative, Pearse Lyons holds a special place for many due to its unique setting and more intimate feel. Reddit Some travelers find Pearse Lyons to be a more engaging and memorable experience than other options. Reddit

However, opinions on the whiskey itself can be divided. Some reviewers find the Pearse Lyons whiskey to be less impressive compared to its competitors, with some suggesting Teeling or the Irish Whiskey Museum as better alternatives for the spirits. Reddit Despite this, the overall experience, atmosphere, and the unique church setting are frequently cited as reasons to visit, making it a worthwhile stop for many, even if the whiskey isn't everyone's top pick. Reddit+1

You may also like

1 of 2