Private Full Day Whiskey Tour from Dublin with Tullamore D.E.W.

Exploring Ireland’s whiskey scene: a detailed look at the private full-day tour from Dublin

If you’re a whiskey enthusiast—or even just someone curious about Irish spirits—this private full-day tour into Ireland’s whiskey heartland might be just what you’re after. Based on glowing reviews, it promises a well-rounded experience that combines visits to historic distilleries, tastings of some of Ireland’s finest whiskeys, and a peek into the country’s rural charm. The fact that it’s private means you get a personalized touch, which often makes the day more enjoyable and relaxed.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to balance educational experiences with entertaining storytelling. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making what could be a rushed commercial tour feel more like visiting friends who happen to work in whiskey. Plus, the itinerary covers both a historic distillery and a modern, state-of-the-art facility—offering a good contrast that appeals to whiskey lovers at all levels.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite a long day, clocking in at around 10 hours. That’s a full schedule with plenty of moving parts, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a more relaxed or flexible experience. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for that, either bringing snacks or planning a stop during free time.

This experience is perfect for those who want a deep dive into Irish whiskey with a private touch, especially if you’re keen on visiting iconic distilleries and historic pubs without the hassle of organizing transport or tours on your own. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, expert guidance, and a scenic countryside backdrop.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with expert guides making the day special
• Visits to iconic distilleries and historic pubs including Kilbeggan, Seans Bar, and Tullamore D.E.W.
• Tastings of multiple whiskeys, including a masterclass at Kilbeggan and a tutored tasting at Tullamore D.E.W.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Dublin in executive vehicles
• All ages over 18 can participate, but ID is likely required for tastings
• Long day of around 10 hours — ideal for dedicated whiskey fans or those with a full day to spare

An in-depth look at the whiskey tour experience

The start: pickup and first impressions

Most travelers start their day around 8:30 am with a pickup from a location of their choice in Dublin. This private setting is a big plus, as you won’t be sharing your experience with strangers. The luxury transport—an executive vehicle—sets the tone for a comfortable, stress-free day. From the start, the guide acts as both driver and storyteller, making the journey engaging and informative.

First stop: Old Kilbeggan Distillery

Your first destination is Kilbeggan, one of Ireland’s oldest distilleries, where you’ll spend approximately an hour and a half. This is more than just a quick peek — it’s a real distillery experience, including a tasting of four Kilbeggan whiskeys. What’s great here is the chance to see whiskey production in its traditional form, right at a historic site that has been a part of Irish life for centuries.

Guests often remark on how much they appreciated the guided experience. One reviewer shared, “We thoroughly enjoyed our whiskey tour with John,” highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides who bring stories and insights to life. Another pointed out the opportunity to taste four different whiskeys at the source, which really adds depth to the experience.

The historic pub: Sean’s Bar

Next, the tour takes you to Seans Bar in Athlone — famously known as Ireland’s oldest pub, and potentially Europe’s oldest. It’s a cozy, nostalgic spot, where you’ll get to sample Sean’s Blend and Sean’s Single Malt. The vibe here is markedly different from the distilleries: warm, inviting, and steeped in history.

Reviewers love the charm of Sean’s Bar, with one describing it as “a place where history and whiskey meet,” and appreciating the opportunity to taste authentic Irish whiskeys in a setting that’s been serving drinks for centuries. It’s a highlight for many, especially those interested in Ireland’s cultural heritage.

The modern marvel: Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery

Your final stop is the Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery, which offers a more contemporary, state-of-the-art experience. The tour here is guided but includes a generous tasting of three Tullamore whiskeys, complemented by Irish coffee upon arrival—a nice touch. You’ll see a warehouse with casks and learn about modern whiskey production techniques.

Guests frequently mention the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the tastings. One reviewer said, “Vivian greeted us in what felt like a beautiful living room and made us a delicious Irish coffee,” emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail. The opportunity to draw a cask from the warehouse for tasting is a real treat for those interested in the aging process.

Wrap-up: what to expect and how it feels

Throughout the day, guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. Many reviews mention the stories and insights shared, which enrich the experience far beyond simple tastings. It’s clear that having a host who loves whiskey and Ireland makes a difference, turning what could be a straightforward tour into a memorable cultural journey.

The logistics: timing, transportation, and value

The tour runs from 8:30 am to roughly 6:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to soak in each location without feeling rushed. The private transportation means you avoid crowded buses and have a flexible schedule. Given the cost of about $473 per person, the value hinges on the quality of the experiences and the personalized service. Including private transport, expert guides, and multiple tastings, many consider it a worthwhile splurge for whiskey lovers.

The reviews speak volumes

Based on reviews, this tour consistently earns a perfect 5-star rating. They highlight the knowledgeable guides, the stunning countryside views, and the meaningful tastings. For example, one reviewer said, “John was the best guide—knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely fun to be around,” which speaks to the friendly, expert service you can expect.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for adults with an interest in Irish whiskey who want a comprehensive and private day exploring Ireland’s spirits scene. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, cultural heritage, and scenic drives, rather than those seeking a more flexible or low-key day.

Because it’s a full 10-hour tour, it’s best for those with a full day to dedicate to whiskey and countryside exploring. If you’re looking for a relaxing, spontaneous outing or traveling with very young children, this might not be the right fit due to the length and focus on adult tastings.

The Sum Up

This private whiskey tour from Dublin offers a well-rounded, engaging day of whiskey history, production, and tasting that appeals to both connoisseurs and casual fans alike. The private aspect, expert guides, and scenic stops make it a comfortable and educational experience, especially if you’re keen on understanding Ireland’s whiskey craft while enjoying some of the country’s most iconic distilleries and pubs.

While the day is long and not inclusive of lunch, the value lies in the personalized attention, quality of tastings, and the stories shared along the way. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want to deepen their appreciation for Irish whiskey and enjoy a hassle-free, private journey through Ireland’s countryside.

If you’re a whiskey lover or simply want to experience a meaningful slice of Irish culture in a day, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day and plan accordingly for food and rest. It’s a memorable way to connect with Ireland’s spirits and history in one smooth, guided experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip private transportation in an executive vehicle is included from a location of your choice in Dublin, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and wrapping up around 6:30 pm.

Are there tastings at each stop?
Absolutely. You’ll taste four Kilbeggan whiskeys at the distillery, Sean’s Blend and Sean’s Single Malt at the pub, and three Tullamore whiskeys at their distillery. Each tasting is guided and includes expert commentary.

Can I book this tour for a small group or just my family?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a personalized experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or allocate time during free moments for a meal.

Is this tour suitable for travelers under 18?
No, the minimum age for participation is 18 due to alcohol tastings.

What is the cost of this tour?
It’s approximately $473.15 per person, which reflects the private transport, expert guides, and multiple tastings during the day.

If you’re considering a whiskey-focused day out of Dublin, this tour ticks many boxes — scenic, educational, and tailored to those who want to explore Ireland’s whiskey roots in comfort.