Kilkenny Whiskey Guild Tours & Tastings

Experience tastings, tours, & unforgettable events

Welcome to the Kilkenny Whiskey Guild

Ireland’s Medieval Capital Kilkenny, is home to the very first written account of the distilled spirit Aqua Vitae (Water Of Life) in Ireland, found in the Red Book of Ossory over 700 years ago.

Today, eleven of the city’s finest establishments come together as the Kilkenny Whiskey Guild, each offering a curated selection of over 60 Irish whiskeys, expert staff, and unique whiskey experiences.

Whether you’re a local enthusiast or an international visitor on your whiskey pilgrimage, this is the place to begin your journey.

Explore our houses

Interior view of bar at Paris Texas Bar & Restaurant

Kilkenny Whiskey Guild branded nosing glass being filled with whiskey

Featured Experiences

Your Whiskey Pilgrimage Awaits

From intimate tastings to immersive tours, discover experiences crafted to delight both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

Book an Experience

1.5 Hours

Kyteler’s Inn Walking Tour

Guided History Walk & Irish Whiskey Tasting

€58.03 PP (Min 4 People)

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2.5 Hours

Paris Texas Food Pairing

Whiskey & Food Pairing Menu

€50 PP (Max 20 People)

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45 Mins

Red Book of Ossory

Step inside Kilkenny’s medieval manuscript story

From €10 PP

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45 Mins

Irish Coffee Workshop

Master the art of Ireland’s most iconic drink

€26.38 PP (Min 4 People)

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Join Our Monthly
Whiskey Gatherings

Six people seated and enjoying a whiskey pairing meal in Kilkenny

Monthly Events

Our monthly events bring whiskey lovers together in Kilkenny’s historic heart. From special tastings to guest masterclasses, each gathering is a chance to share stories, sample exceptional whiskeys, and connect with the community.

Upcoming events

Exterior view of entrance to Paris Texas Bar & Restaurant

Exterior view of entrance to Langton's Hotel

Exterior view of entrance to The Dylan Whisky Bar

Exterior view of entrance to Kyteler's Inn

Exterior view of entrance to Lanigan's Bar

Our houses

Eleven Houses.  
One Shared Passion.

Each Guild house carries its own character, but all share the same commitment: exceptional whiskey hospitality. Explore the collection of historic pubs, modern bars, and welcoming venues that make up the Guild—each with at least 60 Irish whiskeys waiting to be discovered in each!

Explore our houses

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Exterior view of entrance to Christy's Bar

Exterior view of entrance to Pembroke Hotel

Exterior view of entrance to The Newpark Hotel

Exterior view of entrance to Hibernian Hotel

Exterior view of entrance to The Wine Centre

History & Heritage

A Legacy Written in the Red Book

In 1324, the Red Book of Ossory recorded Ireland’s first written reference to Aqua Vitae. This ancient manuscript, created here in Kilkenny, connects the city to centuries of whiskey history. The Guild honours this heritage by blending authentic storytelling with today’s world-class hospitality.

Learn our story

testimonials

What Our Visitors Say

We’ve been attending the Kilkenny Whiskey Guild since the early days , when it started with just a few participant local pubs ! Always a pleasant experience to attend these events and to get to taste the most amazing Irish whiskeys , also some international ones ! The events are always well organised and announced in advance !

Kate C

March, 2026
Great night as always, with amazing hosts at The Dylan Whiskey Bar

David O’C

June, 2025
The best whiskey trail in the country!

Padraic R

February, 2020