Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery in Dublin: A Blend of Spirits and Stories

Introduction

Nestled in the historic Liberties district, the Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery in Dublin offers more than a tasting—it’s a journey through Ireland’s whiskey heritage wrapped in local history. Unlike larger commercial distilleries, this boutique destination is housed in a restored 18th-century church, complete with stained-glass windows and a spire that watches over the city. It’s one of the most atmospheric whiskey experiences you’ll find anywhere in Ireland.

The distillery was founded by Pearse Lyons, an Irish entrepreneur with a passion for brewing and distilling. His vision was to bring whiskey back to the Liberties, a neighborhood once known as the heart of Dublin’s distilling industry. Today, visitors step into St. James’s Church to find copper stills gleaming beneath vaulted ceilings, blending tradition, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a curious traveler, Pearse Lyons offers an intimate, guided experience where every detail—from the architecture to the flavor notes—tells a tale. Here’s your complete guide to visiting this uniquely Irish attraction.

What is Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery famous for?

The distillery is famous for its boutique, small-batch Irish whiskey and for being located in a beautifully restored church. Its tours combine whiskey tasting with storytelling about Dublin’s Liberties and the people buried in the adjoining graveyard.

Why should you visit Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery?

You should visit because it offers:

A personal, intimate whiskey tour, unlike larger distilleries.

A chance to learn about Dublin’s distilling heritage.

A stunning setting inside a converted church with stained-glass windows.

Tastings of award-winning Pearse Irish Whiskeys.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery?

Opening hours:

Monday–Sunday: 10:30 am – 5:00 pm

Last tour usually begins around 4:00 pm.

Best time to visit: Weekday mornings are quieter, offering a more relaxed tour. Evenings and weekends tend to be busier.

How much does it cost to visit Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery?

Ticket prices vary depending on the tour:

Signature Tour & Tasting: Around €20–€25 per adult.

Legacy Tour & Tasting: Includes premium whiskey samples, priced around €30–€35.

Children under 18: Typically not admitted on tasting tours but may join heritage-focused tours.

What can you see or do at Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery?

Guided tours led by storytellers who share tales of whiskey-making and Dublin history.

Whiskey tastings of Pearse Original, Distiller’s Choice, Founder’s Choice, and rare editions.

Explore the beautifully restored church with its stained-glass artwork.

Learn about the history of the Liberties and the stories of those laid to rest in the adjacent graveyard.

Visit the shop to buy exclusive distillery-only whiskey releases.

What is the history behind Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery?

The distillery opened in 2017, but its story is rooted in centuries of history. St. James’s Church, where it is located, dates back to the 12th century and served the local community for generations. After falling into disrepair, it was transformed by Dr. Pearse Lyons into a working distillery and cultural hub.

Pearse Lyons himself came from a family of coopers and brewers in Dundalk. His vision was to honor Dublin’s whiskey-making tradition, while bringing new life to the Liberties—once home to over 30 distilleries. The result is a distillery that fuses old and new, keeping the spirit of Irish whiskey alive.

Where is Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery located and how do you get there?

📍 Address: James’s St, The Liberties, Dublin 8, Ireland.

🚶 On foot: A 20-minute walk from Temple Bar or Dublin Castle.
🚌 By bus: Served by several routes stopping nearby on James’s Street.
🚋 By Luas (tram): Closest stop is James’s, just a 5-minute walk away.
🚗 By car: Limited street parking available; public transport is recommended.

Insider Tips for Visiting Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery

🥃 Book tours in advance—groups are small and often sell out.

📸 Don’t miss the chance to photograph the copper stills beneath the church’s stained-glass windows.

🍀 Pair your visit with a walk around the Liberties, one of Dublin’s most historic neighborhoods.

Nearby Attractions to Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery

Guinness Storehouse – Dublin’s most famous attraction, just a 10-minute walk away.

Christ Church Cathedral – A medieval cathedral rich in history.

Dublinia – An interactive museum bringing Viking and medieval Dublin to life.

Teeling Whiskey Distillery – Another whiskey hub nearby for comparison.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Ireland’s largest church, only a short stroll away.

Discover Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery with Questo

A visit to the Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery in Dublin is a treat for all senses—history, architecture, and the unmistakable taste of fine Irish whiskey. It’s more than a tour; it’s a storytelling experience where every sip connects you with Ireland’s past.

With Questo, you can make your Dublin journey even more immersive. Explore the Liberties, uncover hidden stories, and solve clues that guide you from landmark to landmark—including Pearse Lyons.

👉 Download the Questo app today and turn your visit to the Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery into an interactive Dublin adventure.