McConnell’s Distillery and Visitor Experience

Planning your visit to this North Belfast landmark is straightforward, with the Visitor Experience open daily from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm. The Signature Tour is the most popular choice, currently priced at approximately £25.00 for adults, which includes a guided walk and a curated tasting. For those seeking a deeper dive, the Connoisseur Tour is available for £49.00, offering premium expressions of their award-winning whisky. If you are not a whisky drinker, you can still enjoy the atmosphere at the Long Serve Bar or the on-site cafe, which are free to enter. Booking in advance via their website is highly recommended, as tours are limited to small groups to ensure an intimate experience. Children aged 10 and over are welcome on the tours at a reduced rate, though they must be 18 to participate in the tasting.

To get the most out of your distillery trip, allow at least 90 minutes for the full tour and tasting experience. Since the distillery is housed in a former prison wing, the environment can be cool, so wearing an extra layer is advisable. The site has been renovated with accessibility in mind, featuring lifts to all floors and level access throughout most of the tour. If you are visiting as a family, keep in mind that while younger children can join, the experience is primarily designed for adults and those over 10. Photography is encouraged throughout the building, especially in the stunning still room. For a unique souvenir, the gift shop offers distillery-exclusive bottlings and branded merchandise that you won't find anywhere else. Also, look out for special events like the "Barrel of Laughs" comedy nights or themed afternoon teas.

McConnell’s Distillery is located on the Crumlin Road, just a few minutes north of the city center. It is very accessible for holidaymakers; the easiest way to arrive is by taking the Translink Metro bus routes 57 or 12, which depart regularly from the city center and stop right outside the Crumlin Road Gaol. If you are using the Belfast City Sightseeing hop-on-hop-off bus, simply hop off at stop 18. For those who prefer to drive, there is ample free parking on-site, which is a significant bonus for a city attraction. If you are staying in the city center, a taxi will take less than 10 minutes and cost roughly £8 to £10. The distillery is also within walking distance of the Cathedral Quarter, making it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring the city's historic north side.