Just a short stroll from the city centre, the Liberties is one of the most historic neighbourhoods in the city. In fact, you can even see the crumbling remnants of the old city walls right at the top of Thomas Street, marking the hub of all the Viking activity in Dublin (most of this area is built on top of the old Viking settlements).
But as well as being part of the historic fabric of the city, the Liberties is also known for its one main industry - whiskey. In the 18th and 19th centuries, this district was filled to the brim with distilleries, renowned around the world as the heart of the industry. In 1875, the Great Whiskey Fire of Dublin tore through the area, as over 5,000 barrels ignited and flooded the streets with a river of burning whiskey.
After a roaring few years, the industry slowed down in the 20th century, with the last distillery closing in 1973. But thankfully, that's all changed. In recent years, there's been a resurgence in the industry, and now there's a thriving scene of new, boutique distilleries back in the heart of the neighbourhood.
A tour of the Teeling’s Whiskey Distillery will teach you everything you need to know about whiskey, and you'll get to taste a snifter or two as well, of course. If you want a more in-depth experience, opt for their Distillery Select Tasing (€30) which includes a lengthier tasting - you'll get to sample their rarer blends as well as their flagship whiskey, and you finish things off with a cocktail in the bar.
- Cost: Tours from €17
- Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 9am – 5pm
- Location: 1.5km/18 minute walk from Wren
- Website: teelingwhiskey.com