The thriving craft beer scene in Galway is a result of the talents and skills of its breweries. Merging traditional Irish brewing methods with innovative techniques, these breweries are responsible for giving Galway its name as a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. Discover Galway’s best breweries right here.
Galway Hooker Craft Brewing Co.
The independent artisan brewery, Galway Hooker Craft Brewing Co. is dedicated to the production of high quality, natural full flavoured beers. A pioneer of the modern craft beer movement, Galway Hooker is Ireland’s third-oldest independent brewery and the oldest existing brewery in Connacht. The producers of the original Irish Pale Ale, the range of their award-winning products include IPAs, Pilsners, stouts, beers, red ales and more. All of their beers are craft brewed by combining the finest ingredients with traditional brewing techniques and are brewed using only malt, hops yeast and water. You’ll find their beers on tap and bottled in bars across Galway city and county as well as nationwide.
Carrowmoneash, Deerpark Industrial Estate, Oranmore / more here
above: photo courtesy of Galway Hooker Brewery
Bridewell Brewery
Offering a true taste of Connemara, the beers of Bridewell Brewery can be found on tap in bars, hotels and restaurants across the region. Brewed right in the heart of the Capital of Connemara, this family-run brewery specialises in original draught beers that are filled with flavour. Brewed by locals for locals and special guests, Bridewell Brewery supplies traditionally-brewed beers to businesses across West Galway. Whether these beers are paired with food or enjoyed on their own, the premium quality of Bridewell Brewery beers makes them the perfect drinks to enjoy when you are meeting friends or simply relaxing in some well-deserved downtime. Be sure to ask for Bridewell.
Bridewell Lane, Clifden / more here
above: photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Galway Bay Brewery
Taking things to a whole new level, Galway Bay Brewery is responsible for some of the finest craft beer orientated bars across Ireland. Their list of cosy bars include the Oslo in Salthill, The Dew Drop Inn and The Salt House in Galway’s Westend as well as Dublin’s The Gasworks, Bar Rua, The Beer Temple, Against the Grain and many many more! Check out the full list here. The success of this brewery comes down to their diverse range of beers which include new monthly releases. They brew a full spectrum of flavours, from fruity sours to big barrel aged beers Galway Bay Brewery have taken care to ensure they’ve got a brew for everyone.
Station Rd, Carrowmoneash, Oranmore / more here
above: photo courtesy of Galway Bay Brewery
Connemara Brewing Co.
Through the use of traditional recipes and the best possible local ingredients which is sourced directly from carefully selected producers, Connemara Brewing Co ensures their production of consistent high quality and great tasting beers. Led by one of the foremost brewers in Ireland, Aine O’Hora has started and ran both start-up craft and large international breweries and now invests all that experience and skill into Connemara Brewing Co. Their signature lagers and ales are perfectly balanced and complement a range of different tastes. This Connemara brewery focuses on creating a small number of beers in order to put a dedicated effort into ensuring they deliver the perfect product every time.
Unit 2C, Carraroe Industrial Estate, Carraroe / more here
above: photo courtesy of Connemara Brewing Co.
Galway Food Tours’ Craft Beer Tour
Galway Food Tours is the perfect way to begin your flavour-filled journey into the world of craft beer in Galway. On a 2.5hr walking tour around the city streets, your guide will feed you not only with the very best brews from Ireland, but also with facts & stories about Galway, learning the secrets of beer production. To learn more about these craft beer tours, please head over to their website via the link here. Galway Food Tours were recently named in the prestigious list of the 'World's Tastiest Autumn Food Experiences' by Sunday Times Ireland so rest assured they know what they are talking about!
above: photo courtesy of Galway Food Tours
Now that you’ve met the makers of Galway’s delicious beers, head over to the link here to discover our article on Galway’s best distilleries.
Feature photo courtesy of Galway Hooker Brewing Co.
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