Spirits, Wines and Beers

The pub is of great cultural significance in Ireland and Great Britain and functions as a place to relax as well a hub for the community. Given this, it’s not surprising then that the people know a thing or two about producing fine beverages. There are regional differences, with Whiskey taking centre stage in Ireland and Scotland, Gin in England and Beer in Wales. You can visit the links below for more information on the drinks culture you can expect in each country. And remember, that all of our tours are tailored to your needs. So we can create an itinerary that will allow you to visit all the countries below, and include other elements in any tour to give you a complete cultural exploration of the regions you decide to visit.

IRELAND

Given that Ireland is the land where whiskey distillation originated, what better place to explore whiskey culture further. And while Guinness is the main brewery, a recent craft brewing movement is changing the scene dramatically.

SCOTLAND

The earliest record of Scottish whisky distillation dates back to the late 1400s. As of 2018, there were 133 Scotch whisky distilleries operating in Scotland, the world's largest concentration of whisky distilleries.

WALES

Beer is the national drink in Wales with Druids said to have brewed grains and herbs as early as the 6th century. The country also has a small number of Whiskey and Gin distilleries, along with 17 vineyards. Welsh wines are developing an excellent reputation worldwide.

ENGLAND

Gin is by far the spirit that England is most associated with. It emerged in England in the early 17th Century, and it's cheap price made it popular among the poor. Wine-making was introduced to England by the Romans, and after a decline in the mid 1800s viticulture was revived in the 1970s.