The Smithwick’s Experience is closing permanently resulting in the loss of jobs and the knock-on impact on Kilkenny’s tourist offering.
The award-winning tourist attraction was a favourite among visitors to the city and was also loved by locals as it told the social history of the Smithwick’s brewery in Kilkenny and the closure came as a huge shock.
The Smithwick’s Experience been closed since March 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit Ireland and has been unable to open due to restrictions, social distancing requirements and the lack of international visitors, which has been the mainstay of the centre.
The original brewery in Kilkenny shut in December 2013. The plant manufactured Smithwick’s, Kilkenny ale, Budweiser and Harp Lager. The site reopened as a visitor attraction in late July 2014.
A spokesperson for Diageo said that the company is saddened to announce the closure.
“Over the past 12 months we have evaluated all available options, but unfortunately we have come to the decision that it is impossible for us to adapt the experience for it to be a viable business and experience going forward.
“As a result we are saddened to announce that the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny will be closing permanently.
