Rooftop Views

Overview

Perched atop the iconic Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland, the 'Rooftop Views' refer to the renowned Gravity Bar, a must-visit destination that culminates the immersive journey through the home of the 'black stuff'. This unique space, enveloped in glass and steel, offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the vibrant city of Dublin, providing an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate its urban landscape and surrounding natural beauty. Visitors to the Guinness Storehouse conclude their experience on the seventh floor, where they can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness, Guinness 0.0, or a soft drink, all while soaking in the expansive vistas that stretch across the city skyline and beyond.

History & Cultural Background

The building housing the Guinness Storehouse, located at St. James's Gate Brewery, was originally constructed in 1902 as a fermentation plant, an integral part of the brewing process where yeast was added. Designed in the architectural style of the Chicago School, it was notably Ireland's first multi-storey steel-framed building. In 1997, the decision was made to transform this historic industrial site into a world-class visitor center, which officially opened its doors in 2000. The Gravity Bar, as a highlight of this transformation, has evolved over the years. A significant expansion completed in March 2020, following a three-year, €20 million investment and 175,000 man-hours, more than doubled its size. This expansion included hoisting 230 square meters of glass to the viewing deck and reshaping its footprint into a figure-of-eight design, further enhancing the panoramic views for guests.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Gravity Bar apart is its remarkable 360-degree perspective of Dublin. As the highest bar in Dublin, standing approximately 46 meters off the ground, it offers unparalleled sightlines. From this elevated position, visitors can easily spot many of Dublin's most cherished landmarks. To the east, the historic campus of Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592, comes into view. St. Patrick's Cathedral, an architectural marvel and a staple of The Liberties community for over 800 years, is also clearly visible. Further afield, the sprawling expanse of Phoenix Park, Europe's largest city park and home to a herd of wild deer, can be seen, alongside the distant, picturesque Wicklow Mountains, which famously supply the water used in Guinness production. The bar's contemporary design, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows, creates an immersive 'open air' sensation, seamlessly blending the interior experience with the vibrant cityscape outside.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Gravity Bar is not just a place for stunning views; it's steeped in fascinating details. It has welcomed numerous prominent visitors, including royalty and world leaders. The immense scale of the 2020 expansion saw 600 people, including architects, engineers, and builders, contribute to its realization, demonstrating the significant commitment to creating a world-class visitor experience. It's often said that the bar itself is designed to resemble the head of a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, a subtle nod to the iconic beverage it celebrates. A particularly charming detail is that the water for brewing Guinness comes from the very Wicklow Mountains that can be admired from the bar's windows, linking the natural landscape to the beer's unique taste. The initial 9,000-year lease signed by Arthur Guinness for the brewery site in 1759 is a legendary commitment to his vision, a copy of which can be found on the ground floor of the Storehouse.

Visitor Perspective

For many travelers, reaching the Gravity Bar is the exhilarating crescendo of their Guinness Storehouse journey. After exploring seven floors dedicated to the history, ingredients, brewing process, and advertising legacy of Guinness, the moment of stepping into the Gravity Bar is often described as a 'wow' experience. It's a place where the history, craftsmanship, and Irish hospitality converge, offering a moment of reflection as visitors sip their perfectly poured pint while gazing out at Dublin. The atmosphere is one of relaxed enjoyment, with comfortable seating encouraging guests to linger and appreciate the unique blend of modernity and tradition. Every standard Guinness Storehouse ticket includes entry to the Gravity Bar and a complimentary drink, making it an accessible and integral part of the overall visit.