Founded in 2011 and named after Kinnegar Beach near its birthplace in Rathmullan, Kinnegar is one of Ireland’s biggest, best-loved and most respected independent breweries.

Rooted in the fields and farms of north-east Donegal, the brewery operates from a modern facility in Letterkenny, where its unfiltered, unpasteurised, and naturally carbonated beers are brewed and packaged.

Kinnegar pairs brewing tradition with a contemporary sense of adventure to produce clean, crisp, full-flavoured beers. Amongst a wide range of highly drinkable styles, Scraggy Bay IPA is Kinnegar’s flagship while Limeburner Pale Ale, DL Lager, Rustbucket Rye IPA, Big Bunny East Coast IPA and Crossroads West Coast IPA are all firm favourites. The extensive core range is supported by the small batch, once-off Brewers at Play (BAP) and Taproom Only (TRO) experimental series.

The recent addition of Jackrabbit Ginger Beer and Jackrabbit Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer adds an exciting new dimension to the range.

The brewery’s K2 Taproom welcomes visitors for pints, brewery tours and take-out beers, with The Dirty Souls food truck serving top class Texas BBQ on site from Thursday to Saturday.

Kinnegar’s beers are available widely across Donegal and throughout Ireland in can, bottle, and on draught.

Accessibility

Ample parking
Wheelchair accessible

Awards

World Beer Cup, Gold
European Beer Star, Gold
Brussels Beer Challenge (multiple)

Features

FAQ

Is it possible to do a brewery tour?

Yes. We offer brewery tours on many Fridays at 5pm and also for groups by arrangement. Keep an eye on our social media and webshop for current information and find out more here: https://www.kinnegarbrewing.ie/tours You can pre-book your place through our webshop.

Can I try your beers at the brewery?

Yes, we have a great Taproom on site where you can buy beers from the fridge every day except Sunday. You can enjoy sit-in beers on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-7pm.

Have you a taproom?

Yes, we have a great Taproom on site where you can buy beers from the fridge every day except Sunday. You can enjoy sit-in beers on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-7pm.

What's your most popular beer?

Scraggy Bay (IPA) is our flagship beer and you'll find it everywhere. Limeburner (Pale Ale), Rustbucket (Rye IPA), DL (Lager) and Big Bunny (East Coast IPA) are also very popular. But we have many more!

When was Kinnegar founded?

Kinnegar was founded in 2011 in Rathmullan by Rick LeVert and Libby Carton. It began in a tiny pilot facility (now known as Pre-K) brewing 50L batches before moving into K1, a purpose built brewery in 2013. We moved to our current site, K2, in 2017.

Where can I buy Kinnegar when my holiday is over?

Kinnegar's range is available island-wide in all good independent off-licences, in Tesco, Lidl, SuperValu, and many other outlets, as well as in many good pubs and restaurants. If you're from France, Italy, the Netherlands or Spain, you'll also have a chance of finding Kinnegar at home.

What kind of events take place at the brewery?

Oktoberfest and Summerfest (August BH weekend) are our two major annual events, with live music, good food, and lots of great beer. Throughout the year you can catch live music sessions, poetry readings, cheese nights, sustainable clothing swaps, vinyl record fairs, and any number of other events. Keep an eye on our social media for details.

How far is the brewery from the town centre?

It's a 20-30 minute walk or a very quick taxi ride.

Can I get to the brewery with public transport?

The 973 Local Link from Letterkenny to Fanad goes right by the top of our road. It's a great service and an excellent way to enjoy your beer without driving.

Do you make an alcohol free beer?

No, but we do offer Low Tide, a really enjoyable 1% Pale Ale. It's always on drought in the Taproom and also available in both bottle and can.

Do you sell only beer at the Taproom?

Beer is the only alcoholic drink on offer but we have a great selection of locally made Kombuchas, Football Special and other options in the fridge.

I've heard that you make a ginger beer – is it on draught at the Taproom?

Indeed it is! Jackrabbit is one of our best sellers and you can also bring some bottles home afterwards.

Do you sell food at the brewery?

The Dirty Souls food truck serves at the brewery on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Their Texas BBQ has a fantastic reputation!

Location

Now Closed

Opening Hours

  • Monday 10:30 AM - 05:30 PM
  • Tuesday 10:30 AM - 05:30 PM
  • Wednesday 10:30 AM - 05:30 PM
  • Thursday 10:30 AM - 07:00 PM
  • Friday 10:30 AM - 07:00 PM
  • Saturday 01:00 PM - 07:00 PM
  • SundayClosed

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