They say timing is everything when it comes to pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. And, this year, vsitors to the Guinness Storehouse couldn't have timed their trip any better, as 2009 marks the 250th anniversary of Arthur Guinness signing the lease to the world-famous St. James's Gate brewery.

A whole floor of Ireland's most popular tourist attraction has been dedicated to the 250 Exhibition and specialised History of Stout Tour - the centrepiece to a year-long global celebration in honour of Sir Arthur.

Visitors can see and take home a copy of the original lease and view a specially commissioned short-film showing the illustrious story of the Guinness brand. Patrons can also socialise in a new theatrical bar, join the worldwide celebrations and have their photograph taken raising a toast to Arthur Guinness.

Designed for groups of 10 or more, the VIP History of Stout tour takes a unique, history focused journey through the Guinness Storehouse. Partake in a private tasting session to sample the characteristic flavours of Guinness variants and master the art of the perfectly poured pint of Guinness. To book this celebratory experience, tel. +353 1 408 4800 or email storehouseeventadmin@diageo.com.


ARTHUR'S DAY
Events will culminate on Arthur’s Day - 24th September 2009 - when cities across the world will come together to mark this milestone in the life of a remarkable Irish brand. Celebrations will begin in Dublin where renowned music acts and local talent will be performing at locations across the city - from pubs, bars and music venues to the St. James’s Gate brewery itself where one of its most historic buildings, Hop Store 13, will be converted into a live music studio.

At 17:59, local time, (1759 being the year the lease was signed) Dubliners will raise a Guinness to Arthur. Other international cities, including New York, Lagos, Yaoundé and Kuala Lumpur, will simultaneously host events. And when New York raises a glass 17:59 local time, the curtain will come down on 24hrs of global celebrations. For more info on this unique event, and to find out how you can take part, log on to www.guinness-storehouse.com.


With a quarter of a century of brewing history embedded in the iconic Guinness Storehouse, where better to say ‘thank you’ to Arthur Guinness and Dublin than right here where it all began?

To find out more about the Guinness Storehouse, including opening hours and prices, click here.