Welcome to Tom Crean Brewery, a small, family-run brewery nestled in the heart of Kenmare on the Wild Atlantic Way. More than just a place to enjoy great beer, our brewery is a tribute to the extraordinary legacy of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean and Aileen’s grandfather — and to the values of courage, sustainability, and community that define us.
We’re a proudly independent brewery, run by husband and wife team Bill and Aileen Sheppard. Bill brews the beer and to date has brewed 12 different styles of beer and a hop infused sparkling water, all natural, free from additives, chemicals, are not pastuerised or filtered and are vegan, so in moderation are a healthy drink. Our “00” IPA- Last Man Standing is isotonic and only 70 calories. He has just bottled a new drink- “HOP2MIST -hop infused sparkling water, 0 calories, gluten free, vegan, so refreshing and has all the goodness of the hops and brings decades of brewing knowledge to each batch.
Aileen’s roots are steeped in Antarctic history — her grandfather was on 3 Antarctic expeditions, two with Capt. Rober Falcon Scott’s 1901 & 1910 and tHE Endurance expedition with Sir Ernest Shackleton 1914. He was one of the 6 men that sailed in the 22.5′ lifeboat the James Caird, 800 miles in the Southern Ocean, still considered one of the greatest feats of navigation ever.
Our brewery tour is more than just a look behind the scenes. It’s a one-of-a-kind, authentic storytelling experience combining:
- The epic story of grandfather Tom Crean, Antarctic hero and Irish legend
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The history of brewing in Ireland
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How we brew our natural, vegan beers — free from chemicals and additives
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Our commitment to sustainability as a Zero Emissions Brewery
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The epic story of Tom Crean, Antarctic hero and Irish legend
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Our family’s 2016 Centenary expedition to South Georgia
All while you enjoy tastings of our Blas na hÉireann award-winning beers. Public tours run Saturdays at 3pm (€25pp), or private tours are available by prior arrangement for groups of 8 or more.
We’re passionate about protecting the landscape that inspires us. Our brewery runs on green energy and uses sustainable processes from grain to glass. In fact, we’re currently working on our B Corp certification to formally recognise our environmental and social responsibility efforts.
Our beers are not only free from chemicals — they’re also vegan and hangover-free. Yes, really. Even our “00” IPA – Last Man Standing is a hit: all-natural, just 70 calories, and one of the only truly clean low-alcohol brews in Ireland.
Tom Crean was a man of quiet strength, loyalty, and unmatched bravery — qualities we honour in every aspect of our brewery. From our Antarctic-themed decor to our carefully crafted beer names, you’ll feel his story come alive during your visit.
We recently collaborated with a film team from Fáilte Ireland, and we’ll be sharing that video soon. In the meantime, we’re always happy to send photos or chat about potential partnerships — just reach out.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a curious traveller, or someone who appreciates honest stories and great company, we’d love to welcome you to Tom Crean Brewery. Come for the tour, stay for the conversation, and leave with a deeper connection to this special corner of Ireland.
Book your tour or table now → https://tomcreanbrewerykenmare.ie
To Tom Crean. To craft. To courage. To Kenmare.
Sláinte – from all of us at Tom Crean Brewery