Speight's Brewery Tour & Dinner

Experience Dunedin’s Historic Speight’s Brewery in a Unique Tour & Dinner

If you’re headed to Dunedin and want a taste of local heritage combined with a relaxed, flavorful experience, the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner is a fantastic choice. Located at 200 Rattray Street, this tour offers a compelling glimpse into New Zealand’s oldest operational brewery, which has been brewing since the late 1800s. For just over 48 dollars, you get a 75-minute journey through history, innovation, and taste, plus a hearty two-course meal at the iconic Speight’s Ale House.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances history and modern brewing technology. You’ll see the historic Brew Floor—a piece of living history—and then witness the latest in brewing equipment in the same setting, giving you a sense of how tradition meets innovation. Also, the friendly, knowledgeable guides—like Marty and Thomas—keep things lively and engaging, sharing anecdotes that make the process come alive.

One potential consideration is the group size, which is limited to 18 people, ensuring an intimate experience but also requiring some planning—most book their spot 238 days in advance on average. The tour suits those who enjoy authentic local experiences, beer enthusiasts eager to learn about brewing, and travelers who appreciate a good story and a great meal afterward.

Key Points

Historical Insight: Learn about Dunedin’s brewing legacy and see the historic Brew Floor.
Tastings & Tips: Enjoy a guided tasting session, including how to pour the perfect beer.
Authentic Meal: Finish with a hearty two-course meal at the Speight’s Ale House, paired with your favorite beer.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, funny guides like Marty and Thomas make the tour memorable.
Small Group: Limited to 18 travelers, offering personalized attention.
Value for Price: At $48.28, the experience offers a well-rounded taste of culture, history, and flavor.

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A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins promptly at 12:00 pm at 200 Rattray Street. It lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a perfect midday activity. The small group size keeps the experience personal, allowing ample time for questions and interaction. After the tour, everyone is invited back to the meeting point, where the culinary part continues at the Ale House.

The Historic and Modern Brewing Floor

The highlight of the tour is the chance to touch, smell, and see the brewing process firsthand. The historic Brew Floor allows visitors to step into the past, with original brewing equipment and the stories behind it. This is especially appealing for history buffs or anyone curious about how beer was brewed over a century ago.

Meanwhile, the 2017 remodel introduced a state-of-the-art brewery, which you will also visit. This blend of old and new gives a real appreciation for how the brewery has adapted and modernized without losing its roots. Visitors often comment on how engaging it is to see the craftsmanship of traditional brewing alongside the latest technology.

The Guided Tour and Tasting

Guides like Marty and Thomas are frequently praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They keep the atmosphere fun and informative, sharing tidbits about the heritage of Speight’s and the brewing process.

During the tour, you’ll get to touch and smell ingredients, and they’ll demonstrate how to pour the perfect beer. The 30-minute tasting session in the Tasting Room is a highlight, allowing you to sample fresh beers and see how they differ from mass-produced varieties. Several reviewers emphasized that freshness makes a difference, and the beer tasted excellent, especially the dark ale.

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The Ale House Meal

After the tour, the experience continues with a two-course meal at the famous Speight’s Ale House. The menu is hearty and typically includes local favorites like seafood chowder, which some visitors praise as the “best ever.” As part of the experience, you’ll receive a glass of your favorite beer from the tasting, making it a perfect pairing.

Price and Value

At $48.28 per person, including the tour, tasting, and meal, this experience offers solid value. Considering the quality of guides, the opportunity to learn about local brewing traditions, and the delicious meal, it’s an experience worth planning ahead for.

The Reviews Say It All

Recent reviews consistently praise the knowledge and humor of guides like Marty and Thomas, calling the tour “very interesting and fun.” One reviewer said Marty was “very funny” and kept everyone entertained, while another appreciated Thomas’s wealth of information. The beer tasting receives glowing comments about its fresher taste and variety, and the food is often described as “brilliant”—especially the seafood chowder.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is ideal for beer lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies looking for a local, authentic experience. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group activities with personal interaction, as well as those keen on learning about Dunedin’s cultural heritage. Families with moderate physical fitness levels will find it manageable, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible.

The Sum Up

The Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner offers a well-rounded look at Dunedin’s brewing legacy, delivered by enthusiastic guides in an intimate setting. The combination of historic charm, modern brewing, and a delicious meal creates a memorable experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a dedicated beer connoisseur or simply curious about New Zealand’s oldest brewery, this tour provides both insight and enjoyment at a reasonable price.

For those who appreciate a guided story filled with authentic local flavor and behind-the-scenes access, this experience will not disappoint. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine learning, tasting, and dining into one seamless outing—an ideal way to spend a relaxing afternoon in Dunedin.

How long is the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, with an additional 30-minute tasting session and the meal afterwards.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 200 Rattray Street, Central Dunedin.

What is included in the tour?
You get an insightful guided tour of the brewery, a 30-minute beer tasting, and a two-course meal at the Speight’s Ale House.

How much does the experience cost?
The total price is $48.28 per person, which covers everything—tour, tasting, and meal.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness, and while service animals are permitted, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and standing during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing peace of mind planning.

What makes this tour special compared to other brewery visits?
The blend of historic brewing equipment with modern facilities, combined with friendly guides and a hearty meal, makes it both educational and satisfying.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews consistently praise guides like Marty and Thomas for their wealth of information and entertaining style.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, with moderate physical activity and service animals allowed, it can suit families with older children or teenagers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and some standing. No special attire required, but be prepared for possible coolness inside the brewery.

This tour offers a charming, authentic slice of Dunedin’s brewing history with the added bonus of a hearty meal and excellent company. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply looking for a fun cultural outing, it’s a worthwhile addition to your New Zealand itinerary.