Galway Bay Brewery Ireland – From the West Coast to the World
At TheCru.ie, we’re proud to highlight Irish breweries that have helped shape and define what craft beer in Ireland stands for today — and Galway Bay Brewery Ireland is a perfect example. As one of the trailblazers of the modern craft beer movement here, Galway Bay has gone from a small brewpub by the sea to a powerhouse of innovation, flavour, and quality recognised both at home and internationally. From West Coast IPAs to imperial stouts aged in whiskey barrels, this brewery has earned its reputation as one of the best in the business.
Galway Bay Brewery was founded in 2009 by Jason O’Connell and Niall Walsh, two friends who shared a love of good beer and believed Irish drinkers deserved more choice than the usual mass-produced options. They opened The Oslo Bar in Salthill with a small brewing setup on site, and before long, the demand for their bold, flavourful beers far exceeded their local tap lines.
Over a decade later, Galway Bay has grown into a major independent brewery with a state-of-the-art production facility in Oranmore, County Galway, and a network of pubs across Ireland. Yet despite the scale, the ethos has never changed — brewing without compromise, and always with character.
Based in Oranmore on Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast, Galway Bay Brewery is surrounded by the elements that influence both their brewing style and their spirit — unpredictable weather, stunning scenery, and a strong sense of community. While the brewery has outgrown its humble Salthill roots, it has stayed grounded in its Galway identity, proudly independent and still closely connected to its original pub culture.
Their in-house taprooms, such as Against the Grain in Dublin and The Salt House in Galway, have become essential destinations for craft beer Dublin drinkers and visitors alike. These venues are more than just bars — they’re places to experience the freshest Galway Bay beers, learn about the brewing process, and discover new styles from Ireland and abroad.
Galway Bay Brewery Ireland’s brewing philosophy is about flavour first, led by innovation, but grounded in technique. The team believes great beer can be both adventurous and accessible — whether you’re cracking open a hop-heavy double IPA or a clean, crisp lager.
They brew a wide range of styles but are especially known for their hop-forward beers, barrel-aged experiments, and dark beers with real depth. Using only the finest ingredients — Irish and international malt, hops sourced from the US, New Zealand, and Europe, and their own yeast profiles — Galway Bay takes a meticulous approach to recipe development and brewing consistency.
Their brewers also work closely with their culinary team, developing beers that pair well with food or stand up on their own. The result is a line-up that’s rich in flavour, creative in execution, and always evolving.
Galway Bay’s core range includes some of the most recognisable beers in Ireland’s craft scene, many of which have become mainstays in fridges, pubs, and festivals across the country.
Of Foam and Fury – A legendary Double IPA packed with tropical fruit, pine, and malt sweetness. Big, bold, and unapologetic.
Althea Pale Ale – Soft, juicy, and low bitterness — a modern hazy pale ale perfect for everyday drinking.
Bay Ale – A balanced and malty Irish red ale with subtle hop character. Galway Bay’s nod to tradition.
Alongside the core range, Galway Bay regularly releases small-batch and limited-edition brews, often barrel-aged in whiskey, rum, or wine barrels. Their 200 Fathoms Imperial Stout is one of the most anticipated releases in Irish beer each year — an export-strength stout aged in Galway’s own Teeling whiskey casks, loaded with flavour and depth.
Over the years, Galway Bay Brewery Ireland has picked up numerous national and international awards. From recognition at the World Beer Awards to consistent praise from drinkers and critics, their beers have been celebrated for their balance, creativity, and drinkability.
But perhaps their greatest achievement is the lasting impact they’ve had on craft beer Ireland. As one of the earliest modern craft breweries in the country, they helped set the tone for what Irish brewing could be — flavour-forward, independent, and willing to challenge the status quo.
They’ve also played a leading role in education and advocacy within the craft beer Dublin scene, supporting local producers, collaborating with breweries across the globe, and mentoring the next generation of Irish brewers.
Their pubs are a vital part of their identity and success. Rather than simply distributing to others, Galway Bay invested in building their own spaces to control the beer experience from brewery to glass. These venues have helped introduce thousands of people to fresh, quality craft beer — and to Galway Bay’s unique take on brewing.
Support Irish craft beer by exploring more from the best Irish breweries.
Want to get your hands on some of the country’s best brews? Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. We stock a rotating selection of Galway Bay favourites, limited editions, and seasonal releases — ideal whether you're a fan of hops, malt, or barrel-aged magic.
Order your craft beer online for delivery or for collection in our craft beer Dublin shop, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. Whether you’re stocking up for the weekend or sending a gift to a fellow beer lover, Galway Bay Brewery Ireland is always a standout choice.
Galway Bay Brewery Ireland continues to define what Irish craft beer can be — flavourful, independent, and always evolving. With roots in the west and a vision that reaches far beyond, their beers bring something truly special to every pour. Add a few to your next order and discover why this Galway gem is loved not just across Ireland, but around the world.