Locke's Distillery is the only small pot still whiskey distillery remaining in Ireland, the only examples of what used to be a widespread Irish industry. Locke's Distillery was licensed in 1757 and produced whiskey for over 200 years, closing in 1953. In 1982 the local community began restoring the distillery and have re-opened it as a museum.

The museum is open seven days a week and there is a choice of a guided or self-guided tour. The guided tour takes about 40 minutes and shows the ancient process of whiskey making, from the mill stones, to the mash tuns, underbacks, fermentation vats, can pit stills to the casking of the final product. The two sources of power, the steam engine and the water wheel are always of great interest. The tour is complemented by the tales and stories gathered from the workers from the distillery. Over 85% of the original distillery machinery remains intact and restoration work is ongoing. In July 1997, the machinery turned again for the first time since closure. The drive shaft, pulleys and pumps are all working on a daily basis.

An exhibition in the front grain loft was opened by Her Excellency, Mary McAleese, President of Ireland on June 17th 1998. It presents a large part of the collection of distillery artefacts. This new addition greatly enhances the visits.
The museum is complemented by the Locke's Pantry Coffee Shop which serves both individuals and group business. The menu specialises in home baked fresh foods. Kilbeggan is a traditional North-South, East-West crossroads, making it a perfect stop-over for your journey. The guided tour and snack/meal in the Pantry is the ideal break.