Brewing Up Drama: Why Netflix's 'House of Guinness' is Your Next Obsession

Dive into the dark, intoxicating world of the Guinness family with Steven Knight's new period drama, packed with power struggles, forbidden secrets, and stunning costumes.

TL;DR

• Netflix's House of Guinness plunges into the 19th-century family saga after patriarch Benjamin Guinness's death.
• From sibling rivalry and political intrigue to hidden sexualities and lavish historical detail, this series has it all.
• Created by Peaky Blinders' Steven Knight, expect a rich, complex, and sometimes shockingly real story.

More Than Just a Pint of Guinness: Unpacking the Story

If you're anything like us, you can’t resist a good period piece, especially one that spills all the tea (or should we say, stout?) on a powerful family dynasty. Netflix's latest historical drama, House Of Guinness, launched its full eight-episode season in late September, and it’s been stirring up quite the conversation. Created by the acclaimed Steven Knight, the mastermind behind hits like Peaky Blinders, this series takes us back to 19th-century Ireland to explore the fascinating, often scandalous, history behind the world’s most famous brewery.

The show kicks off on a somber note in the 1860s with the death of Benjamin Guinness, the formidable patriarch of the brewing empire. His demise throws his four children into a turbulent struggle for control, legacy, and even their very identity. Benjamin’s will is a bombshell, leaving his vast fortune to his two eldest sons, Arthur and Edward, but with a major catch: they can’t split the company, or they forfeit everything. Meanwhile, his youngest son (who battles addiction) and his bright daughter (constrained by society’s rules) are left largely out of the will, forced to carve their own paths.

The Brilliant Minds Behind the Billion-Dollar Brew

Steven Knight, known for his gritty, intense narratives, brings his signature style to House of Guinness. If you’ve seen Peaky Blinders or Rogue Heroes, you'll recognize his knack for blending historical settings with high-stakes drama and, let's be honest, often over-the-top violence. While one reviewer admitted to struggling with Peaky Blinders' intensity, they found themselves "fully hooked" on House of Guinness by the third episode, even discovering some "very good women's costumes" along the way!

Knight himself has shared an intriguing insight into the show's blend of fact and fiction. He revealed that the more outrageous or seemingly unbelievable plotlines are often drawn directly from real-life events. Conversely, the more "normal and likely" elements might be his own imaginative flourishes. As he told Town and Country magazine, "When people look it up, they’ll find that the things that seem to be made up are all true, and the things that seem sort of normal and likely are made up. The more outlandish things in the show, they’re always real." This explains the "fiction inspired by true stories" disclaimer you see at the start of each episode, promising a wild ride that’s often stranger than fiction!

"The more outlandish things in the show, they’re always real."

— Steven Knight, Creator and Writer of 'House of Guinness'

Meet the Guinness Dynasty: A Family Divided by Fortune and Ambition

At the heart of House of Guinness are the four siblings, each grappling with their father's legacy in their own way. We've got Arthur Guinness (Anthony Boyle), the eldest, who is portrayed with a "brooding intensity." He’s the reluctant heir, a politician who embodies the conflict between family loyalty and the burgeoning political currents threatening Ireland. He's described as the "heart or the body of the story," and his personal struggles, including a presumed gay identity in a repressive era, add layers of tension to his journey.

Then there's Edward Guinness (Louis Partridge), the ambitious second son. He’s "all cold ambition and calculation," the "brainy" strategist who prefers to work behind the scenes. Edward isn't just about profit; he starts implementing radical workers' rights and protections, much to the confusion of high society. Partridge, despite being "basically a fetus," is lauded for being "mesmerizing" and impossible to take your eyes off.

Anne Plunket (née Guinness) (Emily Fairn) is the intelligent daughter, "understated brilliance" making her the show's "moral core." Despite being sidelined by gendered expectations of the era, Anne fights for her voice, and her defiance becomes an "early feminist gesture," showcasing women as the true "powerhouses within a family" who often channeled their wealth into good works. Finally, Benjamin Lee Guinness II (Fionn O'Shea) is the youngest, who descends into laudanum dependency, a symbolic reflection of a society intoxicated by wealth.

Beyond the core siblings, other notable characters include Sean Rafferty (James Norton), the "very yummy" family enforcer, and Lady Olivia Hedges (Danielle Galligan), a cash-poor-but-title-rich potential wife for Arthur, described as "awful, and I love her." We also see Ellen Cochrane (Niamh McCormack), a Fenian creating problems for the family, and Aunt Agnes (Dervla Kirwan), an old-school, motherly figure. Keep an eye out for Jack Gleeson as a Guinness relation, who reportedly "eats his heart out of every scene!"

A Visually Stunning, Yet Sometimes Flawed, Historical Tapestry

The visual grandeur of House of Guinness is definitely one of its strong suits. The costumes, designed by Edward K. Gibbon (known for Harlots Season 1), have garnered significant praise, particularly for the menswear. The tailoring is "chef's kiss," with perfectly turned lapels and smoothly set sleeve heads, exemplified by Arthur's coat with its "sumptuous shearling lapel collar." The distinct styles for Arthur (a bit of a fop) and Edward (more restrained) help define their characters.

Women’s costuming also shines, especially in capturing the transitional fashion of 1868-1871. This era saw the silhouette shift from bell-shaped hoops to more swept-back elliptical ones, with bodices extending over the hips. Lady Olivia Hedges' introduction dress "nailed the whole silhouette perfectly," and Anne's elegant mourning and half-mourning styles were also applauded. However, not everything was perfect. Some reviewers found Ellen Cochrane’s "wild Irish lass" look, particularly her unkempt hair, a bit "cringey," and Lady Olivia’s wedding dress was criticized for being akin to "David's Bridal bullshit," a jarring contrast to the otherwise exquisite period attire.

Beyond the Brewery Walls: Social Commentary and Hidden Truths

House of Guinness is far more than just a lavish family drama; it’s a critique of power, class, and identity, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 19th-century Ireland. The brewery itself becomes a potent symbol of capitalist morality, where profits flow from both Irish soil and Irish suffering, highlighting the stark contrast between the Guinness family's wealth and the laborers who can barely afford their own product.

The series deftly navigates the political unrest of the time, with the Fenian Brotherhood forming an increasingly formidable force against Anglo-Irish politics. The expansion of the brewing empire into New York also underscores the complex duality of the Guinness legacy – an Irish name that became a British symbol, representing both national pride and imperial reach. The show also delves into the suffocating moral codes of Victorian society, particularly through Arthur's hidden sexuality and his "marriage blanc" (a marriage of convenience that surprisingly evolves into a loving relationship). It’s a compelling look at the personal and political implications of living an authentic life in a repressive era.

An Unexpected (and NSFW) Moment in Episode 3

For those who love a bit of unexpected drama (and nudity), word has it that Anthony Boyle, who plays Arthur Guinness, has a very revealing moment in episode 3. It’s certainly caused a stir online, with fans debating whether it’s prosthetic or natural. If you're curious and ready for something "VERY EXTREMELY NSFW," a Reddit post (as mentioned in one of our sources) supposedly details the scene. Consider yourselves warned!

Step Inside the Grandeur: Filming Locations You Can Visit

While House of Guinness is firmly set in Ireland, much of its opulent look was captured in the North West of England and Wales. The stunning country home of the Guinness family, which Edward Guinness visits, is based on the real Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland. However, for the show, it was actually filmed at the majestic Penrhyn Castle in Wales.

Exploring Penrhyn Castle: A Grand Filming Location for Historical Dramas

Penrhyn Castle, built in the early 19th century, was chosen for its striking similarities to Ashford Castle – both were designed to appear much older than they actually are, making it a perfect fit for the reputation-conscious Guinness family. This impressive castle was historically home to the Pennant Family, whose wealth derived from the Welsh slate industry and sugar plantations in Africa, a legacy the National Trust is now actively addressing.

If you're inspired to visit, Penrhyn Castle is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, with last entry at 3:15 pm, and an adult entry fee of £18.70. You can explore the Pennant family library, bedrooms, and the decadently designed drawing room, with its silk-upholstered furniture and luxurious pink accents. Outside, wander through the Walled Garden and Chapel Garden. For drivers, the castle is signposted from Junction 11 of the A55 and A5 to Llandygai. Public transport is also available, with bus services from Bangor and Caernarfon.

So, Is 'House of Guinness' Worth the Binge-Watch on Netflix?

Absolutely! Despite some initial mixed reactions (some finding it slow to start, others loving it immediately), the critical response has been "rather positive." Many compare it to HBO's megahit Succession, another show about a powerful family battling for control after a patriarch's death. While one reviewer wished for more of Succession's dark humor, House of Guinness certainly delivers on the drama, intrigue, and even "surprisingly violent sequences."

It's a "slow, smouldering tension" that ferments like an empire, growing "darker it grows" with each episode. Steven Knight has crafted a "politically alive and psychologically modern" period piece that invites viewers to question the true cost of progress and who truly pays for it. If you're looking for a rich, complex, and visually stunning historical drama that's full of moral ambiguity and compelling characters, then House of Guinness should definitely be next on your Netflix list. With a positive reception, we're certainly hopeful for a Season 2 to continue this intoxicating saga!

Frequently Asked Questions About House of Guinness

Where can I watch House of Guinness?

The full eight-episode first season of House of Guinness is exclusively streaming on Netflix.

How historically accurate is House of Guinness?

The series is "fiction inspired by true stories." Creator Steven Knight stated that the most outlandish plot points are often rooted in real history, while some "normal" elements are fictionalized. While it aims for a "true to life critique," some critics suggest it occasionally romanticizes history and glosses over certain political truths.

What time period is House of Guinness set in?

The show primarily begins in the 1860s, specifically around 1868, and progresses through the early 1870s, showcasing the transitional period in fashion and society.

Will there be a House of Guinness Season 2?

While not officially confirmed, the critical response has been positive, and many reviewers are hopeful for a second season to continue the Guinness family's saga. Stay tuned for official announcements from Netflix!

Sources

• Various news outlets and reviews covering "House of Guinness" (Published October 2025)