Our Favorite 33 Pubs in Ireland: The Good, The Better & The Best!

No visit to Ireland is complete without spending time in one of the iconic pubs. In Ireland, you’ll experience the hospitality and friendliness for which the Irish are renowned and possibly get to listen to some beautiful traditional folk music.

Some of these pubs have even inspired artists and appeared as the backdrop to works of literature, film, music, and song. The pubs in Ireland scene is internationally notorious, and with good reasons.

The best pubs are often old, creeky and full of charming nooks and crannies, or simply the place to get the best pint. And because it’s hard to know where you’ll find the perfect pint and a plate of hearty home cooking, here are our favourite pubs in the entire Emerald Isle!

Here are our Favorite Pubs in Ireland:

Sean’s Bar — Athlone, County Westmeath

Sean’s Bar in Athlone is not only the oldest pub in Ireland but also the oldest pub in the world, as certified by Guinness World Records. The pub is an ancient landmark of Ireland that dates back to 900 A.D., with walls made of wattle and wicker dating back to that time.

Located in Shannon-side Athlone, it’s a simple and rugged place with little glam but a fantastic and vibrant beer garden and an enthusiastic clientele. Nowadays, the pub is one of the cosiest pubs in Ireland, complete with an open fire and a random assortment of décor, from fishing rods to framed certificates on the walls.

They are very friendly and welcome locals and foreigners with open arms, so you must visit them if you’re passing through town.

Astonishingly, the pub predates the 12th-century Norman Castle adjacent to it by more than 200 years, with its stone-clad walls embodying ancient Ireland before the country could even be a whole, united country (it was a collection of kingdoms).

O’Loclainn’s — Ballyvaughan, County Clare

Hidden in the corners of a somewhat meek street is one of the best pubs in Ireland. O’Loclainn’s is recognised by food and travel gurus as a special place where you will enjoy your time.

From the inside, the pub looks like a small square-ish room with a few seats, so it might not be suited for a large group of people. However, you will also find a phenomenal combination of dozens of whiskeys ranged along shelves, all giving a seamless band beautiful glow of light inside the pub.

Tigh Neachtain’s — Galway City

Established in 1894, Tigh Neachtain’s offers excellent pints of Guinness and over 100 whiskey selections. It’s an old-world pub with a dimly lit interior, open fires, and a cosy dining area.

The pub is renowned for supporting local cultural festivals and groups and hosting regular traditional music sessions. Neachtain’s also has an excellent and comfortable outdoor table area for when the weather is good.

The Blackbird — County Cork

Ballycotton is known as a picturesque fishing village in East Cork, where the astonishing Blackbird Pub is located. The pub is well worth a detour off the tourist trail. Why? For starters, they serve a delicious pint of Guinness, and the Whiskey is also excellent.

It’s a great spot in the summer with a beer garden and food truck-style kitchen out the back and a stove inside to keep you well disposed of during the summer months. They serve homemade, locally sourced food and have an incredible live music scene with class acts playing in their “backroom”.

Bushe’s Bar — County Cork

If you go to West Cork and ask anyone about Bushe’s Bar, they will most likely know its location and where to guide you. Bushe’s bar is an institution in West Cork with rich, vivid views on warm summer/winter nights. You can expect live music outside the square during summer and a lovely log fire to warm up during winter.

Indulge in delicious seafood sandwiches (all imported from Baltimore) and ice-cold pints with a view, and you won’t be disappointed. With some of the lowest drinks prices in Ireland, Bushes of Baltimore is the perfect pub for a pint or two any time of the year.

The Stag’s Head — Dublin

Considered one of the oldest pubs in Ireland, The Stag’s Head is a landmark in Dublin. Its interior is characterised by the typically urban Irish Victorian pub style.

The pub first attained superseding fame in the 1830s when it was named ‘John Bull’s Albion Hotel and Tavern’. This was one of the most sought-after premises of that age because it was near the iconic Dublin Theatreland and the fashionable stores of Dame Street and College Green.

While it’s true that The Stag’s Head dates back a few centuries, it was rebuilt in 1895 by renowned architects. He intended to design the pub with stag-themed stained glass windows, mirrors, and wood panels, and of course, you can find a large stag’s head right over the bar.

Additionally, the main area is a long, spacious room with a bar of polished mahogany, walnut, and Connemara marble and a highly decorated ceiling above. The lavishly designed pub was frequented by many public figures of the past centuries, such as the author James Joyce.

The Stag’s Head has been awarded Best Pub in Ireland by National Hospitality 2016 and Best Traditional Pub in Ireland by Sky Bar Awards 2016.

O’Riada’s — Kilkenny

It is one of the oldest ancient pubs in Kilkenny – and it doesn’t get more traditional than O’Riada’s.

Tiny, often crowded, strangely labyrinthine and plastered with local GAA announcements and other such community services, this small, charming pub is a great place to go and catch up with a friend for a chat and a pint after a long day. The Guinness is exceptional.

Sit on the wooden picnic bench-style tables at the back or prop yourself up at the pub, where the friendly staff will likely hum to anything from Fleetwood Mac to Bon Jovi. The pub usually attracts a regular local crowd and won’t be overrun with tourists.

The Brazen Head — Dublin

On The Brazen Head’s official website, you will find a text stating it’s Ireland’s oldest pub. That’s arguable, considering that Sean’s Bar holds this title. Alas, The Brazen Head is ancient, dating back to 1198.

It’s more than old enough, of course, and while the Brazen Head has countless beautiful signs of ageing, it’s unclear how much of the original structure remains. But no worries—the pub has retained an authentic Irish pub feel. You will find some century-old graffiti on its walls.

The Brazen Head is not far from the Guinness brewery at nearby St. James’ Gate, so be sure they never run out of pints.

Old patrons of the pub include public figures such as James Joyce, Brendan Behan and Jonathan Swift, as well as noted revolutionaries such as Robert Emmet, Wolfe Tone, Daniel O’Connell and Michael Collins. Rest assured, you’ll find the best in traditional Dublin dishes on the menu, too.

Smugglers Creek — County Donegal

Established in 1845, the pub has seen few storms and smugglers. Upon arrival at Smugglers Creek Inn, you will be instantly impressed with the warm and welcoming atmosphere and the panoramic view from every corner. Since 2009, Emily Browne has owned the pub.

What’s fascinating about Smuggler’s Creek is that it is a roadside pub along the Wild Atlantic Way—one of Ireland’s most famous drives—and looks down on the spectacular Rossnowlagh Beach.

This pub and restaurant are high on a hill over one of Donegal’s best surf spots and serve terrific seafood dishes. Sit outside with a pint, munching on freshly caught scampi, and watch the waves roll in from the Atlantic. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins in the distance!

The Bernard Shaw — Dublin

If you’re thirsty or hungry or looking to play pool in a graffiti-soaked wonderland with your mates, The Bernard Shaw is right up your alley.

One of Dublin’s most famous pubs, and for good reason, the Bernard Shaw is a true gem in the city. It has a spacious beer garden and its famous Big Blue Bus, which also doubles as a pizzeria. Popular with a younger crowd, expect great music, delicious pizza, and a wide range of craft beers.

It is also a great spot to watch significant sporting events like the All-Ireland Football Final. The pub is alive after dark other than any time of the day. The back area is the pub’s best feature, the perfect spot to relax with your mates on long benches and forget your worries.

Mutton Lane Inn — Cork City

A much-admired Cork Pub, the Mutton Lane Inn is probably one of the oldest drinking establishments in the city. Situated off St. Patrick’s Street, it is one of many alleyways that lead into the famed English Market. It used to be where live sheep were run into the market simultaneously.

The pub is characterised by its distinctive mural and beer kegs on which to sit. This quiet, dim, candle-lit pub lends itself to a conversation with many wooden features highlighted by flickering candlelight.

The inn often has music, and there is no television. Conversation and camaraderie are vital aspects of the Mutton Lane Inn. It’s always busy, but you may not want to leave if you’re lucky enough to get a seat.

Mulligan’s of Poolbeg St — Dublin

One of the many places reputed to serve the best Guinness in Ireland, Mulligans is among the last remaining big-name Dublin pubs that hasn’t been dressed up into something else. The pub is a minute’s walk from the main thoroughfare, O’Connell Street and has been at the core of the city’s cultural and spiritual life for nearly 300 years.

The only modern thing you will find is a large TV, presumably installed to give the attendees something to shout at.

Mulligans has long been a tremendous theatrical pub for public figures from the political and literary spheres. In the mid-1950s, John F. Kennedy, a journalist with the Hearst Newspaper, visited Mulligans. Thousands have come since and are still coming to pay homage to the literary shrine.

Jolly Roger — Sherkin Island

Not far from Ireland’s southernmost point, the Jolly Roger is a traditional island pub and restaurant on West Cork’s Sherkin Island. A well-known drinking establishment in the area, there’s daily live music throughout the summer to entertain visitors, and the pub serves a range of craft beer and stout.

Their seafood is terrific: Lobsters are served locally fresh and all day, smoked fish, West Cork’s artisan cheeses, and organic produce from Sherkin Island.

The Barge Pub — Dublin

If you live/work in or near Dublin city centre and it happens to be a sunny, warm day, one of the first places you’ll think of flocking to is the Barge Pub. Perhaps you will even find a large crowd of people sitting outside it.

The Barge is one of Dublin’s most popular spots in the summer. It is perfect for pints in the rare Irish sunshine, and the wide screens present there could also be useful for watching big sporting events.

They also serve an excellent daily roast, and their brunch is well worth getting out of bed for at the weekend. For extra daylight, try their creamy seafood chowder or cheese nachos.

Kyteler’s Inn — Kilkenny

Kyteler’s Inn in Kilkenny is one of the oldest inns in Ireland and a truly historical venue with an intriguing background. IKyteler’s is nothing short of fascinating; one wall, in particular, feels like staring out from the interior of an old castle, with stained glass windows, wooden shields, swords, and animal heads.

The pub dates back to the 14th century and trades as a ‘medieval pub’, though the food is more of a nod to Irish farm tradition, and the beer is close to the typical of what you’ll find around Ireland. It’s well worth a stop off sheer entertainment and decorations.

Tom Barry’s — Cork

Situated in a lane in Cork city famous for having a high density of pubs, Tom Barry’s is one of Cork’s most popular drinking holes. It’s not strange for the pub to often appear on ‘Best Irish Pubs’ lists or have it recommended to you by locals.

The pub was previously known as The Caheragh Bar until half of the last century. It was renamed Tom Barry’s afterwards, and Tom himself oversaw the pub’s expansion in the previous few decades and helped turn it into one of the city’s most beloved watering holes. He sadly passed away in 2015, but the pub has continued to thrive while still keeping his memory alive.

The pub is arguably best known for its stunning beer garden, a fixture since the mid-1990s. With a flower display tended to by Tom’s mother and an unmatched view, it quickly became one of the pub’s main draws and marked it as a destination of sorts.

If you’re lucky, a fire might be burning in one of the snugs to keep you warm, and there are free board games to keep you occupied on long winter nights (or rainy summer days).

The Temple Bar — Dublin City

There is never a dull moment at Dublin’s Temple Bar. Located right beside the River Liffey, this brightly-painted pub is beloved by tourists. The neighbourhood includes some great galleries, cafés and cultural spots aside from the general drinking atmosphere and all-around fun.

But first, some history. Temple Bar has always been a popular spot – the Vikings set up camp there as far back as 795 A.D. And you can still witness their settled remains today. Fast forward to the 17th century, when British politician Sir William Temple built his grand residence and gardens on the site; the name stuck, and Temple Bar was born.

Temple Bar is probably best known for its nightlife, the party hub of Dublin’s city centre. But far from being the first choice for hen parties, many exciting clubs, pubs, and venues are on offer.

When the sun goes down, the volume goes up. Street musicians play their hearts out for the revellers hopping from pub to pub. The rhythmic sounds of Irish traditional music may tempt you in for a pint and a dance inside The Temple.

O’Connells — Portobello, Dublin

Drawing a mix of locals from Portobello and visitors from outside Ireland, O’Connell’s is a great place to grab a quick drink. If you’re lucky, you’ll get table service, and on extraordinary nights, landlord Eddie gets out the karaoke machine for a sublime night of entertainment. This is definitely one of the best Pubs in Ireland.

We can’t say it better than this Yelp reviewer: “Like all good-standing and character pubs, it has an incredibly efficient layout. It’s a warren of cubby holes, secret passages, old cookers, and wondersome signposting. Brilliant.”

De Barra’s Folk Club — Cork

One of the other not-to-miss Pubs in Ireland is De Barra’s Folk Club in Clonakilty, which has established itself as one of the most popular live music pubs in County Cork. A past winner of the Live Music Venue of The Year award and Ireland’s number-one folk club, many national and international musicians have started in De Barra’s.

They still return now and then to play to a more intimate crowd, so you never know who you might get to watch. Popular with local musicians for over 30 years, this is a pub worth travelling for.

Teach Ósta — Inis Meáin

Inis Meáin is one of the three Aran Islands (the one in the middle), and Teach Ósta is the only pub on the island. The other two islands, Inis Mór and Inis Oírr, receive more attention as tourist destinations, but Inis Meáin is worth a trip.

Teach Ósta is like the social hub for the (tiny) population of the three islands. Reaching the island will take a lengthy drive from Galway and a ferry across the sea. Live music plays most nights in the summer, with plenty of weekend sessions dotted throughout the rest of the year.

The Old Thatch — Killeagh, County Cork

It’s not as ancient as the previous entries on our list, but The Old Thatch is no slouch, having opened way back in the early 18^th century. The Thatch is a proper Irish village pub with all the little quirks you’d want from such a place and tucked well away from the tourist trail. Named for its thatched roof, it has a rich history.

It has been operating as a public house since 1650. The pub is filled with quirks and oddities that hint at the building’s storied past. For instance, a deer head caught by a previous owner in 1851 is mounted on the wall. There are stone walls and old barrels still visible behind the bar.

McGann’s Pub — County Clare

A well-known traditional music pub in County Clare, McGann’s is a great place to grab a drink after sightseeing at the Cliffs of Moher or after staying at the beach.

This small and cosy pub is known for its warm, hearty Irish food and daily live music sessions. If you’re lucky enough, you might also witness impromptu music sessions with local artists.

Mayou’reloy’s — Westport

A lMolloy’s colourful pub in Westport, County Mayo, along the Wild Atlantic Way, established in 1896, is now owned by one of the famous band The Chieftains members.

Matt Molloy’s is an excellent place to practice traditional music and maybe join a dance. Mingle with people from all over the world and listen to a melange of different languages. It has a conventional interior with flagstone floors, painted wood-panelled walls, and a cosy fire. It is a notable music venue with a warm atmosphere.

Serving very reasonably priced drinks, find yourself here any day of the week, and you’re guaranteed to have lots of fun.

L Mulligan Grocer — Stoneybatter, Dublin

Stoneybatter is a vivid and unique little Dublin area that makes the city so quirky. A couple of decades ago, it was just rough, but with families and young professionals struggling to find homes in the city, it is now quickly turning into one of Dublin’s trendiest areas.

One of the trailblazers of the craft beer movement in Dublin, L Mulligan Grocer features a phenomenal selection of drinks, great food, and friendly faces at the pub. Also, if you fancy a change of scene, it’s just a hop, skips, it’s a jump from the always-excellent Walsh’s down the road.

Walsh’sthe Mills — County TO’perary

Imagine this… A pub that only opens one night a week was named Ireland’s Best Pub by tIreland’sTimes. Pretty weird, right? Opening only on Thursdays, Jim O’ the Mill is a compact affair with just a single beer tap.

Plenty of live music includes fiddles, boxes, and bodhráns brought along by the locals, often provided by one of the family’s five daughters. Families should be welcomed in lYou’lle of the Ryan family who runs the place, assuming you can Thisssion, this pub is pre because of its old style, open fire, and legendary trad sessions unique.

The pub itself has only one tap: Guinness. Other beer and spirits bottles are available, but anyone wanting a pint must settle for the black stuff.

O Donoghue’s — Dublin

IO’Donoghue’soghue is not the capital of oO’Donoghuein but has a vigorous history. It is renowned as a world-class music pub, and the trad sessions held in its front bar are excellent.

The pub feels untouched since their time, with those nightly sessions still firing ahead, the Guinness flowing, and the backroom so old-school it almost feels like a Victorian classroom rather than a pub. You can even stay here, though, unless you plan to have a few; we’re not sure we’d recommend it.

Jerrwe’dannery’s Bar — County Limerick

A popular venue for all sports lovers in Limerick, Jerry Flanner’s Bar is one of Flanner’s set in the city. The owner himself is a former Irish rugby player. The pub also boasts the most extensive whiskey menu in Limerick and can be headed to after or before attending a match at the neighbouring Thomond Park Stadium.

There’s a nice little there looking for some private to hang out; otherwise, expect to mix with a fun, sports-loving young crowd, especially at weekends. The beef stew is melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Brennan’s Criterion BarBrennan’san, County Donegal

Brennan’s Criterion BarBrennan’sn St. Patrick’s Day in 1900. Patrick’s has been run by the elderly sisters Patricia and the late Nan Brennan. The pub recently appeared in a national ad campaign for Guinness.

The interior is remarkable. It’s a charming old house that the owners live in. To encourage conversation, there is a strict ban on televisions, music, and swearing!

Top of Coom — County Kerry

Located over 1000ft above sea level and on the border between County Cork and County Kerry, Top of the Coom claims the title of Ireland’s highest pub. Ireland was signed by a devastating fire a few years back, but it was reopened in 2014 and has been back strong.

Top of the Coom has been an institution for over a century and has been in the current owner’s family for fiveowners’tions. The journey itself can be challenging and requires resilience, but once you get there, you will find how fulfilling it is for the lovely atmosphere, the great pints, and the vast, wonderful nature.

The Forge — County Donegal

Right in the heart of Donegal Town and just across the river from Donegal Castle lies The Forge Pub, winner of the pub of the Year award in the Ulster Regional Awards 2018. Once you’re inside, you’ll quickly understand why.

You’re a true gem in the city, with a spacious beer garden and a wide range of craft beers. Even if you’re briefly in town, you have the best sights of northwest Ireland off your bucket list; pass by The Forge.

Gings Bar — County Leitrim

Right beside the pretty River Shannon, Ging’s Bar is one of the fascinating Irish pubs in the Midlands. It dates back over 130 years, and besides the vast riverside beer garden, people love this bar for its live music, old jukebox and pool tables.

The pub is also a great place to stop for a quick break if you’re just passing through Thurrock-On-Shannon. Moreover, the pub has many spectacular features, including a dazzling beer garden on a sunny day.

Right beside the water, the sun hits it perfectly when it’s out. And if you loathe another way, you have a gorgeous view of the bridge. It’s up there with IrelIt’s best pubs, by Ireland’s sunts.

Dick Mack’s — County Kerry

PMack’s with locals and tourists alike, Dick Mack’s is one of a kindMack’she sort of place you could easily spend an entire afternoon at. Don’t be surprised if you’re some famous faces at the pub or end up chatting with the owner.

Full of characters, conversation and a wide variety of whiskeys, this is the only place to go in Dingle for guaranteed craic.

Glyde Inn — County Louth

The Glyde Inn is an authentic and striking pub in County Louth that dates back to 1770. Paul and Ann O’Neill bought it in 19 O’Neill and operated it entirely.

The Glyde quickly became a destination hub for fantastic food, drinks, and music. In 2008, the O’Neills extended the pO’Neills to include the Linn Duachaill Restaurant and a Bed and Breakfast overlooking Dundalk Bay and the Mountains of Mourne.

Paul and Ann manage the B&B, and their son Conor manages the restaurant and pub. The award-winning menu includes seafood caught by fishermen in Dundalk Bay and Carlingford. Each September, The Glyde Inn hosts The Taste of Togher Festival as part of The Discover Boyne Valley Flavours events.

The Glyde Inn won the Irish Pub of the Year title at the official Irish Pub Awards and took home the Best Food Pub of the Year award.

Feel free to post your personal pub count and your favourite pub in Ireland in the comments. Which is it?

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