The Irish pub is a cornerstone of Irish social culture. Pubs are a meeting point for friends and relatives, or simply those who wish to sit over a quiet pint alone to relax and unwind. The pub is a place to drink, enjoy a hearty meal, listen to music, and maybe even dance into the night.
In this article, we will explore four famous pubs dotted across the Emerald Isle.
The Temple Bar, Dublin
Named after the area of Dublin City where the pub is located, the Temple Bar is arguably the most well-known pub in Ireland. It’s bright red exterior is a great photo spot for tourists who visit the famous bar while exploring Dublin. Inside, traditional Irish music can be heard 7 nights a week and the bar is well stocked with a wide selection of Irish whiskey and of course creamy pints of Guinness.
J.M. Reidy’s, Killarney
No trip to County Kerry is complete without a visit to the picturesque town of Killarney. On the Main Street, J.M. Reidy’s is a must stop for great food and tasty cocktails. The front part of the bar features memorabilia of days gone by including original sweet jars that were once sold in the bar, which originally doubled as a grocers and sweet shop. The bar is a time machine to the Ireland of the 19th century.
Sean’s Bar, Athlone
Sean’s Bar in Athlone, County Westmeath holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest pub in Europe. The bar dates back as far as 900AD. The bar stands next to a Norman castle which it predates by 200 years!
With such rich history within its walls, it is no surprise that Sean’s Bar is popular with locals and tourists alike. At Sean’s, live music is played 7 nights a week. The bar features an open fireplace and sawdust covered floors, reminding customers of the history within. They even have their own signature Irish whiskey. This simple pub is cosy and welcoming, featuring an outside courtyard for sunny days.
O’Connor’s, Galway
O’Connor’s Famous Pub is located just next to the beautiful sands of Salthill, not far from Galway City Centre. The bar has been popular for locals and tourists alike since it opened in the 1940s. It’s walls are adorned with bric-a-brac collected by the family who have owned the pub for 3 generations.
O’Connor’s was put on the map in 2017 when singer Ed Sheeran filmed the music video to his hit single Galway Girl inside the pub. The video captures the warm and friendly atmosphere that can be found at the pub, as traditional musicians play along to the track and customers dance together.
With pub culture being such a large part of Irish life, a warm welcome can be found in any pub, no matter how small the town. There are currently over 1,000 pubs on the island of Ireland, and there are many types of pub to be explored and enjoyed.
Where ever you go, you can be sure to expect céad míle fáilte (one hundred thousand welcomes) that the Irish are known for!
