Top 20 Pubs to Experience in Ireland

The Irish pub is an essential part of Ireland’s culture, and it is within these walls that you can enjoy creamy pints, find the coziest snugs, and experience the friendliest of welcomes. Ireland is home to more than 7,000 pubs, many of which serve food and are open late into the night, hosting unbeatable Irish music sessions.

Here are 20 iconic pubs you should not miss during your trip. Anyone for a pint of creamy Guinness?

The Gravediggers, Dublin

Ciarán Kavanagh behind the bar in Kavanaghs, known to Dubliners as The Gravediggers © Kavanaghs

Known for: An excellent pint and Irish tapas

A much-loved establishment with not a television in sight, conversation is key here at The Gravediggers. Run by the Kavanagh family since it opened, this pub is notable for its location within the wall of Glasnevin Cemetery, where gravediggers would come for a drink after their labor. Head into the lounge to sample what’s best described as Irish and continental tapas.

Teach Hiúdaí Beag, County Donegal

Musicians at a traditional Irish music session in Teach Hiúdaí Donegal © Teach Hiúdaí

Known for: Traditional sessions every Monday and Friday night

Musicians travel from far to Teach Hiúdaí Beag in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht, where Irish is the main language spoken. The weekly traditional music sessions are legendary, and visitors can explore the nearby beautiful beaches after a night of fun.

De Barra’s Folk Club, Clonakilty, County Cork

DeBarras pub and folk club in Clonakilty is part of a musical movement in west Cork © DeBarras

Known for: Being the ‘Carnegie Hall’ of Cork

Entering De Barra’s is like stepping into a musical history museum. The venue has hosted every Irish folk musician imaginable. Relish your pint and take in the surroundings, as the bar is adorned with musical artifacts from all over the world.

The Moorings, Dungarvan, County Waterford

The Moorings overlooks the picturesque harbor of Dungarvan in County Waterford © The Moorings

Known for: Gin cocktails overlooking the sea

The Moorings in Dungarvan provides a splendid view of the harbor, making it a perfect reward after cycling the nearby Waterford greenway. Their seafood chowder is a must-try, complemented by an extensive range of gin cocktails.

O’Connell’s, Skryne, County Meath

O’Connell’s in Co Meath © Rachel O’Connell

Known for: Being the pub featured in Guinness’s Christmas advertisement

With 170 years of family history, O’Connell’s retains its charm by having no TV or internet access. This historic pub is a great place to enjoy a pint while embracing the timeless tradition of conversation among patrons.

Dick Mack’s, Dingle, County Kerry

Dick Mack’s pub in Dingle has been operating since 1899 © Dick Mack’s

Known for: The newly opened and very popular brewhouse

Dick Mack’s is a fascinating dual-function pub, combining a leather shop with a fine selection of drinks. It offers brewery tours twice a day, making it a unique experience among locals and tourists alike.

Morrissey’s, Abbeyleix, County Laois

Morrissey’s pub and grocery in Abbeyleix © Oliver Strewe / Getty Images

Known for: Transporting you back in time to the 1900s

Morrissey’s has stood the test of modernization since 1775, offering a quirky mix of oddities and a cozy atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a drink while soaking up the history of the pub’s past.

Thomas Connolly, Sligo town

A pint of the finest in Thomas Connolly’s heritage pub, Sligo town © Thomas Connolly

Known for: An extensive whiskey list

Thomas Connolly is famous for its warm welcomes, excellent pints of stout, and a selection of over 200 premium Irish whiskeys. It is a popular spot among locals and visitors as it provides a great atmosphere for enjoying traditional music.

JJ Houghs Singing Pub, Banagher, County Offaly

JJ Houghs Singing Pub in Banagher home of the finest espresso martinis in County Offaly © JJ Houghs

Known for: A great stopping off point for boating on the River Shannon

JJ Houghs is celebrated for its charm and the warm welcome of its owner. It’s a favorite among boaters on the River Shannon and offers delicious cocktails and a vibrant ambiance.

The Rusty Mackerel, County Donegal

The Rusty Mackerel pub in Donegal is surrounded by breathtaking scenery © The Rusty Mackerel

Known for: Serving fresh fish caught at night

This traditional Irish bar serves excellent drinks and mouth-watering seasonal food. With its incredible location, the pub is a perfect spot to enjoy local seafood after a long day of exploring.

Street 66, Dublin

Tucked away off a Temple Bar side street is the brilliant Street 66 © Street 66

Known for: An atmospheric LGBTQ+ bar with great music

This LGBTQ+ bar is a safe space where you can enjoy good coffee, refreshing drinks, or dance to uplifting tunes. Its inviting atmosphere and dog-friendly policy make it a much-loved spot for both locals and tourists.

Sunflower Public House, Belfast

The cheeky sign ‘No topless bathing, Ulster has suffered enough’ adorns the outside wall of The Sunflower © The Sunflower

Known for: A cultural hub with plenty of history

The Sunflower Public House is instantly recognizable from its 1980s relics, maintaining its essence as a simple corner pub, where you can enjoy a good pint in an atmosphere steeped in history.

Tigh Neachtain, Galway city

Tigh Neachtain is located right in the heart of Galway City © Tigh Neachtain

Known for: Unforgettable music sessions

This beloved pub in Galway has been serving pints since 1894. With live music sessions and a cozy outdoor area, Tigh Neachtain is a cultural hotspot that attracts both locals and visitors alike.

O’Loclainn’s Irish GoTravelDaily Bar, Ballyvaughan, County Clare

O’Loclainn’s Irish GoTravelDaily Bar proudly displays its aged whiskey library © O’Loclainn’s

Known for: Margaret’s incredible whiskey knowledge

At O’Loclainn’s, visitors can enjoy a magical tipple in a quaint setting. With an extensive selection of whiskeys and knowledgeable staff, it’s an excellent place for enthusiasts to learn about and sample exquisite spirits.

Clarkes Bar, Drogheda, County Louth

Clarkes in Drogheda has been associated with the arts for generations © Clarke & Sons

Known for: Escaping to candlelit nooks and crannies

This small pub boasts a cozy atmosphere enhanced by candlelight and music. Clarkes Bar has long been associated with the arts and provides a perfect escape for those seeking authenticity in a celebrated locale.

Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

One of the most well-recognized Victorian-era pubs in Ireland © Blakes of the Hollow

Known for: Game of Thrones carved door

Blakes of the Hollow, with its Victorian charm, provides a cozy setting for a perfect pint. Its unique Game of Thrones door makes it a popular photo spot for fans of the series.

The Cobblestone, Smithfield, Dublin

Known for: Calling itself a ‘drinking pub with a music problem’

This pub is a must-visit for those seeking traditional Irish music. With a lively atmosphere and vibrant music sessions, The Cobblestone is deeply respected within the local community.

Mother Macs, Limerick City

Mother Macs building in Limerick dates from 1787 and has served many purposes down through the years © Mother Macs

Known for: Its large range of refreshing craft beers

Located in an iconic building from the 1700s, Mother Macs has an impressive selection of over 150 Irish whiskeys and craft beers. Although there is no food served, this is the perfect spot to sample local drinks.

The Duke of York, Belfast

Take your pint outside to the popular cobbled laneway outside the Duke of York © 500px

Known for: A pint in the sun

Nestled down a cobbled lane in Belfast city center, the Duke of York is renowned for its flowers and memorabilia. With a locals’ vibe, it offers a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking up the atmosphere.

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