Ireland trip: unmissable pubs to discover
It's impossible to imagine a trip to Ireland without visiting a pub! Emblematic symbols of the country, Irish pubs are considered by locals as true pillars of social life.
It's impossible to imagine a trip to Ireland without visiting a pub! Emblematic symbols of the country, Irish pubs are considered by locals as true pillars of social life. People come to have a drink, grab a bite, dance and sing but above all to spend a convivial moment in an atypical setting. Discover our top 5 of the best pubs to explore in Ireland.
1. The Temple Bar in Dublin
It's undoubtedly the most famous Irish pub among tourists. Located at the entrance of the famous Temple Bar district in Dublin, you won't miss its bright red storefront! On site, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of beers and whiskeys as well as various dishes of Irish cuisine. As for atmosphere, you'll be captivated by the genuine stage where numerous traditional music concerts are regularly held. Perfect for your first taste of Irish immersion…
2. Sean's Bar in Athlone
Located 130 km west of Dublin, in the town of Athlone, Sean's Bar is said to be the oldest pub in Ireland. The Guinness Book of Records registered it as such in 2004. Indeed, the walls are believed to have been built around 900 AD and the pub is said to have opened in 1198. One thing is certain: it has captured the hearts of Irish people and visitors for several centuries thanks to its warm and festive atmosphere. As an interesting tidbit, the bar holds the record for the number of owners since its creation according to Frommer's Travel Guide. In the 1980s, it was even owned by singer Boy George.
3. McHugh's bar in Belfast
Built in 1711 as a private residence on the old Town Dock before being converted into a pub a few years later (between 1715 and 1725), McHugh's bar is a must-visit during a stay in Belfast. And for good reason: it's housed in the oldest building in the city of Belfast! Beyond its unique architecture, it's the perfect place to enjoy Irish dishes and drinks while listening to traditional music (and more!).
4. The Brazen Head in Dublin
Back to Dublin to discover an authentically charming pub: The Brazen Head. Perfectly located (just steps away from the famous Bridge Street), The Brazen Head ranks among the oldest pubs in Ireland. Although no proof exists, local tradition claims the site once housed a tavern in 1198. One thing is certain: the premises are steeped in history and filled with mystery… The bar was even a gathering place for secret meetings of Irish nationalists until the uprising of 1798!
5. Gallaghers Gastro Pub in Cork
To wrap up our selection of the best pubs in Ireland, we invite you to Cork. Renowned for its exceptional cuisine at excellent value for money, Gallaghers Gastro Pub is a trendy address not to be missed under any circumstance during your Ireland trip. Among the typical dishes to try, we can mention the famous Irish stew, fish pie, the celebrated fish and chips, seafood and much more… Beyond its cuisine, the bar is also renowned for its incredibly convivial and relaxed atmosphere…
Frequently asked questions
Sean's Bar in Athlone is officially recognized as the oldest pub in Ireland by the Guinness Book of Records since 2004. Its walls are believed to have been built around 900 AD and it is said to have opened its doors in 1198.
Among the must-sees in Dublin, The Temple Bar in its eponymous district is the most famous among tourists, with its traditional music concerts. The Brazen Head, one of the oldest pubs in the city, is also not to be missed for its historic atmosphere and air of mystery.
Irish pubs serve typical dishes such as Irish stew, fish pie, fish and chips, and seafood platters. Some gastro pubs, like Gallaghers Gastro Pub in Cork, offer quality cuisine at reasonable prices.
Yes, McHugh's bar is a must-visit in Belfast. Housed in the city's oldest building, built in 1711, it offers beers and Irish dishes in an authentic traditional music atmosphere.
Irish pubs are lively year-round, but the atmosphere is particularly festive during St. Patrick's Day (March 17) and throughout the summer months (June to August), which correspond to the peak tourist season in Ireland.
