13 Best Pubs in Ireland to Visit in 2025
Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage and green landscapes, but it is best known for its lively pub scene. Irish pubs offer a unique experience that combines warm hospitality, flavorful Guinness, and an atmosphere that you won’t find in any other culture. If you are planning a trip to Ireland and want to fully explore the local culture, then it’s not possible without visits to some of the most authentic Irish pubs.
In today’s blog, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best pubs in Ireland. From the iconic pubs of Dublin to the pubs of Galway and Waterford that are popular among locals, we will cover everything. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore the best Irish pubs!
13 Best Pubs in Ireland that You Must Visit
1. John Kavanagh’s The Gravediggers (Dublin)
John Kavanagh’s The Gravediggers is one of the longest-generational pubs in Ireland that embodies the essence of a “proper pub.” Established in 1833, this traditional pub has been in the Kavanagh family for generations, currently run by three generations working behind the bar.
Located in the quiet Glasnevin area, north of Dublin city center, this gem of a pub offers a unique and authentic experience. Unlike many modern pubs, you won’t find loud music or HD TVs here. Instead, the focus is on conversation and the art of good company.
The Gravediggers is renowned for serving the most authentic pints of Guinness, a hallmark of a true Irish pub. Moreover, its iconic location, next to a cemetery, adds more to its charm and character. You can visit the nearby graveyard before stopping by for a drink, and listen to the fascinating local stories behind the pub’s nickname, “The Gravediggers.”
With little changed over the years, this pub offers a glimpse into Dublin’s rich pub culture and history. If you’re looking for the ultimate traditional Irish pub experience, John Kavanagh’s The Gravediggers is a must-visit place in Dublin.
2. The Kings Head (Galway)
If you are in Galway then The Kings Head is one pub that you definitely need to visit. Not only it is one of the most iconic pubs in Ireland but also a relaxed spot where you will find chic modern art hung on the walls.
The Kings Head is a family-run business owned by the Grealish family since the late 1980s. It comprises three floors – a pub, a bistro, and a live venue. The pub’s dedication to quality has earned it several honors, including the Family Run Business of the Year award in 2023.
The Kings Head is best known for its live music and comedy shows. It provides an excellent venue for enjoying live entertainment along with good food and drinks.
Speaking of food, the pub is known for serving hearty meals. The menu features local seafood, lamb, beef, and organic vegetables. They are particularly famous for their seafood dishes, such as crab claws, mussels, king scallops, oysters, and award-winning chowder.
Moreover, you will find a good range of spirits, including signature whiskeys, local gins, craft beers, cocktails, and creamy pints of stout. Interestingly, the pub has its own craft beer called “Blood Red Ale,” brewed locally by Galway Hooker in Oranmore.
3. The Strand Bar (Sligo)
The Strand Bar in Sligo is one of the top-rated pubs in Ireland with an average rating of 4.5/5 on Google. This family-run business has been welcoming guests since 1913, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The pub is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, catering to both young and old, families and groups of friends. In the winter, the turf fire offers warm and cozy vibes, while in the summer, the al fresco seating near the bustling seafront makes it a cool hangout spot.
One of the cool things about The Strand Bar is its traditional music sessions and live bands, which create a sociable atmosphere that keeps people coming back time and again.
The pub is also renowned for its delicious food menu, featuring homemade dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The famous Guinness beef stew and fresh seafood platter are particular favorites among locals.
In addition to its food and atmosphere, The Strand Bar offers a wide range of drinks, including signature cocktails, martinis, red and white wines, and more, ensuring there’s something to suit every taste.
4. The Bloody Stream (Dublin)
For the number 4 spot, we have picked The Bloody Stream which is a famous traditional Irish pub located in the charming fishing village of Howth in Dublin. This pub has won several awards, including the award for Best Pub 2023 at The Fingal Chamber Awards.
Despite its unusual name, The Bloody Stream is a warm and inviting place. The interior looks like it’s from years ago, with a flagstone floor, a cozy fireplace for peat fires, and old signs and knick-knacks perfectly complimenting the space and offering classic Irish pub vibes.
The food menu features incredible fresh seafood dishes that the pub is known for, as well as other delicious starters, mains, and desserts. Moreover, all the items used are of high quality and locally sourced.
One of the key attractions of The Bloody Stream is its huge beer garden that can easily accommodate over 200 people. The Mediterranean-style outdoor space is perfect for sunny afternoons spent enjoying drinks and live music performances.
Every night, The Bloody Stream hosts different live music acts spanning traditional Irish folk, jazz, blues, and other popular genres. So no matter what’s your taste, you’ll find something entertaining to listen to with a pint of Guinness in your hand.
5. J. & K. Walsh Victorian Spirit Grocer (Waterford)
The J. & K. Walsh Victorian Spirit Grocer is located in Great George’s St. and is one of Waterford’s oldest and most iconic pubs. It has been around since 1899 and still looks just like it did around 125 years ago.
The interior of the pub is complemented by old wooden cabinets, brass scales, and drawers, just like an old-fashioned grocery store. This gives the pub an authentic Victorian aesthetic and vibe that is hard to find nowadays.
You can sit in the cozy “snug” area and enjoy your perfect pint of Guinness. Moreover, you can belly up to the bar on the round wooden stools. There is even a separate room where you can enjoy Victorian tea and coffee.
One of the coolest things about the pub is its 1960s beer taps that are still used to pour the draft beers. With all these amazing original details, it’s no wonder why J. & K. Walsh is considered one of the most authentic urban pubs in Ireland.
6. Vintage Cocktail Club (Dublin)
The Vintage Cocktail Club is located in the heart of Dublin’s famous Temple Bar district. Often referred to as the best pub in Dublin, VCC is a hidden gem that you must visit if you are in Dublin. Opened in 2012, this cozy bar has quickly gained recognition as one of the go-to places in Ireland and is famous for its multi-award-winning cocktail experience.
You might face some difficulty in finding the pub because the only indication of its existence is a small “VCC” sticker on a weathered door. Step inside, and you’ll be transported to the vintage era of speakeasies, aviators, and silent movie starlets.
The prime attraction of VCC is indeed their 1920s-style clandestine bar that serves nearly 80 spirit and cocktail options on the menu. The bar’s focus is on classic drinks from the early- to mid-1800s, however, you should also try their specially crafted cocktails.
We would recommend you to also try their Ceylon in the City, a spicy blend of house-made bird’s-eye-chili-infused mango liqueur, Ceylon Arrack, citrus, and egg whites.
Vintage Cocktail Club isn’t just famous for its drinks, their food menu is also worth a try. You should definitely try their antipasti platters, cheese boards, and Camembert baked with thyme, garlic, and rosemary.
Also Read: Best Hikes in Ireland
7. Dick Mack’s Pub (Kerry)
Dick Mack’s Pub is an old-school Irish pub located in the town of Dingle, County Kerry. The pub has been in operation since 1899, serving liquid refreshments.
However, the most incredible thing about Dick Mack’s Pub is that it’s a dual-function pub. On one side of the pub, you will find a beer bar, while on the other side, there is a years-old leather shop. Meanwhile, the walls are decorated with an eclectic collection of memorabilia, adding to the pub’s rustic charm.
Beyond its majestic interior, Dick Mack’s Pub is popular for its live music sessions. On any given night, you might find yourself tapping your feet into the rhythms of traditional Irish music played by talented local musicians. These lively sessions create a thrilling atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Irish culture.
Of course, no visit to Dick Mack’s Pub would be complete without their locally brewed beers and fine whiskeys. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend the perfect pint to accompany your evening.
8. The Long Hall (Dublin)
The Long Hall is another iconic and historic pub in Dublin that is still going strong after 250 years. Established in 1766, The Long Hall has one of the oldest and most beautiful interiors in the city. The traditional pub features polished dark wood, antique clocks, filigree-edged mirrors, and traditional snugs which makes it worth a visit.
The interior of The Long Hall dates back to 1881 and exudes genuine Victorian vibes. The pub is abundant in traditional charm, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is truly enchanting, transporting you back in time with its classic decor and cozy ambiance.
The main fame of The Long Hall is undoubtedly their perfectly poured pint of Guinness which has its unique great taste. The Long Hall is famous for serving one of the best pints in Dublin, that too directly from taps. The rich, creamy stout is an integral part of the Irish pub experience, and enjoying it at this historic place in Dublin is an absolute must.
9. Tigh Neachtain (Galway)
Tigh Neachtain is another heritage pub in Ireland that is located in the heart of Galway City, at the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street. It has been a meeting place for diverse and eclectic groups of people since it first opened its doors in 1894.
This all-wood pub has a strong connection with Galway’s arts and musical communities, adding to the charm of its welcoming interior. Whether you’re looking to sit by the fire on a chilly winter day or enjoy a drink in their beer garden while soaking up the vibes of Galway City, Tigh Neachtain’s doors are always open.
One of the unique things about Tigh Neachtain is its extensive Guinness and whiskey collection, which is one of the largest that you will find in the West of Ireland. From rare Irish and Scotch whiskeys to vintage craft beers, Tigh Neachtain has everything to offer.
Not only do they directly source drinks from some of the world’s greatest distilleries, but they are also expanding their collection to include Japanese, American, and Australian whiskeys.
10. Thomas Connolly Bar (Sligo)
At number 10 on our list, we have Thomas Connolly Bar, which is one of the oldest pubs in Sligo, with a century-old heritage and history. The pub was first licensed in 1861 and was then bought by Thomas Connolly who later became the Mayor of Sligo.
In its early days, the pub had a grocery shop attached that was very well-known for selling sugar, tea, and bottling whiskey. However, after some years the shop was closed but the pub retains its old-world charm. Now, Thomas Connolly Bar is only known for its legendary pint of stout.
Today, the Thomas Connolly Bar offers an exclusive collection of craft beers, whiskeys, and gins, along with freshly ground or specialty coffees. Moreover, it’s a lively place that hosts live music, screens major sporting events, and also provides free Wi-Fi to its customers.
In fact, the pub is also well-recognized. In 2023, Thomas Connolly Bar was named “All Ireland Pub of the Year” at the Irish Restaurant Awards. In addition, it was named among the 10 Ireland pubs to visit while you still can by The Telegraph.
11. JJ Houghs Singing Pub (Offaly)
JJ Houghs Singing Pub is a legendary pub in the town of Banagher, Offaly, that is known for its authentic Irish experience.
Not only this pub has an amazing rating of 4.7/5 on Google but it’s also been known for centuries for its lively atmosphere, excellent music, and great cocktails.
The 250-year old pub truly offers a genuine Irish ambiance, moreover, it has all the charm and warmth that has made Irish pubs famous worldwide.
If you’re looking to enjoy an authentic Irish experience, a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, and friendly conversation, JJ Houghs Singing Pub is the place to be.
With its traditional heritage and legacy for providing an unforgettable evening, JJ Houghs is a must-visit pub for anyone exploring the best of Irish pub culture.
12. Moran’s Of Mornington (Meath)
Moran’s of Mornington is one of the very few pubs in Ireland that is located along the river. Established in the 1800s, Moran’s of Mornington is situated right next to River Boyne in County Meath. The place has been serving pints and quenching the thirst of locals and tourists for generations.
Once you reach the place, the first thing you’ll notice is a towering oak tree standing guard over the pub’s entrance, calling you inside. Step through the swing doors, and you’ll find yourself in a no-frills pub with a fire that offers a warm and inviting ambiance.
One of the most amazing things that you will like about Morans of Mornington is its spacious beer garden at the back, which is perfect for enjoying a pint on any summer day. Even when it comes to service, you won’t have anything to complain about.
Perhaps the most captivating aspect of this pub is its interior, which exudes a sense of timelessness. The decor and atmosphere feel as if they haven’t changed in a century, transporting you back to a simpler, more authentic era.
13. Toby’s Bar (Mayo)
Last but not least, we have Toby’s Bar on our list of best pubs in Ireland. Located in Westport, Toby’s Bar is one of the oldest pubs in Mayo which was first opened in 1856. It has been owned and operated by the Gibbons family since 1907, making it a true family-run establishment.
The traditional pub is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a cozy interior that also features a fireplace. The cheerful green, red, and gold exterior further adds to its inviting charm, tempting visitors to step inside and experience the true Irish pub culture.
Not only that, Toby’s Bar is also a great place to meet friendly faces, engage in lively conversations, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture. The pub is particularly popular among anglers, who usually visit it after a day spent fishing in the nearby waters.
With its long history, family-owned tradition, and inviting ambiance, Toby’s Bar is a must-visit pub if you are in Mayo and thirsting for an authentic pint of Irish beer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a pub and a bar in Ireland?
The main difference between a pub and a bar in Ireland is the ambiance. While Irish pubs are more relaxed and calm, bars in Ireland have loud music and dance floors. Moreover, bars are more frequently visited by Irish youth, while pubs are visited by both young and old people.
How many pubs are there in Ireland?
There are around 7000 pubs across Ireland which means that wherever you go in Ireland, you will likely find a pub.
