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The nightlife scene in Ireland has changed radically in the last few decades. Alongside the traditional Irish pubs, sit stylish bars and buzzing pre-club haunts. Pubs, of which Ireland has plenty, are sometimes called ‘lounges’ or ‘bars’ and there is often a worded sign outside the premises rather than the traditional painted boards found in Britain. |
Almost all pubs and bars in Ireland offer counter service. Evidently, the Irish capital, Dublin is one of the most exciting places in the world. On most nights the city's pubs and clubs overflow with young cell phone-toting Dubliners and Europeans who descend on the capital for weekend getaways. The city's 900-plus pubs are its main source of entertainment; many public houses in the city centre feature live music -- from rock and jazz to traditional Irish fare. Most pubs, especially in small towns and villages, have traditional music in the evenings, complete with bodhrans (Irish drums), fiddles and spoons, and they'll happily raise the rafters along with their glasses.
Dublin has always been a trendy hangout, but in the last decade, the city has undergone a massive nightlife revolution and now bears more than a passing resemblance to Europe's nightclub hotspot, London. Stylish and internationally renowned dance clubs have supplanted old-fashioned discos, which were once the only alternative for late-night entertainment. The streets of Dublin that used to fall silent after the pubs had closed are now the scene of what appears to be a never-ending party; you are as likely to find crowds at 2 am on a Wednesday as you are at the same time on a Saturday.
Some of Dublin's old classic pubs have been given a makeover with modern interiors and designer drinks to attract a much younger and worldly crowd. Despite the changes, however, the traditional pub has steadfastly clung to its role as the primary center of Dublin's social life. Pubs in Ireland are generally open on all days of the week.
In Galway, the nightlife is as pulsating as Dublin’s. No matter how you choose to spend your time there, do visit at least one pub. Whether you drink a pint of Guinness or just a glass of soda, pubs in Galway are more than just bars – they are the area's vital social centers, places to connect with natives and visitors, to pick up leads about local activities, and, above all, to hear excellent Irish music.
The minimum drinking age in Ireland is 18 years and the trendy Temple Bar district in Dublin showcases the best nightlife spots in the city. The most internationally distinctive beverages of Ireland are whiskey (spelt with an ‘e’) and stout. Guiness, one of the most popular drinks in the word is available everywhere; another well-loved concoction is Smithwick’s/Harp Lager, which is essentially a light ale. Irish whiskey has a uniquely characteristic flavour and is matured in a wooden barrel for a minimum of 7 years.
Featured below is a list of some of the famous pubs & bars in Ireland:
Frank Owens: This is one of the most popular pubs in North Western Ireland. Managed by Frank Owens and his sons, the pub boasts charming and highly original interiors. It has three cosy rooms with walls adorned by photographs and prints of a bygone era. |
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Frank Owens
Main Street,
Limavady,
Co. Derry,
BT49 0EU,
Northern Ireland
Telephone: +44(0) 28 7772 2328
barman@frankowens.com
Reardens Bar & Nightclub Complex: Winner of the best Music Venue in Ireland Award and the Best Overall Bar Award, this ‘watering-hole’ instils a sense of warmth and well-being in all those who cross its threshold. No description of the eatery is complete without a mention of its helpful staff, always will to lend a hand to those who are unfamiliar with traditional Irish cuisine. Reardens is a proud sponsor of GAA and shows this by creating real match atmosphere during GAA or Rugby matches. Reardens is a late bar open on all nights a week and features live music bands along with a resident DJ.
Reardens of Washington Street
26 Washington Street
Cork City
Telephone: 021 427 1969
information@reardens.com
Freakscene: This was previously called ‘The Double B’ and is Ireland's longest running alternative club night. Currently it is open in its fifth home at The Qube/Works on Wednesdays. The Qube/Works is located on Oliver Plunkett Street next to the Bróg.
For more information, mail to info@freakscene.com
The Sally’s Gardens Pub: Sally’s Gardens was refurbished extensively some time ago to create the old world look and atmosphere it retains today. It is one of the busiest hangouts in Portlaoise.
The Sally’s Gardens Pub
66 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co Laois
Telephone: +353 57 8621658
johnholmes@sallygardenspub.com
The Brazen Head: Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head was established in 1198. Its timeworn walls reek of history and there is a distinctive aura of authenticity about the place. It is situated round the corner from Christchurch and Guiness’ brewery in Dublin. The pub is renowned for its impressive food and live music performances.
The Brazen Head
20 Bridge Street
Dublin 8, Ireland
Telephone: +353 (0) 1 6779549
+353 (0) 1 6795186
Cronin’s Irish Pub: This pub is housed in a uniquely designed building and was originally a town hotel. It was built in 1892 and opened by William Kennefick. The specialities of the house include traditional home-baked foods, local delicacies like Thecla’s seafood chowder or French Onion soup with home-made brown bread or chicken liver pate, served with sweet Cumberland sauce. Fresh oysters and mussels are served daily.
Cronin’s Irish Pub
Crosshaven
County Cork, Ireland
Telephone: +353 21 4831829
By: Mini Sreenarayanan
GOWEALTHY.COM © 2006
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