1. Callanan’s, George’s Quay
Cheapest and best Beamish in Cork. Family run pub with friendly bar staff welcoming regulars who’ve been drinking there for decades and hip young twenty-somethings alike. Thursday is ‘Rings Night’ when you can expect to get hooked on throwing hoops and have a bit of a sing song. The decor hasn’t changed in years.
2. Dennehy’s, Corn Market Street
Another family run pub where time has stood still yet the craic is mighty. Pub owner Con Dennehy, a former campaigner against the drink driving and smoking bans, has even been known to give locals a lift home late at night if they can’t get a taxi.
3. Charlie’s Bar, Union Quay
Famous Cork early house known for its ‘character and characters’. Hosting live music most nights, from rock n roll to trad and regular blues sessions, Charlie’s is known for its consistently good and often drink hardened atmosphere.
4. Fionbarra’s, Douglas Street
Good, cheap pub food venue with cosy interior and a fantastic beer garden out the back. Great spot for a table quiz and a fine selection of beers, whiskeys and gins to sample.
5. The Cornerhouse, Coburg Street
Situated just down the street from the better known Sin e, The Cornerhouse is a great live music pub with trad and blues sessions happening nightly. The Murphy’s Folk Club still meets here regularly and the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming. Has the potential t become a tourist favourite.
6. The Idle Hour, Albert Quay
Formerly the haunt of Cork docklands workers, the Idle Hour has evolved into the place to go for an adventure into the unknown. Expect to find yourself dancing on the bar on a Friday night or rolling in the door at 7am in search of an early pint.
7. The Hi-B, Oliver Plunkett Street
Famous old first-floor bar known for its strictly enforced ban on mobile phones and quirky signs saying: ‘No Dick tonight,” referring to whether or not it resident pianist is in attendance. If you’re looking for an unusual yet authentic pub night out, Hi-B it.
8. Tom Barry’s, Barrack Street
Utterly charming both inside and out, Tom Barry’s is the ideal spot for a winter warmer or a summer night out. Home to possibly the best and oldest beer garden in the city, replete with seasonal floral displays, this pub is extremely popular with those in the know.
9. The Oval, South Main Street
Despite its listing on the Cork Heritage Pubs Trail, The Oval remains relatively untouched by the tourism invasion. Full of old world style and character, this pub was architecturally designed on behalf of the old Beamish and Crawford brewery, located right across the street. Its stunning interior remains intact and it’s always a safe bet for a good pint and a chat.
10. The Mutton Lane, off St Patrick’s Street
Owned by the same pub entrepreneur as Sin E and The Oval (and several more), The Mutton Lane is about as Cork as you can get. Located in an alleyway linking Patrick’s Street to the English Market, its colourful lane-length mural tells the story of many city characters. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting and the music is always superb.