1. Jim O’ the Mill, Upperchurch, Tipperary
It only opens on Thursday nights – so you have to time your visit well. But once there you’re guaranteed a legendary trad session in a very unique pub setting.
2. The Blue Light, Dublin mountains
Nestled in the foothills of the Dublin mountains, the views from the beer garden across the road are worth the trip alone.
3. O’Shea’s, Borris, Carlow
Wonderfully fits the classic hardware/pub genre that could only work in the Irish countryside.
4. Jack’s bar, Cromane, Kerry
Because the beer garden looks like this:
5. O’Riada’s, Kilkenny
One of the oldest of the old school Kilkenny pubs – and you don’t get more traditional than O’Riada’s.
6. The Crown Liquor Saloon, Belfast
This pub has been around since 1885 – and the interior feels like it. Simply superb decorative walls and ceilings makes for some view with a pint.
7. J Anthony Beirne’s, Strokestown, Roscommon
8. French’s, Gorey, Wexford
Another one that’s stood the test of time – setting up in 1775 and still going strong today. Known for its old school charm and the fact that it’s hardly overrun with tourists, French’s is as traditional as it gets.
And the decorations aren’t bad either:
9. The Strand Inn, Dunmore East, Waterford
Perhaps the best pint with a view in the South East.
10. Sean’s Bar, Athlone
It’s well known as being the self-styled oldest pub in Europe, but Sean’s recently made it in to Lonely Planet’s 50 Bars To Blow Your Mind guidebook – so the Athlone institution is still a must visit after all these years.
11. The Cornerhouse, Cork
One of the best spots for a trad night Cork – or anywhere – can offer. Session on.
12. Pádraicín’s, Furbo, Galway
A seaside pint here in Connemara boasts simply stunning views over Galway Bay.
13. O’Loclainn’s, Ballyvaughan, Clare
Whiskey as far as the eye can see. Consisting of a small room, O’Loclainn’s is the quintessential Irish local pub – and everyone who goes there seems to rave about the welcome they get.
14. The Gravediggers
In winter or summer, The Gravediggers is an unashamedly old fashioned spot for a Guinness – and probably the best in Dublin.
15. Smuggler’s Creek, Rossnowlagh, Donegal
Worth the trip out from Donegal town to Rossnowlagh. If only for the view:
16. Bessie’s, Kilcummin, Mayo
On the Northern coast of County Mayo lies Kilcummin, and Bessie’s is the local with a superb view of the Atlantic and guaranteed craic.
17. Morrissey’s, Abbeyleix, Laois
Described by one visitor as “a quirky old pub where time has stood still. Good locally brewed ale and a warming atmosphere.” Which just about sums up the unique charms of Morrisseys perfectly.
