“Good puzzle would be cross Dublin without passing a pub” – a quote from Ulysses that many have tried and failed to complete. We say, why would you want to? Dublin is one of the most exciting, standard-setting European cities for pubs, and it’s only right that everyone experiences our brilliant pub culture at least once. From nursing a quiet pint with your paper to enjoying trad music from aged mahogany bar counters, every pub has a distinct character and something new to offer, We’ve put together some of the great pubs in Dublin (merely the tip of the iceberg) that we feel deserve a visit during your trip to Dublin.
To experience Dublin pub culture for yourself, book a stay in the 4-stay Ashling Hotel in Dublin from where you can explore the city on foot, like a local.
Brazen Head
Did you know that Dublin’s oldest pub is a short walk from our Dublin Hotel? Brazen Head is a great pub for history having stood in its current position since 1198 when it served as a coaching inn. The pub in its current form was built in 1754 and has gone from strength to strength since. Dublin pubs each claim a little of our culture for themselves, but few can claim Gulliver’s Travels author Jonathan Swift and legendary revolutionary Wolfe Tone as regulars. It’s a busy pub which has been a staple for visitors to the big smoke for many centuries in some form or another. It boasts a great beer garden and live music 7-nights a week from 9pm.
The Temple Bar
Undisputedly the most tourist-heavy and photographed of all of Dublin’s most famous pubs, there is no denying that a trip to The Temple Bar belongs on every pub-lovers bucket list. Its bright red façade, colourful floral display and cobblestoned exterior make it the perfect place for a photo opportunity. It is arguably the most expensive place to stop for a pint in Dublin, but you’ll be rewarded with some of the best musical talent in the country with famous faces often dropping in unannounced for a sing-song. If Guinness isn’t your drink of choice, you can choose from over 450 types of rare whiskey, making it the largest whiskey collection in Ireland. You can also visit the whiskey shop and take a little liquid luck home with you.
Gravediggers
John Kavanagh’s aka ‘The Gravediggers’, isn’t a short walk from Ashling Hotel but it’s a worthwhile one. Located in Glasnevin beside the National Botanic Gardens, this time-worn pub shares a wall with Glasnevin Graveyard. The story goes the gravediggers, working the night shift, would knock on the wall three times with a brick, signaling to the barkeep that they wanted a pint passed through the railings. It’s widely known for having one of (if not THE) best pint of Guinness in Dublin and its menu of traditional Dublin favourites is second to none. The pubs basic, traditional interior, weathered wooden bar and lack of music, Wi-Fi & TV mean you can enjoy a peaceful pint by yourself or settle in for a catch-up with friends.
The Long Hall
A favourite of many Dublin locals and after-work drinkers, the Long Hall is one of the most treasured pubs in the city centre. Its 250-year-old façade and lavishly decorated interior makes you feel like you’re walking back in time and it’s a great place to watch some Irish sports or catch up with friends. Virtually unchanged since 1881, the interior is accented with a red ceiling, elaborate wooden partitions, antique clocks, globe lamps and red leather bar stools. They serve a great pint of Guinness and have recently branched out into local craft beers to accommodate all tastes. Their staff are only too happy to recommend a favourite drink or stop for a chat when they’re not busy. We’ve heard famous faces like Ed Sheeran and Bruce Springsteen are partial to a pint here too!
One blog isn’t nearly enough to pay homage to the best pubs in Dublin, but we’ve covered a few bases. Book a stay in the 4-star Ashling Hotel and explore Dublin’s pub culture for yourself. Our friendly staff are happy to recommend a personal favourite. Browse our best available rates on our website.
