Pub Crawl (Self Guided), Dublin
The Irish in general and Dubliners in particular are known for their passion for whiskey and beer. As you embark upon a beguiling odyssey through the spirited streets of the Irish capital, you can't help noticing the reverberating vibrancy coming from its enchanting pubs. A tapestry of libation-laden lore awaits those who traverse the path of the Dublin pub crawl, guided by the siren call of revelry and the allure of historical landmarks.
Our first stop, Fitzgerald's, greets you with the warm embrace of refined conviviality. Here, the wood-paneled walls whisper tales of literary giants and artistic musings, immersing you in an ambiance that smoothly fuses tradition and contemporary fun.
Next thing, you venture to the atmospheric Oliver St John Gogarty Pub. Named after the renowned early 20th-century poet and surgeon, this joint pays homage to his contributions to Irish literature. Here, the echoes of Irish poetry and song intertwine with the clinking of glasses.
Further footsteps lead you to The Stag's Head, a Dublin institution since the 1890s. Within its regal Victorian interior, resplendent chandeliers cast a golden glow upon the finely carved mahogany, inviting you to savor the exquisite craftsmanship while sipping upon the nectar of the gods.
The Temple Bar Pub is yet another iconic landmark en route. Its iconic façade beckons, heralding an immersive experience that embodies the essence of Dublin's bohemian spirit.
The Porterhouse trailblazing pub holds the distinction of being Dublin's first modern microbrewery. It dares visitors to sample the breadth and depth of Ireland's brewing heritage, each sip an adventure unto itself.
The Bull & Castle gastropub delivers on all fronts and is known for its emphasis on exceptional food and drink pairings.
Eventually, as you navigate the labyrinthine streets, you will find yourself drawn to O'Shea's Merchant – a perfect place to unwind, strike up a conversation with locals, and experience the genuine warmth of Irish hospitality.
On this self-guided tour, you get a chance to pub-crawl in style, delving into Dublin’s exciting pub culture, whilst enjoying the refreshing pints of skillfully crafted ales and other specialties. As you bid adieu to the intoxicating reverie of local pubs, prepare to carry home some lasting memories and tales that transcend time, forever intertwined with the spirit of this captivating city.
Our first stop, Fitzgerald's, greets you with the warm embrace of refined conviviality. Here, the wood-paneled walls whisper tales of literary giants and artistic musings, immersing you in an ambiance that smoothly fuses tradition and contemporary fun.
Next thing, you venture to the atmospheric Oliver St John Gogarty Pub. Named after the renowned early 20th-century poet and surgeon, this joint pays homage to his contributions to Irish literature. Here, the echoes of Irish poetry and song intertwine with the clinking of glasses.
Further footsteps lead you to The Stag's Head, a Dublin institution since the 1890s. Within its regal Victorian interior, resplendent chandeliers cast a golden glow upon the finely carved mahogany, inviting you to savor the exquisite craftsmanship while sipping upon the nectar of the gods.
The Temple Bar Pub is yet another iconic landmark en route. Its iconic façade beckons, heralding an immersive experience that embodies the essence of Dublin's bohemian spirit.
The Porterhouse trailblazing pub holds the distinction of being Dublin's first modern microbrewery. It dares visitors to sample the breadth and depth of Ireland's brewing heritage, each sip an adventure unto itself.
The Bull & Castle gastropub delivers on all fronts and is known for its emphasis on exceptional food and drink pairings.
Eventually, as you navigate the labyrinthine streets, you will find yourself drawn to O'Shea's Merchant – a perfect place to unwind, strike up a conversation with locals, and experience the genuine warmth of Irish hospitality.
On this self-guided tour, you get a chance to pub-crawl in style, delving into Dublin’s exciting pub culture, whilst enjoying the refreshing pints of skillfully crafted ales and other specialties. As you bid adieu to the intoxicating reverie of local pubs, prepare to carry home some lasting memories and tales that transcend time, forever intertwined with the spirit of this captivating city.
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Pub Crawl Map
Guide Name: Pub Crawl
Guide Location: Ireland » Dublin (See other walking tours in Dublin)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Author: max
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Ireland » Dublin (See other walking tours in Dublin)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Author: max
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Fitzgerald's Bar
- Oliver St. John Gogartys
- The Stag's Head
- The Temple Bar Pub
- Porterhouse Temple Bar
- The Bull & Castle
- Ned O'Shea's
- The Brazen Head
- Frank Ryan's Bar
1) Fitzgerald's Bar
Indulge in classic pub fare like shepherd's pie, fried cod, and Irish corned beef at Fitzgerald's, where the two televisions switch between sports and soaps. Ideally located on Aston Quay in Dublin's bustling Temple Bar district, this timeless pub exudes a vintage charm with snug corners surrounding a Victorian-style bar, wooden floors, lofty ceilings, iron chandeliers, expansive mirrors, and cozy seating perfect for leisurely observation. A discreet snug at the rear offers a hint of seclusion if desired.
With a diverse array of ales, stouts, and lagers, along with the stellar 'pub grub' menu featuring their renowned 'all day breakfast', Fitzgerald's caters to all tastes. Whether you seek a tranquil atmosphere for intimate conversations over pints, the excitement of watching top sporting events on large screens, or grooving to live performances, this establishment delivers. Expect amiable and attentive service from the welcoming staff.
With a diverse array of ales, stouts, and lagers, along with the stellar 'pub grub' menu featuring their renowned 'all day breakfast', Fitzgerald's caters to all tastes. Whether you seek a tranquil atmosphere for intimate conversations over pints, the excitement of watching top sporting events on large screens, or grooving to live performances, this establishment delivers. Expect amiable and attentive service from the welcoming staff.
2) Oliver St. John Gogartys
Designed in the charming late 19th-century Irish style, complete with flagstone floors and a healthy dollop of authentic artifacts scattered throughout, this pub is a must-visit on any Dublin itinerary. Named after the Irish poet, playwright, and surgeon who served as a model for a character in Joyce's "Ulysses", it sits in the heart of the Cultural Quarter, Temple Bar, offering a touristy yet authentic experience.
Once a favored haunt of literary luminaries like James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, and Brendan Behan, the pub pays homage to its storied past with due reverence. A cultural powerhouse by association, it also doubles as an excellent dining and entertainment venue. Traditional Irish music sets the tone upstairs in the afternoons, while contemporary hits play on the ground level. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it's one of the few spots where you can grab a bite late into the night, all while soaking in the lively ambiance.
Once a favored haunt of literary luminaries like James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, and Brendan Behan, the pub pays homage to its storied past with due reverence. A cultural powerhouse by association, it also doubles as an excellent dining and entertainment venue. Traditional Irish music sets the tone upstairs in the afternoons, while contemporary hits play on the ground level. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it's one of the few spots where you can grab a bite late into the night, all while soaking in the lively ambiance.
3) The Stag's Head
Just a stone's throw from the buzz of Grafton Street, The Stag's Head is a quintessential Dublin drinking spot, renowned for its hospitality, food, and pints of Guinness. Crossing into this landmark feels like entering a living history book, steeped in tales of the past. Its picturesque allure has graced the silver screen and was even featured on a postage-stamps series on Irish bars.
Conceived by George Tyson, a merchant from Westmoreland who settled in Ireland in the 1870s, The Stag's Head was purchased in the early 1890s with a vision to establish the most advanced and distinctive Victorian pub in Dublin – the capital's first to be illuminated by electric light. Amid great anticipation, the establishment opened its doors to the public in May 1894, attracting esteemed patrons such as the Lord Lieutenant and prominent members of Victorian society.
Tyson's legacy endures, as evidenced by his name on the large clock outside the building. Inside, you will find a long bar with a majestic stag's head, alongside opulent marble and mahogany accents, a magnificent ceiling, stained glass windows, and mirrors; no television. Another charming relic of the Victorian era is the cozy parlour lounge discreetly tucked behind the main bar, which once served as a fashionable smoking retreat. Upstairs, the bar hosts a variety of engaging events, from live music gigs to comedy and storytelling events.
Conceived by George Tyson, a merchant from Westmoreland who settled in Ireland in the 1870s, The Stag's Head was purchased in the early 1890s with a vision to establish the most advanced and distinctive Victorian pub in Dublin – the capital's first to be illuminated by electric light. Amid great anticipation, the establishment opened its doors to the public in May 1894, attracting esteemed patrons such as the Lord Lieutenant and prominent members of Victorian society.
Tyson's legacy endures, as evidenced by his name on the large clock outside the building. Inside, you will find a long bar with a majestic stag's head, alongside opulent marble and mahogany accents, a magnificent ceiling, stained glass windows, and mirrors; no television. Another charming relic of the Victorian era is the cozy parlour lounge discreetly tucked behind the main bar, which once served as a fashionable smoking retreat. Upstairs, the bar hosts a variety of engaging events, from live music gigs to comedy and storytelling events.
4) The Temple Bar Pub
The Temple Bar boasts one of the most photographed pub facades in Dublin, if not the world. Situated right in the heart of the tourist hub, it's typically chock-a-block with visitors from overseas and out-of-town. Despite the crowds, it offers a lively and enjoyable atmosphere, complete with traditional musicians and a vibrant beer garden.
The history of this area dates back to 1599 when Sir William Temple, a respected scholar and philosopher, began his service to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. By 1609, he had relocated to Dublin after being appointed Provost of Trinity College and Master Chancery, constructing a residence and gardens on reclaimed land at the corner of today's Temple Lane and Temple Bar street. The development of the Temple Bar district, as we recognize it today, was facilitated by the construction of a new sea wall for further land reclamation, in 1656.
In the 17th century, the term "Barr" or "barrier" often referred to a raised estuary sandbank, commonly used as a walkway. Over time, the adjacent River Liffey embankment transformed into the thoroughfare connecting this entire area, extending from Westmoreland Street to Fishamble Street. Once described by The New York Times as a "dilapidated medieval neighborhood", the Temple Bar underwent a comprehensive government-led revitalization effort in the 1990s, featuring designs from several local architectural firms.
The history of this area dates back to 1599 when Sir William Temple, a respected scholar and philosopher, began his service to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. By 1609, he had relocated to Dublin after being appointed Provost of Trinity College and Master Chancery, constructing a residence and gardens on reclaimed land at the corner of today's Temple Lane and Temple Bar street. The development of the Temple Bar district, as we recognize it today, was facilitated by the construction of a new sea wall for further land reclamation, in 1656.
In the 17th century, the term "Barr" or "barrier" often referred to a raised estuary sandbank, commonly used as a walkway. Over time, the adjacent River Liffey embankment transformed into the thoroughfare connecting this entire area, extending from Westmoreland Street to Fishamble Street. Once described by The New York Times as a "dilapidated medieval neighborhood", the Temple Bar underwent a comprehensive government-led revitalization effort in the 1990s, featuring designs from several local architectural firms.
5) Porterhouse Temple Bar
The Porterhouse in Temple Bar is the flagship establishment of the Porterhouse chain of pubs. Opening its doors in 1996, it marked Dublin's first pub brewery driven by a steadfast commitment to offering a diverse array of quality beers. This craft beer haven, endowed with Irish essence to the very bone, prides itself on making the best lager in Ireland, if not the whole world, called Weiserbuddy, along with a line of other in-house beers from their own brewery, served daily along with delicious food and wonderful live music.
The owners of Porterhouse helped create the Founding Charter of the Brewers and Masters Guild of Ireland, underscoring their significance within Dublin's beer scene. Overall, this establishment is as important to Dublin as beer is important to the Irish people. There's plenty of seating available, so just pop in and check it out for yourself!
Tip:
A notable highlight, best experienced during daylight hours, is the view from the third-floor bay windows. On clear, sunny days, the panorama encompasses landmarks such as City Hall, Oxfam, Sunlight Chambers, and the crossroads of Parliament and Essex streets.
The owners of Porterhouse helped create the Founding Charter of the Brewers and Masters Guild of Ireland, underscoring their significance within Dublin's beer scene. Overall, this establishment is as important to Dublin as beer is important to the Irish people. There's plenty of seating available, so just pop in and check it out for yourself!
Tip:
A notable highlight, best experienced during daylight hours, is the view from the third-floor bay windows. On clear, sunny days, the panorama encompasses landmarks such as City Hall, Oxfam, Sunlight Chambers, and the crossroads of Parliament and Essex streets.
6) The Bull & Castle
Far from being just another Irish pub, The Bull & Castle is a pub-style steakhouse with a focus on craft beers. Operated by six generations of the Buckley family – renowned originally as butchers and suppliers of the highest quality meats, and later as proprietors of some of the nation's favourite steakhouses, gastro-pubs, and bars – since 1930, this venue ranks among Ireland's top gastronomic destinations.
Whether seeking fine dining or a hearty burger paired with a craft beer, you'll find it all here. While steak connoisseurs will delight in Angus and Hereford beef, those with varied preferences may find ample choices on the extensive European and Irish menu, which includes a variety of alternatives and seasonal selections crafted from the freshest Irish produce.
The uniquely designed beer hall features an impressive array of Irish beers sourced from local breweries, alongside an extensive selection of bottled beer, whiskeys, premium spirits, and wines from around the world, plus a wide choice of cocktails.
With reasonable drink prices and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying time with friends, this venue should be on your itinerary. Guests are encouraged to seek the expert advice of the staff, who are dedicated to ensuring a memorable dining experience for every visitor.
Whether seeking fine dining or a hearty burger paired with a craft beer, you'll find it all here. While steak connoisseurs will delight in Angus and Hereford beef, those with varied preferences may find ample choices on the extensive European and Irish menu, which includes a variety of alternatives and seasonal selections crafted from the freshest Irish produce.
The uniquely designed beer hall features an impressive array of Irish beers sourced from local breweries, alongside an extensive selection of bottled beer, whiskeys, premium spirits, and wines from around the world, plus a wide choice of cocktails.
With reasonable drink prices and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying time with friends, this venue should be on your itinerary. Guests are encouraged to seek the expert advice of the staff, who are dedicated to ensuring a memorable dining experience for every visitor.
7) Ned O'Shea's
Facing the more famous Brazen Head, the recently renovated Ned O'Shea's radiates the cozy atmosphere of a countryside tavern in the heart of the city. Having undergone a transformation into a food hall with a huge menu, the scent of freshly frozen seafood and sizzling garlic fills the air. Despite the changes, remnants of the past linger, with a handful of stools scattered around the stately old island bar.
Also known as the Kerryman's pub, this watering hole traces its roots back to 1985 when it was founded by the legendary Ned O'Shea, fondly referred to as 'The Merchant' from Kerry. Upon Ned's retirement in 2010, John and Maura O'Shea took the reins, upholding the family tradition of lively music, authentic Kerry cuisine, and the warmest of Irish hospitality for all who step through the doors.
Their beer garden brings up a touch of history with original seating salvaged from Croke Park before its redevelopment. Tourists hold a special fondness for this spot, and to entice even more visitors, the owners occasionally inflate an oversized pint of stout that hovers over the beer garden—an Instagram-worthy spectacle for those seeking gratification. Truly, a claim to fame: the 'Biggest pint in Dublin!'
Also known as the Kerryman's pub, this watering hole traces its roots back to 1985 when it was founded by the legendary Ned O'Shea, fondly referred to as 'The Merchant' from Kerry. Upon Ned's retirement in 2010, John and Maura O'Shea took the reins, upholding the family tradition of lively music, authentic Kerry cuisine, and the warmest of Irish hospitality for all who step through the doors.
Their beer garden brings up a touch of history with original seating salvaged from Croke Park before its redevelopment. Tourists hold a special fondness for this spot, and to entice even more visitors, the owners occasionally inflate an oversized pint of stout that hovers over the beer garden—an Instagram-worthy spectacle for those seeking gratification. Truly, a claim to fame: the 'Biggest pint in Dublin!'
8) The Brazen Head
Purported to be Ireland's most ancient pub, tracing its origins back to 1198, this establishment certainly exudes an abundance of charm. Within its walls, adorned with an array of music-related artifacts, patrons are greeted by crackling log fires, while candlelight illuminates a labyrinth of cozy alcoves. Upon entering, guests are met with a spacious courtyard, complete with a smoking area and beer garden, where traditional musicians entertain nightly, albeit with varying degrees of skill.
Legend has it that Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen once convened here to plot their rebellion. Referenced in "Ulysses" as a potential resting place for Long John Corley, the downtrodden character, Brazen Head also finds a place in J.P. Donleavy's renowned novel "The Ginger Man", where it is portrayed as a challenging yet rewarding spot for late-night libations, provided one can charm their way past the landlady. Ah, those cherished days of yore, forever lost to time...
Legend has it that Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen once convened here to plot their rebellion. Referenced in "Ulysses" as a potential resting place for Long John Corley, the downtrodden character, Brazen Head also finds a place in J.P. Donleavy's renowned novel "The Ginger Man", where it is portrayed as a challenging yet rewarding spot for late-night libations, provided one can charm their way past the landlady. Ah, those cherished days of yore, forever lost to time...
9) Frank Ryan's Bar
Definitely a place for respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, this convivial, vintage pub embodies coziness at its finest. Established nearly two centuries ago, it has undergone refurbishments over time while retaining its distinctly Irish essence. Wood-paneled walls, a low ceiling, an inviting fireplace, all complemented by a tasteful collection of old artifacts and artwork add to this bar’s unique charm. Throughout the year, lively Irish music fills the air, accompanied by friendly staff serving up excellent pints of stout. Additionally, patrons can enjoy delicious pizza—distinct from the typical Neapolitan style, yet with a satisfying crunch, delectable flavors, and quality toppings.
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