Famous pubs in Dublin that aren’t in Temple Bar
Planning a weekend in Dublin but not sure where to go for a drink? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Particularly if you have already been to Temple Bar and want to see more of what Dublin nightlife has to offer. We have chosen some of the most famous pubs in Dublin for one reason or another for you to check out:
Please note that all of the below excluding Toners have temporarily closed due to government restrictions.
What are the best pubs in Dublin city centre?
If you want to explore the city centre there are lots of options that are pretty close together, so it is easy to see a few of them in one night:
The Stags Head
This Dublin pub is just across the street from Temple Bar, tucked away in Dame Lane. Famous as a traditional pub with no TV or music where the art of conversation is appreciated and conserved. Although it can get busy at night, pop in during the day or early evening and you will meet friendly bar staff and regulars happy to chat.
Mulligans, Poolbeg Street
Mulligans, not far from O’Connell bridge, is famous for serving one of the best pints of Guinness in the capital. If the black stuff is your thing, this bar is most definitely worth a visit. Close to a long-gone theatre and newspaper offices, the rich and famous once mixed with Dublin dockers in this quirky pub. Icons like Judy Garland, Seamus Heaney, James Joyce and John F. Kennedy have enjoyed a tipple in this bar.
Long Hall
The Long Hall is famous for its Victorian bar and decor that has remained very much unchanged since 1881. The pub has held a licence in that location for over 250 years, so this is one to visit if you want to enjoy a drink in beautiful surroundings. If you are a Phil Lynott fan, you may also recognise it from the video for ‘old town’. Oh, it’s also a favourite haunt of Bruce Springsteen when he’s in town.
Toners, Baggot Street
Famous for its beer garden Toners is only a short walk from Grafton Street. Originally a bar and grocers, you can still see the stock drawers behind the bar that date from 1818. This pub is also famous for hosting many of Ireland’s literary greats including Patrick Kavanagh and W.B. Yates. Although the bar can be a tight squeeze on a busy Saturday night, Toners Yard is usually very comfortable.
Brazen Head
A taxi ride out of the city itself, the Brazen Head is famous for being the oldest pub in Ireland. There has been a public house on the site since 1198. The current building dates to the mid-eighteenth century, before the US declared independence. It is full of literary history too. Author of Gulliver’s Travels, Johnathan Swift referenced the establishment in his letters. It is also mentioned in James Joyce’s Ulysses.
Best pubs for traditional Irish music in Dublin
Looking for a session in the big smoke? You won’t have to go far from the city centre to find one. Here are some of the best places for live Irish music:
O’Donoghues
Once virtually home to many members of the world-famous Dubliners, O’Donoghues still holds informal sessions on a regular basis. The walls of this popular establishment are adorned with just some of the world-famous musicians who have played there. If the weather is good, there’s also lots of outdoor space to enjoy.
The Cobblestone
Only a walk or short Luas ride from the popular Henry Street shopping area, the Cobblestone is a great spot for a midweek music session. There is live Irish music here on Monday and Tuesday evenings and Saturday afternoons if you are in the area. Smithfield is a wonderful area to grab a bite to eat.
Enjoy the ultimate weekend in Dublin with on overnight stay in the four-star Clayton Hotel Leopardstown.
Things to do in Dublin
Looking for more to do around Dublin? Look no further. Use our helpful online guide to find tips and recommendations for what to see, do and eat around the city and discover what events are happening while you’re in town.
