Top Traditional Pubs

Although pubs like Sean’s Bar in Athlone have existed for at least 1000 years it was not until 1635 that the government required pubs to be licensed. Grace Neill’s Bar in Donaghadee, County Down became the first to be licensed in 1611. Unlike their British counterparts, Irish pubs are usually named after their current or previous owner or the street they are located on. Over the years, individual pubs have been associated with famous Irish writers and poets such as Patrick Kavanagh, Brendan Behan, and James Joyce. If you’re thinking of having a big day out..sadly in the 18th century, it became illegal to be married in a pub!