The Irish Pub Guide

Having a pint in Ireland’s oldest pub is the aim for many when they touch down on the Emerald Isle, but which pub is that exactly?

There are dozens of pubs around the country that date back hundreds of years, and you’ll never struggle to find a traditional old pub no matter what part of the country you’re in.

The Brazen Head for example, a hugely popular spot in Dublin city, stakes its claim to be the oldest in Dublin with signs on the door for the perfect picture at one of the oldest pubs in the country.

It is perfect if you’re only visiting the capital city, but for the oldest pub in the whole country, you’ll have to head outside of the big smoke.

Ireland’s oldest pub – Sean’s Bar

Situated halfway between Dublin and Galway, Sean’s Bar in Athlone, Co Westmeath has been serving up pints to customers for over 1,000 years – said to be opened back in 900AD.

It is a traditional watering hold that has been recognised by the Guinness book of records as the oldest pub on the Emerald Isle.

And it could soon be given the same accolade for the entire world, with research ongoing and no older pubs found just yet.

In a post on their own website they say: “During renovations in 1970, the walls of the bar were found to be made of “wattle and wicker” dating back to the ninth century.

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“Old coins which were minted by various landlords for barter with their customers were also found. The walls and the coins are on display in the National Museum. One section remains on display in the pub.”

Nowadays the pub is a bit more advanced than what it would have been in 900 AD of course, but it perfectly blends new renovations with preserving old structures that make it a massive tourist attraction.

Sean’s attracts people from far and wide and with music 7 nights a week, it’s a great place to visit for some traditional Irish craic.

When there you’ll also find a huge outdoor area and a quality whiskey selection, so put it on that bucket list.