Looking for a drink or a bite to eat before a big game or event in Dublin’s Aviva Stadium? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
Here at the Irish Pub Guide we’ve put together the best selection of pubs near the Lansdowne Road arena so you can have a few pre-match pints whether you’re heading to see a big rugby match in the Six Nations or the Irish soccer team are welcoming the likes of France, England or even Georgia.
If you’re not used to the area, Ballsbridge and the surrounding spots are particularly pleasant places to find yourself, with no shortage of excellent pubs and lovely food.
We’ve compiled this list with match and concert goers in mind, so if you’ve gone to either in the Aviva before and found a pub that absolutely has to be on this list, please let us know in the comments below.
The Bath Pub, Bath Avenue
One of the closest pubs to the stadium itself, sitting in the middle of Beggars Bush, this bar is loved by locals and has roaring trade outside of the regular event days, which is always a good sign.
It’s a very well decorated pub inside with a relaxed vibe and plenty space to find yourself a seat, although the closer it is to kick-off ahead of a big match, this becomes less so the case.
A courtyard area makes this ideal on a sunny afternoon or evening if you want to have a few drinks outdoors and soak up the atmosphere before heading to the match. A really great pub, worth a visit.
Searsons, Baggot Street
An ideal option in Dublin 4 on your way to a game, known for its spacious layout, lively atmosphere, and close proximity to the stadium, it’s a popular pre- and post-match spot for fans.
The bar has a wide selection of drinks, including craft beers, and serves quality pub food, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to gather with friends before the game.
Large screens ensure you can catch any pre-match coverage or highlights, adding further to that buzz and match-day experience.
Slattery’s Pub, Beggar’s Bush
A great pub in the shadow of the Aviva Stadium with a reputation as a top sports bar with great pints, mouthwatering food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Another hugely popular choice on a matchday given its great reputation and proximity to the stadium, if you’re a few hours early, this is a top option for a bite to eat and a few drinks before heading on your way to the Aviva.
Line Out Bar, Sandymount Hotel
If you’re hoping to get somewhere right beside the stadium, the aptly named Line Out Bar in the Sandymount Hotel may well be your best bet.
Very modern in its appearance, the bar will usually be quite busy as a match or concern approaches with plenty of space inside to grab a drink and a convenient meeting point if you’re gathering with friends at the stadium.
It also boasts a nice garden terrace, which is always popular on a sunny day.
The Bridge 1859, Ballsbridge Terrace
Is there any better spot to go before a Six Nations game than one where you might well spot a legend of the Irish team? Well given a few of them own The Bridge, there’s nowhere else with a higher chance of it happening.
Rob Kearney, Dave Kearney, Jamie Heaslip and Sean O’Brien are behind this award-winning establishment which offers quality food, plenty of seating, a plethora of tv screens and a guaranteed big match atmosphere.
While a good option for any event in the Aviva Stadium, it does really come alive when the Irish rugby team are in action.
Paddy Cullen’s Pub, Merrion Road
If you’re looking for a classic style pub with plenty of room and a manageable walk from the stadium, you can’t really go wrong here.
Paddy Cullen’s on the Merrion Road has three main bars along with Mary Mac’s next door and a beer garden so you can fit a sizeable amount of people in here and really get into the match mood with the atmosphere it generates.
They’ve plenty screens so you won’t miss anything before a game and a fine selection of drinks.
Schoolhouse Gastrobar, Northumberland Road
Maybe not the obvious choice among this list but a very popular option nonetheless. The Schoolhouse hotel, which is no distance to the stadium, has a great gastrobar with a beer garden and big screens.
Large windows on the pub mean that you get plenty of sunlight inside at the bar which can be a big plus, with few other spots giving you that kind of feeling.
Plenty of patrons will head in here after a big match to have a few pints in the comfortable setting.
The Irish Pub Guide 
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