The Best Most Charming Pubs in Dublin and Wicklow

Here is a list of the best, most charming pubs in Dublin and Wicklow. Having lived in Wicklow, South of Ireland most of my life, I spent a lot of time around Dublin, Wicklow and the surrounds. Being Irish, I spent a lot of that time at the pub! Well, we are known for our pub culture and it is part of our heritage. Ireland is well known for its pubs and nightlife so here is where to find the best craic!

1. The Blue Light, Barnacullia, South Dublin.

If it is typical Irish banter and a friendly reception with traditional Irish music played live most nights, this is the top spot! Its rustic decor, stone walls and cosy atmosphere are charming. Friendly staff and locals will show you the true Irish spirit. Don’t miss your chance to experience the laid back mountain-side pub with its stunning panoramic views of Dublin City and beyond. On a clear day you see as far as Irelands Eye. Chill out on a sunny day overlooking the beautiful view or sit by the fire on a winters eve. Whenever you go, it is sure to be a relaxing retreat and definitely an experience you will never forget!

2. The Harbour Bar, Bray, Co. Wicklow.

This quintessential Irish pub was voted Best Pub in the World by Lonely Planet! It is easy to see why. The decor is uniquely charming and there is even a retro inspired living room with a couch and chairs in front of the fire! What a perfect spot to enjoy the Irish vibe and hear some traditional Irish music. There are lots of little rooms to explore and each is designed in a vintage style for a cool vibe. You simply have to go and see it for yourself. Here we are chilling by the fire. Right at home! Best part is, it is table service! Gotta love the whole idea.

3. The Lake View Lounge, Ballyknockan, Co. Wicklow. Oh my, what a little gem this pub is. Right on the edge of Blessington Lake, the deck is literally built on the lake. The scenery is stunning and this is the spot to be if you’re looking for a lakeside view. Sip a beer while enjoying a Sunday roast. Definitely one worth visiting. The drive there is beautiful too and well worth it. This is one you will always remember.

4. Jonnie Foxes Pub, Glencullen, Dublin Mountains. If it is a traditional style Irish pub you want, then look no further than Foxes. It has a traditional Irish feel to it and the charming old world decor is delightful. Like taking a step back in time, you will feel the cosy Irish welcome here. It has so many nooks and crannies to explore with its quaint style and rustic vibe. Check out some traditional Irish dancers and listen to traditional Irish music while enjoying a drink and some tasty Irish speciality food. A wonderful day out that shouldn’t be missed!

5. Glenmalure Lodge. This is one of my favourite pubs for sure. A typical Irish bar with great pints and a friendly atmosphere. There is always a buzz and it is so relaxing. Wooden bench seats and a cosy rustic charm make this the perfect stop for a beer. The picturesque setting is along a scenic drive through the Wicklow hills. With an open fire and home cooked food, this is on the Wicklow Way famous walkway trail. There is a guest house too which is great since you may not want to leave!

6. The Brazen Head. Irelands oldest pub dating back to 1198! It certainly doesn’t disappoint and they have done a great job of keeping the character of the place. Legends such as Michael Collins and James Joyce have drank here so take a step back in time and enjoy great food and live music here. Only a short walk from Christchurch cathedral. Have a Guinness while you’re at it. Sure it’d be rude not to!

7. The Long Hall. The Long Hall gets its name from the shape of the ‘long hall’ like interior of the place. Built in 1766, the interior dates from the Victorian ages since 1881 with intricate wood carving, bevelled glass and gold leaf detailing. Another historic Irish pub where legendary Irish poets, playwrights and even famous singers such as Phil Lynott once frequented. In fact, Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy recorded his video for “Old Town” in 1982 right in this very spot! This is one of those pubs you will never forget due to the atmosphere, surroundings and great Irish vibe.

8. The Whitworth – formerly known as The Porter House North, Glasnevin. I took a trip out to see this pub after a recommendation from a friend. It was well worth visiting and the decor is so cool. Every last detail has been thought of and it was a really marvellous design. If you are looking for a great day or night out then head over and see it for yourself. The floor has glass tiles that light up in some places and the bevelled glass in the bathroom was truly Art Deco. You can choose from a huge range of unique craft beers and the food was great. We had a fun time there and I would really recommend a visit if you get a chance.

9. Lanigans, Eden Quay. The decor of the place is so interesting and inviting. It is a fabulous place to sit and contemplate life. I used to go there when waiting for the bus as it is next to the main bus terminal. Hence, the large yellow bus sign hanging from the roof. A clever mish-mash of all styles brought together perfectly. A dimly lit and cosy atmosphere make it a lovely place to spend an afternoon or evening.

10. Café en Seine, is one of the nicest bars I have ever set foot in. It has a distinctly French design throughout with elaborate and elegant furnishings. The flooring and lighting are grand and luxurious and there are potted palms and greenery growing all around which give it a jungle-like feel. It is a bit like stepping into another realm when you enter. It feels quite posh but so relaxed and it is always buzzing in there. Cannot wait to see it when it re-opens as it is closed for renovations now. Excited!!!

11. Anseo. This trendy little Dublin City pub is so Irish that they even speak Irish at the bar. In fact, if you speak Irish it is encouraged as much as possible. I love the cool quirkiness of the place and I also love speaking my native tongue. If you’re keen to learn a bit of ‘Gaeilge’ while supping a decent pint, then you will fit right in! A classic style Irish relaxing hub where they have live music and comedy nights. Great craic altogether.

12. The Bernard Shaw. Such a cool looking building in Dublin City centre, where they have a great beer garden and even a double decker bus out the back where you can grab a pizza and sit on the renovated Big Blue Bus for a few drinkies. This place hast be seen to be believed, it is awesome! Well worth checking out and hanging with some locals.

13. The Hairy Lemon. This trendy Dublin City centre hangout is like a pub café where you can dress however you like, not have a care in the world and enjoy great company and some live music. An authentic design with a great atmosphere. You will be treated to a proper Irish welcome and they make a mean Irish coffee. Food’s great and the company is fantastic. Granny’s kitchen in a pub!

So those are the best most charming pubs in Dublin and Wicklow in my opinion. Do you have a favourite pub in Dublin or Wicklow that I have failed to mention yet? Do divulge in the comments! I love finding new places to add to my list 😉

If you are travelling to Ireland and staying in Dublin or Wicklow then do yourself a favour and pay some of these (if not all!) a visit. You won’t be disappointed! You will be bound to meet some friendly locals and have the craic, with a bit of Irish music and a maybe a Guinness? Try some delicious Irish pub food and immerse yourself in Irish culture. You might even try some Irish dancing while you’re at it! Either way, you will have a fantastic experience.

Sláinte!

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