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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Clare McCarthy

Ireland beer gardens: 50 of the best in Dublin, Cork and beyond to enjoy mini-summer weather sizzler

There are two days of glorious weather ahead for Ireland, with clear skies and highest temperatures of 20C forecast.

The warm weather blast will be short-lived with rain returning on Sunday but it still gives us the first two days of proper summer weather to enjoy.

And one of the best places to be on a sunny Saturday is sipping a cold beer in the sun with friends.

READ MORE: Where will be hottest as country basks in two-day Met Eireann sun blast

We’ve put together a list of 50 of the best beer gardens and outdoor drinking areas across Ireland for you to enjoy this weekend:

Leinster

1) The Roof Garden at Fitzsimons Temple Bar, Dublin

The Roof Garden is located on the top floor of Fitzsimons bar and offers a stunning view over the rooftops of Temple Bar, making it one of the best places to be on a sunny day in and Dublin City.

It features unique local art with custom wall murals, bright colour themed picnic bench seating, summer flower hanging baskets, Japanese tree plant and a full replica of the ha'penny bridge hanging on the wall.

It has a retractable roof that can cover the area in case of rain and it has plenty of outdoor heaters for comfort. Customers can expect cocktails, a full bar and a tasty food menu.

Check out the website and menu here.

2) The Back Page, Phibsborough, Dublin

The Back Page in Phibsborough is an ideal spot to soak up some rays. Grab a pizza, craft beer and a board game as you enjoy the fresh air.

As well as offering some of the finest pizza in the city, The Back Page also has a massive choice of craft beers on tap, which isn't a surprise given it's owned by Bodytonic - the company behind other pubs such as The Bernard Shaw.

Check out the website here.

3) Bonobo, Smithfield, Dublin

The beer garden in Bonobo in Smithfield is the perfect spot for a pint in the sun.

It is just a short walk from the city centre and offers craft beer on tap and some of the best pizza in Dublin.

Follow for updates on their Instagram page.

4) Toners, Baggot Street Lower, Dublin

Situated on Lower Baggot Street, Toners is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous traditional pubs. They have a huge open-air beer garden out the back and they provide pizzas for their customers from their neighbours Cirillo’s.

Check out their website here.

5) Fade Street Social, Dublin

Fade Street Social is a very popular haunt in Dublin’s city centre. The bar has a pretty outdoor area out back that becomes even nicer in the sunshine.

With a menu full of tasty dishes, it's no surprise that they are a go-to spot to grab a bite, cocktail and/or pint.

Check out their menu here.

6) Blackbird, Rathmines, Dublin

Blackbird in Rathmines is a go-to hipster bar in Dublin, with a large outdoor seating area.

If you're a fan of pizza, board games, free Chipsticks and Drumsticks, and an extensive beer menu, then Blackbird is for you.

You can make a table booking here.

7) The Merry Ploughboy, Rathfarnham, Dublin

The Merry Ploughboy Pub, Dublin (The Merry Ploughboy Pub Facebook)

The Merry Ploughboy in is an iconic Dublin pub for craic and ceile. It is well known for being one of the best live music venues in Dublin.

Their chicken wings are second to none and their staff bring a strong ‘cead mile failte’ to all guests. They are known in Dublin GAA circles for writing songs about the boys in blue.

They have plenty of outdoor seating in with scenic views of the Dublin mountains in the old world traditional Irish gastropub.

You can make a booking here.

8) The Strawberry Hall Pub, Strawberry Beds, Dublin

The Strawberry Hall pub located on the banks of the Liffey has upgraded its riverside beer garden during the pandemic, which adds to the country-like charm of this traditional Dublin pub.

It also serves delicious woodfired sourdough sambos and pizza in the boho-style beer garden from the on-site food truck Goat's Gruff.

Check out its Instagram here.

9) Harry Byrne's, Clontarf, Dublin

Harry Byrne's is an old-school Dublin Heritage pub dating back over 200 years.

You'll recognise this spot from its cherry window boxes overflowing with flowers and in addition, you'll find a perfectly pleasant beer garden tucked away.

Bookings can be made online.

10) Gibney's Malahide, Dublin

Gibney's Malahide, Dublin (Gibney's Malahide Facebook)

Gibney’s in the heart of Malahide is the perfect place to relax over a few drinks after a day on the beach.

This historic old boozer has a spacious beer garden with a famous 'Big Screen' for sports fans on match day.

You can contact them on http://www.gibneys.com/ or 01 845 0606

11) Fowler’s, Malahide, Co Dublin

Fowler’s is a family-run pub well known for its Guinness and is a previous winner of Best Bar in Ireland.

Featuring one of the first-ever full glass cold rooms so you can see all the inner workings from keg to tap, they also serve food for meat and vegan lovers.

Their beer garden is suitable no matter the weather.

It is a sun trap in the summer and they have an excellent heating system so when it gets chilly they slide the roof across so you can stay perfectly warm.

12) The Bloody Stream, Howth, Co Dublin

The Bloody Stream is based in the beautiful fishing village of Howth Co. Dublin and is conveniently located by the DART station.

They serve great food and drink in their wonderful beer garden which is fully covered but also has a retractable roof for sunnier days.

Customers can enjoy á la carte dining plus full drinks menu to include cocktails, wines, and beer.

They are taking bookings online at https://bloodystream.ie/

13) The Cafe Bar in Swords, Co Dublin

There is a glorious outdoor dining area at the front of The Cafe Bar with a fully covered area for diners and serving delicious burgers, wings and more. The Cafe Bar also has a full drinks menu to include cocktails, wines and beer.

Ever since it opened its doors in 2001, the award-winning bar has been acknowledged as a top venue in north Dublin.

Contact them at wrightscafebar@eircom.net or on 01 840 6760

14) Wrights Findlater, Howth, Co Dublin

Wright's Findlater on Harbour Road (Lisney)

The terrace on the second floor of Wrights in Howth has stunning views of Howth Harbour and Ireland’s Eye.

They have a full a la carte menu plus a full drinks menu to include cocktails, wine and beer.

You can contact them at info@findlater.ie or (0)1 832 4488.

15) The Anglers Rest, Dublin

Nestled on the banks of the River Liffey at the Strawberry Beds in Chapelizod, you can enjoy a meal on their waterside terrace.

There is a full a la carte menu plus a full drinks menu with both covered and uncovered spaces.

You can contact them at info@theanglersrest.ie or call 353 1 820 4351

16) Hogs & Heifers, Swords, Co Dublin

Enjoy their outdoor beer garden based in Airside Swords Co. Dublin.

They have a full a la carte menu including a super burger plus a full drinks menu to include cocktails, wine and beer.

You can make a booking on www.hogsandheifers.ie or call 01 890 2523.

17) Billy Byrne's, Co Kilkenny

John Street in Co Kilkenny is the perfect location for this delightfully cosy outdoor spot.

It is made up of pallet furniture, picnic tables, tent roofing, and even a double-decker bus to go along with tasty food and drink.

Billy Byrne's beer garden in Kilkenny is one of the standouts in Ireland.

Check out their website here.

18) The Duke, Athy, Co Kildare

The Duke is a family run business, owned by Brendan and Deirdre Kelly, with a beer garden out the back.

The Duke is known in the locality for great music sessions, pool competitions and darts.

You can email them info@theduke.ie or call them (059) 863 8947

19) Sean's Bar, Athlone, Co Westmeath

Sean's Bar in Athlone, Co Westmeath. (Sean's Bar)

Acknowledged as one of the best pubs in the world, Ireland's oldest pub lets you travel back in time for a quiet pint or enjoy it out in the lively beer garden full of antique decor.

It was listed in both “25 of the Most Incredible Bars in the World” and “50 Bars to Blow Your Mind” by Lonely Planet, a visit to Sean’s is a must.

You can contact them at info@seansbar.ie or on 090 649 2358.

Looking for a pint with a view?

20) Haddington House, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin

Haddington House in Dun Laoghaire (Instagram)

This pub in south Dublin lets you look out to sea while taking in the rays and is perfect for that cheeky Sunday afternoon sojourn.

It is an ideal spot to park up in and relax after a walk along Dun Laoghaire's picturesque pier.

If you are feeling peckish, their Olivito garden restaurant will serve pints, cocktails and big sandwiches as well as their signature tasty pizzas.

21) The Blue Light, Sandyford, Co Dublin

The Blue Light (Instagram)

Located in the foothills of the Dublin mountains, The Blue Light offers incredible views over south Dublin from its outdoor seating area.

It's a little out of the way, but the 44B bus drops you right outside the door and the live music, authentic Irish pub feel and the scenery make it all worth the journey.

Munster

22) The Lifeboat Inn, Courtmacsherry, Co Cork

This famous pub located in a gorgeous part of west Cork has a stunning waterside beer garden that is perfect for the good weather.

It is beloved by holidaymakers visiting the area and you can enjoy some of the best gastropub food you'll get just about anywhere in west Cork. (P.S. the fish and chips and 'to die for'.)

You can check out their menu and website here.

23) Oscar Madison's, Kinsale, Co Cork

A small but lively beer garden experience awaits you in Oscar Madison's, a well-known family-run Kinsale watering hole.

Check out their website here.

24) Coughlan's Bar, Douglas Street, Co Cork

The Queen of Cork City's traditional pubs - fabulous Coughlan's on Douglas Street has it all, an award-winning music venue, an authentic Victorian bar and a covered beer garden that wraps around the back and side of the venue and almost doubles their space.

Check out their website here.

25) O'Mahoney's Watergrasshill, Co Cork

O'Mahoney's - famous for their gourmet gastropub fare - have one of the best country-pub beer gardens going and it can be a magical place on summer evenings.

One for the foodies (although they also do a mean selection of craft beers, gins and wines) and a very special place in the little village of Watergrasshill.

You can contact them on 353 (0)86 831 6879 or omahonysofwgh@gmail.com

26) Clancy's Rooftop Bar, Prince's Street, Cork

Clancy's is at the heart of one of the most hopping streets in Cork. The top floor bar is a stylish space that's perfect for parties big and small or just getting the glad rags on for a special Saturday night.

Put this one on your list if you haven't been already (and few got the chance) because it's something new and very different in the city centre (plus, the food is great too).

You can contact them at omahonysofwgh@gmail.com or (0)86 831 6879.

27) The Castle, Glanmire, Co Cork

The Castle recently underwent the royal treatment and to put in a brand new, purpose-built beer garden called 'The Yard'.

It makes it a spot for drinking on a summery day - with the usual good food and live DJs and music to add to the atmosphere.

Check out their website here.

28) The Corner Flag, Turner's Cross, Cork

This soccer-themed gastropub features a beer garden that will look out over the pitch at Turner's Cross.

So if you fancy a pint, a bite and maybe a view of Cork City FC playing live, The Corner Flag is well worth a visit (even if there's not actually a game on).

29) McCarthy's Bar, Finuge, Co Kerry

This traditional Kerry boozer has a cosy outdoor area and is the perfect spot to soak up that unique Finuge atmosphere. During the pandemic it opened up a beer garden which can now be to good use in sunny weather.

Walk-ins will work when things are quiet but on warm sunny weekends, your best bet is to ring McCarthy's at 068 40213 and book a table in advance.

30) Sammy's Bar, Inch, Co Kerry

Sammy's Bar, Kerry (Sammy's Bar, Kerry Facebook)

Sammy’s bar is on a sandy beach in Co Kerry. With the soundtrack of breaking waves and sun in your eyes, it is a fabulous location to enjoy some tasty bites in the sun.

You can contact them on 066 915 8118.

31) Jack Meade's, Waterford

Jack Meade's, Waterford (Jack Meade's, Waterford Facebook)

With a playground for the kids and a delicious restaurant alongside it, Jack Meades is a great bet for a sunny day.

It also has a glass-covered garden for when it rains so the adults can sip a few cocktails while the children run around.

The large indoor bar and extensive beer garden is suitable for everyone with a barbecue, restrooms, baby changing facilities and a pet farm area for kids too.

It’s a mere 4 miles from Waterford City centre and is situated in the heart of farmland and woodland area.

You can contact Jack Meade’s at info@jackmeades.com or call 051 850 950.

32) The Moorings, Dungarvan

The Moorings, Dungarvan, Co Waterford (The Moorings, Dungarvan, Co Waterford Facebook)

Right on the seafront in this lovely Waterford town, The Moorings is one of our top spots to enjoy a pint and a bite outdoors.

With a rustic décor, combined with a lively and welcoming atmosphere, it is the perfect place to have a few drinks and enjoy a meal.

The building is steeped in maritime history, and as well as the beautiful harbour views to the front, the outdoor courtyard bar is bordered by the ancient castle walls of the 12th Century King John's Castle.

You can contact them on http://themoorings.ie/ or call 353 (0)58 414 61.

33) 101 O'Connell Street, Limerick

101 O'Connel Street, Co Limerick (101 O'Connell Street Limerick)

Since 101 O'Connell Street opened in Limerick in 2017, it became popular. The heart and uniqueness of the pub is their signature outdoor bar, with ample heating, colourful lighting, plants and creative design.

The bar offers an escape into a stylish “Secret Garden” venue, where you can sip your drink It is known for its delicious cocktails.

34) Curragower Bar, Limerick

Curragower, Limerick (Curragower, Limerick Facebook)

The Curragower bar is at the heart of Limerick’s Medieval Quarter. The ideal spot to keep a close eye over the happenings on the river and the city's old castle in a stunning location on the banks of the River Shannon.

They offer high-quality food and a wide selection of drinks in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Connacht

35) Tigh Ned, Inis Oírr, Co Galway

Tigh Ned, Inis Oírr, Co Galway (Tigh Ned, Inis Oírr, Co Galway Facebook)

Hop on a boat for a sup at Tigh Ned, a small family run pub on Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, with a really lovely outdoor area.

The beautiful scenery of grey stone walls, cottages, stunning sea views and the sea breeze is worth the trip out west.

They have a selection of paninis and wraps along with salads, homemade soup and sandwiches - with seafood caught locally by the owner as they thrive to provide the freshest possible seafood.

You can contact them on info@tighned.com or 099-75004.

36) Kennedy’s Hayloft Bar, Strokestown, Co Roscommon

Kennedy’s Hayloft Bar, situated in the centre of pretty Strokestown in Roscommon have an outdoor space for revellers with a new and improved beer garden since Covid days.

You can contact them on 087 293 5591 or on Facebook.

37) An Pucan, Galway

An Pucan, Galway (An Pucan, Galway Facebook)

If you're a beer garden fan you definitely know all about An Pucan.

Their lively beer garden in Galway city is full of flowery decorations and live music, not to mention the delicious food they have to offer to go alongside your drink.

38) Walker 1781, Sligo

Walker 1781 is a new bar and restaurant in Sligo that opened during the pandemic and have two neat separate outdoor areas.

Serving seven days a week, Sligo’s must-visit venue offers traditional, local produce with a contemporary twist, all curated by well-known Sligo restauranteurs Joe Grogan and Grainne Sheridan.

You can contact them on info@walker1781.com or call (071) 961 5525.

39) The Blue Lagoon Bar, Sligo

The Blue Lagoon Bar Sligo is a family ran bar set in the backdrop of the picturesque Garavouge river.

The exterior has been transformed over the last twelve months to create a beautiful terrace and beer garden.

The new Koha Street Kitchen has also been added to the outdoor area meaning customers can now enjoy a bite to eat along with some pints.

You can contact them thebluelagoonsligo@hotmail.com or on 0719142530.

40) The Beach Bar, Sligo

The Beach Bar, Sligo (The Beach Bar, Sligo Facebook)

The Beach Bar in Sligo is snugly located along the strand of Aughris Head. It has wonderful food, drink and service all housed in a traditional thatch cottage.

You can contact them on http://www.thebeachbarsligo.com/ and 071 917 6465.

41) O’Connell’s Bar, Eyre Square, Galway

O'Connell's bar on Eyre Square is known for its iconic beer garden, which is the perfect spot to hand out with friends in good weather.

The back of O’Connell’s offers everything you want in a beer garden, along with a pizza oven serving up the award-winning Dough Bros Pizza.

42) The Towers Bar and Restaurant, Westport, Co Mayo

The Towers, Westport, Co Mayo (The Towers, Westport, Facebook)

This is a gastropub and bistro restaurant with an outstanding beer garden and purpose-built kiddies playground.

The Towers Bar, Restaurant & Guest Accommodation is situated on the quayside in Westport with breath-taking views of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s iconic Holy mountain.

Ulster

43) O'Flaherty's Bar, Buncrana, Co Donegal

O'Flaherty's bar is in its third generation and their beer garden is a must-see. Their beer garden has a cabin bar, putting greens and even a bulldog mascot named Blu.

You can contact them at http://www.oflahertysbar.com/ and 074 9361305.

44) The Cottage Bar, Buncrana, Co Donegal

The Cottage bar is a treasure trove of unique artistic features and local historical relics are woven together. From the mosaic of wine corks that adorn the walls to the quaint beer garden that inhabits the back, it is a spot worth seeing in Donegal.

The Cottage is a fourth-generation family run bar, a tradition that is kept alive today by Liam and Teresa McDaid.

It is located on Buncrana's lower main street.

45) The Bone Yard at Pug Ugly's, Belfast

The Bone Yard is a beautiful space that manages to be a suntrap despite being in the midst of Belfast's city centre.

All of their picnic tables are first-come, first-serve but it is taking bookings for selected seating.

You can contact them on http://www.theboneyardbelfast.com or call 44 28 9032 0030

46) Kelly's Cellars, Belfast

Located on Bank Square, in the heart of the city centre, Kelly's is one of Belfast's most famous bars.

Bookings are for three hours by default and they also keep a small number of tables available for walk-ins, where they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

You can contact them on http://www.kellyscellars.co.uk/ or 028 9024 6058

47) Harry's Shack, Portstewart

The outdoor beer garden at Harry's Shack is located directly next to Portstewart Strand with unbeatable beachfront views.

It serves a menu of fresh local seafood as well as their own house IPA.

48) The Thirsty Goat, Belfast

Located in the bustling, atmospheric area of the Cathedral Quarter, this popular space has tables available for bookings and tables for allocation on arrival.

You can contact them on https://thethirstygoat.co.uk/ or 028 9024 1415.

49) Love & Death, Belfast

A lovely street-side bar located in Corn Market, Love & Death is taking bookings for Fridays and Saturdays, and first-come, first-serve on other days.

The bar Ann Street is a Belfast city centre liquor hideaway. There is a warm hazy atmosphere in both the bar and the club

You can contact them on http://loveanddeathcocktails.co.uk/ or 028 9024 7222.

50) Dirty Onion, Belfast

The Dirty Onion is Belfast's liveliest beer garden, where the craic is guaranteed to be flowing.

Opening every day from 12noon with mouth-watering chicken available from the Yardbird restaurant. The Dirty Onion is operating a first come, first served basis so be sure to get down early to enjoy a Jameson Black Barrel and Ginger Ale in one of Belfast's most historic buildings.

You can contact them on http://www.thedirtyonion.com/ or call 44 28 9024 3712.

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