For a country of only around 5 million people, Ireland’s people and culture are impressively known the world over. Much of this is because of the droves of Irish immigrants who settled in the United States during the 1800s, but in more recent history, the Irish have taken international pop culture by storm. Think artists like U2, Niall Horan, and Hozier plus successful actors like Cillian Murphy and Saoirse Ronan. However, one of the most common things associated with the Emerald Isle is its pubs. An ideal Ireland itinerary would not be complete without visiting a few of them.
Crafting the distinct atmosphere of an Irish pub is often attempted even outside of places that historically have major Irish ties like New York City or Boston. To get close to the centuries-old origins of Irish pubs, The Brazen Head in Dublin is a perfect place to start. This fun locale in what many consider to be the most friendly European destination has much more to offer than pints of Guinness.
Listen to traditional Irish music at The Brazen Head
To find The Brazen Head, go to the south side of the River Liffey, which cuts through Dublin. The pub is just a few minutes east of some of Dublin’s highlights like Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Museum. The pub’s brick exterior is a sight to behold as the dark brown castle-like façade is reminiscent of medieval times despite the current structure only dating back to 1754. Its interior beauty is in the details. The Brazen Head has perfected the art of maximalism with historic photos and artifacts covering the walls. And while Ireland is not known for having frequent sunny weather, the pub’s outdoor courtyard is adorable enough to enjoy on a cloudy day.
First established as an inn in 1198, The Brazen Head is the oldest pub in Dublin. Some believed it to be the oldest in all of Ireland, but after some extensive research, Sean’s Bar in Athlone was declared the winner of the title (and may even be the oldest bar in the world!).
The Brazen Head consistently offers an authentic Irish experience that draws in all the senses. A key to the great atmosphere at Ireland’s pubs is, of course, the music. Rick Steves actually puts Ireland on his list of the best destinations in Europe for listening to live music. Check out live traditional Irish music every night or on Sunday afternoons from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the pub’s music room.
Order classic pub meals to go with your drinks
It likely does not come as a surprise that the draught menu at The Brazen Head is extensive and features a range of great local beers. You can order lagers, ales, ciders, and, of course, a classic pint of Guinness. Pair your drinks with traditional pub meals like beef stew, fish and chips, bangers and mash, and much more. Perhaps even grab an Irish coffee or apple crumble to finish the meal.
If you are in search of even more pub history in Dublin, book a spot on the Music, Beer, and Whiskey: The Irish Pub Experience from the City Unscripted tour company. This pub crawl includes well-known locations like Temple Bar, but City Unscripted’s local guides also take guests off the beaten path. With transportation included with this four-hour tour, this is a hassle-free way to see authentic pubs, taste-test some beers and whiskeys, listen to music, and learn the history behind these pubs.
