There’s a long standing tradition in Ireland that pubs would frequently double as boarding houses, hotels, and temporary accommodation for the wandering traveler. Although this isn’t necessarily as common as it used to be, there are still pubs that retain this function. There are also some instances where Airbnb has taken over this role and apartments nearby or above pubs are rented out on the letting service.
Here’s a few pubs that you can stay near the next time you’re in Dublin.
O’Neill’s, Pearse Street
O’Neill’s on Pearse Street is one of Dublin’s most visually striking traditional pubs, both inside and out. If you live in the city, even if you haven’t been inside you’ll surely recognise it for its outstanding hanging baskets that decorate the facade in the warmer months. Inside it’s one of the 16 remaining Victorian era pubs of Dublin with classic pub features.
They serve food daily and the seating options are varied and interesting. Just take a look at the room at the front that resembles a study area in an old townhouse.
Above the pub is O’Neill’s Guesthouse. It’s centrally located a few hundred metres from Trinity College and the rest of the city and public transport is on your doorstep. Link.
The Blue Light, Dublin Mountains
The Blue Light in Barnaculla in the Dublin Mountains has possibly the best view of any pub in the county. The view is clear and enables you to see all over the city and down the north and south coast lines. The pub itself attracts visitors from the city and locals, stopping by to enjoy the regular traditional music sessions.
This would be a good getaway not far from the city that allows you to take a hike nearby and return for a well earned pint afterwards. It’s located close to Stepaside village, so you’re not completely cut off from civilisation.
They have an apartment attached to the pub that has 2 beds and can house 4 people. Airbnb Link.
O’Donoghue’s
Dublin locals may be unaware that the iconic O’Donoghue’s of Merrion Row, famed for a decades long traditional Irish music association, has a guesthouse attached to the pub.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Dublin where you can walk out the door and into a piece of Dublin pub history, then look no further. There’s always a live music session on here (not amplified) that will surely keep you entertained over a few pints. It’s an extremely central location, a minutes walk from Saint Stephen’s Green.
For such a central location, the rooms are actually quite reasonable. You can check them out via this link.
The Ferryman
We’ve previously described The Ferryman pub and building as looking like the house from ‘Up’, located as it is in between all the modernised structures of Dublin’s financial and technology hub. It’s a very popular pub, being one of the only traditional spots in the area.
They have 18 guest rooms, most of which have lovely views over the river Liffey. Wouldn’t that be a nice way to wake up? One sightseeing option would be to walk straight out the door of your pub hotel, onto the Dublin Bay Cruises ship and make your way out to the beautiful seaside village of Howth for a day trip.
Mulligans, Stoneybatter
Mulligans in Stoneybatter is a pub that has received international recognition for its food offering, craft beer, and service. It’s one of the best dining experiences in the area and is somewhere you should pay a visit to if you want to experience the best quality, locally sourced food and drinks.
Stoneybatter is a lovely village and a great place to base yourself before heading to see all that the North side of Dublin has to offer. This apartment will cater to 5 guests and has 3 beds in 2 bedrooms. Airbnb Link.
