Leinster (The East) - Ireland for Tourists - page 31

Pubs & Clubs
Dublin is rightly famous for its drinking scene. At one end of the spectrum, you'll find tra-
ditional pubs with a relaxed, earthy atmosphere - many of them claiming to be over 1,000
years old! At the other end of the spectrum are Dublin's many nightclubs, which generally
cater to a young, international clientele. Young people from all over Europe flock to Dub-
lin's clubs to dance, giving them a global, pan-European feel. And all along that spectrum,
you'll find plenty of Guinness, fine whiskey, and craic (Irish for camaraderie and boisterous
conversation).
Traditional Pubs
There are many claims to the title of Dublin's oldest pub , and no one knows for sure which
one is true. The most common answer is the Brazen Head , established in 1198. With its
intimate setting, the Brazen Head is also one of Dublin's best venues for traditional music.
Ordinarily there will be a “trad” band playing lively tunes in a corner, but even when there
are no musicians onstage, the patrons will frequently break out into traditional Irish folk
songs, which can be a truly sublime musical experience. Between the timeless music, the
beer, and the worn stone walls, it's easy to feel like you've stepped into a place that is im-
mune to the passage of time.
Whether or not the Brazen Head is in fact the oldest pub in Dublin, it has certainly preserved
its historic feel better than most. Here, though, are a few of the other contenders:
The Celt (81 Talbot Street)
Renowned for its nightly music sessions and an excellent kitchen.
An Conradh (6 Harcourt Street)
An Irish-language pub, popular with Irish-speaking locals (tragically, a dwindling popula-
tion). Whereas many of the traditional pubs in Ireland are heavily patronized by tourists, this
one tends to be more popular with locals.
Mulligan's (Poolbeg Street)