Bubbles O’Learys

Bubbles O'Learys is a Kololo institution, an Irish pub on Acacia Avenue, now officially John Babiha Avenue, that has been a fixture of Kampala nightlife for more than two decades. Its bar and furnishings were brought over from an old pub in Ireland, and Lonely Planet counts it among the city's most authentic pubs. The official Visit Kampala listing describes it as a pub in the pure Irish tradition, and it has celebrated St Patrick's Day for more than twenty years.

Much of the action happens outside. A large terrace and beer garden fill up in the evening with a mix of Ugandans, long-term expatriates and visitors that makes it a sociable place for visitors. On warm evenings the terrace is the place to be, while the indoor bar is the better choice during heavy rain. Inside, the pub keeps the traditions: beers, whiskies and cocktails at the bar, and sport on the screens for big matches.

The entertainment programme changes through the week, with DJ nights, karaoke, quiz nights and live music, plus sports screenings, so check what is on before you go if you want a particular kind of evening. Quiz nights suit groups of friends; karaoke and DJ nights are livelier and later. Food runs to pub fare and grills, with roast meats, pizzas and wraps, so you can eat without moving on.

It suits almost anyone looking for a relaxed night out, from solo travellers to groups of friends and colleagues after work. Weekends are the busiest time, so arrive early if you want a table on the terrace, and call ahead about special events. Opening hours are not published, so phone the pub to check times and the week's line-up of quiz, karaoke and band nights.

Acacia Avenue is the heart of Kololo's restaurant and bar district. Khana Khazana is on the same road and Cantine DiVino is nearby for dinner first, while Kisementi, with La Terraza Rooftop and other bars, is a short walk away. Acacia Mall is close by, and taxis and boda bodas are easy to find on the avenue at the end of the night.