O’Donoghue’s

O'Donoghue's on Merrion Row is a traditional bar dating back to 1789 with live Irish music every night. Just off St Stephen's Green, it is a pub where live music is part of every night rather than a special event, which makes it an easy choice for visitors who want to hear Irish music without travelling far from the centre.

Live Irish music is played every night. From Monday to Thursday the music runs from 20:00 until midnight, on Friday from 18:30 and on Saturday from 17:30 until midnight, and on Sunday it goes on all day. That means you can drop in at almost any time on a weekend afternoon or evening and find music playing.

The pub can get very busy at weekends. Arrive early in the evening if you want a seat, or come on a weeknight for a more relaxed visit. It suits couples, groups of friends and solo travellers happy to chat at the bar. Children are best brought earlier in the day.

O'Donoghue's also offers accommodation, with newly decorated en-suite rooms with TV and fridge, which is a convenient option for visitors who want to stay right in the centre and close to the music. Ask the pub directly about availability and rates, and bear in mind that a room above a busy music pub may not suit light sleepers.

Merrion Row runs from the north-east corner of St Stephen's Green, so the pub is a few minutes from the Shelbourne Hotel, Grafton Street and the National Museum of Archaeology. Several restaurants are on the same street, which makes it easy to pair dinner with a few hours of music. Opening hours are not listed on the website, so call +353 1 660 7194 if you want to check. You can also email [email protected].

To make the most of a visit, come with a group who enjoy a sing-along atmosphere, or come alone and take a seat at the bar to listen. Weekday evenings after 20:00 are the best time if you want to hear the music without battling for space, while Sunday is the day to drop in at any hour. Combine a visit with dinner on Merrion Row or a walk through St Stephen's Green beforehand, and keep an eye on time if you are catching the last Luas home.