
Tigh Neachtain
A historic, all-wood pub since 1894, Tigh Neachtain offers a cozy atmosphere, rich history, and delicious traditional Irish food and drinks.

Highlights
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Tigh Neachtain

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, all-wood pub since 1894, Tigh Neachtain offers a cozy atmosphere, rich history, and delicious traditional Irish food and drinks.
"This place is a gem with character and history oozing from every corner!"
Visit Off-Peak
Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Try Local Seafood
Don't miss the fresh oysters or Galway Bay mussels for an authentic taste of the region.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Irish Pub
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+353 91 568 820
Address
17 Cross Street Upper, Galway, H91 F9F7, Ireland
Website
tighneachtain.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Pub Charm
Step back in time in this cozy, all-wood pub dating back to 1894, adorned with books, art, and a rich history.

Fresh Oysters & Seafood
Savor exquisite fresh oysters and Galway Bay mussels, a true taste of the local coast.

Traditional Irish Flavors
Indulge in hearty traditional Irish dishes like slow-cooked beef in Guinness, a comforting classic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit Off-Peak
Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Try Local Seafood
Don't miss the fresh oysters or Galway Bay mussels for an authentic taste of the region.
Explore the Rooms
Discover unique decor and cozy spots by exploring the various rooms and snugs within the pub.
Engage with Locals
Chat with friendly locals at the bar for authentic insights and a true Irish experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit Off-Peak
Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Try Local Seafood
Don't miss the fresh oysters or Galway Bay mussels for an authentic taste of the region.
Explore the Rooms
Discover unique decor and cozy spots by exploring the various rooms and snugs within the pub.
Engage with Locals
Chat with friendly locals at the bar for authentic insights and a true Irish experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tigh Neachtain is a beloved historic pub with a fantastic atmosphere, praised for its fresh seafood and traditional Irish dishes. While many enjoy the cozy snugs, extensive drink selection, and lively ambiance, some patrons have experienced issues with staff rudeness and being denied service, particularly larger groups or during busy periods.
"Cider was delicious and cold. Service was really good, bartenders were helpful and attentive. However, the atmosphere wins. I felt I was in 1901. In a good way. I felt distracted, amazed, and in awe with all the decor, the bottles, the history. Lovely place to just sit and people watch and relax."
Glenda Velez
"Very quick stop at Tigh Neachtain during a walking food and drinks tour in Galway and it was really fun. The pub is a really old from back in the 1800s, traditional Irish pub serving pretty much everything you’d expect them to serve: beer! But their food offerings are really next level.
We had a good sample to try a few of their dishes, starting with fresh oysters - flaggy shore dainty oysters. Very different from what I’ve tasted before and delicious. Then fresh Galway bay mussels in Guinness, garlic and basil broth, phenomenal. Then we tried the Pota Mór Feoil - a slow cooked Irish beef in Guinness and red wine, with root vegetables and it was both filling and flavorful, perfect for cold weather.
Had a taste of a local beer and a cider to spice things up a bit."
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
"We were on a bus tour of Ireland and we spent a couple of days in Galway. We went to the Latin Quarter several times to see the action, drink and eat. A really fun place to hangout.
We spent a couple of hours at Tigh Neachtain drinking and eating. Lots of fun."
Perry Harbour
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a historic pub dating back to 1894 with a unique all-wood interior, cozy snugs, fireplaces, and a lively atmosphere. It's known for its extensive whiskey selection and traditional Irish music.
They are famous for fresh local oysters, Galway Bay mussels, and traditional Irish dishes like slow-cooked beef in Guinness. Toasties and seafood chowder are also popular.
Yes, live music, often traditional Irish sessions, takes place weekly and contributes to the pub's vibrant atmosphere.
The pub can be crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends. Visiting during off-peak times or weekdays is recommended to avoid long waits.
Some reviews indicate that larger groups, especially those perceived as stag or hen parties, may face issues with service or be denied entry.
Tigh Neachtain boasts a 130-strong whiskey menu, a well-appointed beer selection, and good wine options.
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The Top Pubs And Bars In Galway, Ireland
A veritable Galway institution, Tigh Neachtain has been in operation since 1894. This bar is one of the region’s favourites for many reasons, which include its snug charm, the 130-strong whiskey menu and the fact it is situated in the former townhouse of Richard Martin – the 19th-century Irish animal rights campaigner who King George IV famously nicknamed ‘Humanity Dick’. Tigh Neachtain rivals Tig Coili in the traditional Irish music stakes – live music takes place every week, and there is even an album featuring famous artists like Sharon Shannon playing at the pub, entitled Ceol Tigh Neachtain: Music from Galway.
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Galway is a city of pubs, but Tigh Neachtain’s is probably the most beloved of them all. Instantly recognisable by its blue-and-yellow exterior (and by the dozens of people enjoying pints outside on a summer evening), inside it’s a wooden warren of rooms that are usually occupied by patrons warming themselves by a fire, a group of musicians playing a traditional session, or students crammed into a carved snug. As for the decor, the pub is a treasure trove of books, old whiskey bottles, framed posters, and some beautiful maps of the west coast of Ireland.
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This bright-blue, mural-scarred pub is in the hub of Galway's medieval center and the core of its beating heart. For more than 120 years its mahogany snugs and alcoves have given patrons refuge from the city's infamous mist and rain while its stock of more than 130 brands of whiskey has fueled heat through their veins. Predictably, it's buzzing on the weekends.
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Situated opposite one of the best bookshops in the west, Charlie Byrne's, and close to Tigh Neachtain pub and the Taibhdhearc Theatre, Chi's location is perfect for a good evening out. Review by Lorna Siggins
Galway’s pubs well represented in Sunday Times Best Irish Pub List
Described by Stokes as being “the most beautiful city pub in Ireland,” Tigh Neachtain’s status as a visual and cultural gem has earned its place on the list. Established in 1894, Tigh Neachtain’s long history in the city is present throughout its all-wood interior, packed full of private snugs and decorated with local artwork, including Galway International Arts Festival posters throughout the event’s history. With an extensive seating area which wraps around the side of the pub, Tigh Neachtain’s iconic blue walls and Galway-themed mural serve as the backdrop for hundreds of snaps by tourists and visitors to the city each year.
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Local comedian John Donnellan recently quipped that you need to drink in Tigh Neachtain at least three or four nights a week if you are to be considered a “serious artist” in Galway. There was an element of truth to his provocative claim, as many a novel, poem, or screenplay was conjured up – if not quite completed – within the pub’s four walls. With a splendid location in the heart of the city’s Latin Quarter, good food from the stylish restaurant upstairs, open fireplaces, and live music, this has been a firm favorite with a Bohemian clientele for decades.
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One of Galway’s most famous pubs, Tigh Neachtain’s hard to miss shining proudly in its bright blue and yellow hues on Cross Street. A tiny front-room of a bar with lots of little nooks, crannies, love seats and quiet corners out back if you can find a space, alternatively perch by the bar surrounded by roaring conversation or brave the brisk Galway cold whilst nursing your pint on the streetside seating. Not only is there a well-appointed beer line-up, there’s fabulous wine selections and a discernible spirits list.
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Few if any Galway pubs boast an interior as perfect as Neachtain’s on the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street. It opened in 1894 and, when you saunter inside, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time thanks to the beautiful old wooden panelling, dark cosy corners and memorabilia from times past. During the colder months, it’s one of the few bars in Galway where you’ll find a real fire crackling away, but by God the seats near it are rarely without an a*se on them!
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Nestled in the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter, Tigh Neachtain is one of the city’s most beloved pubs, boasting over 120 years of history. This charming, family-owned establishment, housed in an 1894 building, is known for its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent selection of beers and whiskeys. The pub’s interior is a delightful mix of snug corners, antique furnishings, and eclectic decor, making it an inviting spot for both locals and tourists.
Best Pubs Galway for Traditional Irish Music 2025
Tigh Neachtain is the traditional heartbeat of Galway city, where the sound of Irish folk and song echoes to the clink of glasses by the warmth of the hearth. The home of the creative soul, you can find writers, artists and poets amongst the crowd, drawing inspiration from the calm surrounds. Tigh Neachtain has played host to the most talented traditional Irish musicians and continues to foster home-grown talent, with live music throughout the week.
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Tigh Neachtain’s, housed in a historic medieval building, is a local favourite, known for its cosy ambience and live music sessions that capture the soul of Irish tradition. The Crane Bar, an iconic venue, exudes genuine charm and hosts lively music sessions, beckoning you to participate in the foot-tapping and hand-clapping revelry. A visit to these pubs promises not only the best of Irish beverages but also a genuine taste of local culture.
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This wood-clad pub is the definition of cosy, with open fires to chill next to while taking in the atmosphere of this innovative bar, which attracts all those who love to be inspired by the folk music that fills the air. There is live music throughout the week, so you will never miss your chance to enjoy a night at Tigh Neachtain, if you are interested in the best traditional Irish folk bands. Address: 17 Cross Street Upper, Galway, H91 F9F7
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Tigh Neachtain, right in the heart of the Latin Quarter’s busiest spot is the spot in Galway for a drink and some people watching. The distinctive and central blue and yellow pub was founded in 1894 and has seen some mad sessions over the years form musical talents like Sharon Shannon and Brendan O’Regan. They do some light pub food if you’re looking for a bite with your drink and they’ve a wide selection of every drink you can think up.
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Galway is a fantastic city for people watching and there is no better place to sit back and take it all in than Tigh Neachtain. Located at the corner of two of Galway’s busiest streets, it can feel like the world is going by while you enjoy a drink outside. Alternatively, if the weather isn’t good, there is an abundance of cosy seating and snugs inside that will make you feel like you’ve landed in Connemara instead of Cross Street.
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Galway’s artsy crowd always seems to make its way straight to Tigh Neachtain. The wood-lined pub is built inside the former home of Irish animal right’s activist Richard Martin and attracts free spirits of all types. The pub is well known to support local musicians and artists and serves its own brand of creativity in the form of home-brewed beer (though it also has Irish favorites and craft beer on tap, as well).
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You can’t go to Galway and not have a pint, and hopefully a singsong, in the legendary Tigh Neachtains. You will probably have heard of this pub before, and travel guides and blogs have been recommending it for years. The best thing about this lively bar is you never know who you might meet – the clientele is so mixed you could be singing along with a famous actor, business man or just a friendly street busker.
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One of the best pubs in Galway is Tigh Neachtain, this makes it rare to find a couple of free seats in this pub. Therefore, if you arrive at Neachtains pub and you find a free seat, hop on them for they might soon be taken. Seats are also kept outside Tig Neachtains but It’s also a struggle to get a seat outside on a normal day, hence if you are planning on visiting this spot, try getting there early.
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It’s hard to beat the colourful and characterful Tigh Neachtain, set at the heart of Galway’s Latin Quarter, while if it’s a great whiskey bar you’re after (or one of Galway’s finest Irish coffees) Garavan’s is your go-to. On the far side of Eyre Square you’ll find the traditionally styled former grocer’s O’Connell’s, with arguably Galway’s best beer garde, and the bustling sports bar An Pucan.
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Tigh Neachtain located in the heart of the Latin Quarter is the coziest pub in Galway. The bright blue and yellow exterior beckons you inside where you’ll find a beautiful wooden bar, those little nooks that are perfect for a book and a rainy day, and, of course, nice bartenders!. If the luck of the Irish is shining down on you with some sun, then take your pint outside to one of the tables.
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It’s hard to stand out among the paint-box buildings of Cross Street but blueberry-bright Tigh Neachtain manages it. Once inside, the pub is a higgledy-piggledy space of hidden snugs and table tops stripped of varnish from decades of spilled Guinness. There’s an open fire and a selection of craft beers, including Kinnegar Inquisitive Hare Hoppy Lager, which is brewed especially for the pub.
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If you’re into Irish history, Tigh Neachtain’s is a great place for you to visit. Founded in 1894, Tigh Neachtain’s offers everything from little-known craft beers and rare whiskeys to traditional Irish stew and a flash of seafood from the local docks. Tigh Neachtain’s is also a great place to come for live music, and its bright blue paint makes it easily noticeable from the street.
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Tigh Neachtains Pub & Artisan Restaurant - Galway City ireland Tigh Neachtain (Naughton's) is one of Galway's oldest pubs - the origins of the building are medieval and it has been in the McGuire family for three generations and the interior has remained unchanged since 1894. Quite unspoilt, it has great charm, an open fire and a friendly atmosphere - and the pint is good too.
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By now you are probably starting to see a trend with the names of the best pubs in Galway city. Tigh means house in Irish, so, many of these Galway pubs have the warm feelings attached of being welcomed into somebody’s home. Tigh Neachtain is the home of the creative soul, you can find writers, artists and poets amongst the crowd, drawing inspiration from the calm surrounds.
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Since 1894 Tigh Neachtain has been a pub that embraces Irish traditional music, featring some of the most talented Irish traditional musicians such as Sharon Shannon, Brendan O’Regan, and Deirbhile Ni Bhrolchain. Home to historic animal rights activist Richard Martin, Tigh Neachtain has always been a diverse meeting place where all are welcome. View this post on Instagram
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Tigh Neachtain, located on the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street in the heart of Galway City, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1894. This pub has been a vibrant meeting place for a diverse and eclectic clientele ever since it opened its doors. The building was formerly the home of Richard Martin, a prominent animal rights activist.
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Whatever your taste in pubs, there’s something for everyone at Neachtain’s. We love it for a bit of craic and tourists are drawn to its authentic Irish vibe that’s the making of an unforgettable night out!. Neachtain, which first opened in 1894, is a very unique spot when it comes to venues for music and has won many awards throughout its operation.
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A post shared by Tigh Neachtain (@tighneachtain) on Jun 15, 2019 at 5:17am PDT. Serving classic ales since 1894 and hosting one of the best and most artistic parties around Galway is Tigh Neachtain. Situated in its heart, at the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street, is one of the best Irish pubs that offer live barnyard quartets and many more!
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From the moment we walked through the door, we were greeted with warmth and a lively atmosphere that instantly made us feel at home. It was our first stop in Ireland, and boy, did it set the bar high!. The friendly locals at the bar wasted no time in making us feel like part of their gang, sharing stories and tips on how to properly enjoy stout.
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I couldn’t go without mentioning Tigh Neachtain – this place was recommended to me and I have to say it has got such a lovely interior. A blue building you can’t miss on your way to Eyre Square has a lot to offer, with lots of spaces to choose from inside. It’s got plenty of areas to catch up in and overall is a lovely addition to the list.
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Some of Ireland’s best trad musicians have played in Tigh Neachtain, including Sharon Shannon, Brendan O’Regan, Deirbhile Ni Bhrolchain, Kevin Hough, Breda Smyth and Brian Lennon. A hub for live music and culture, with home brewed beers and a menu full of locally sourced produce to accompany. https://www.instagram.com/p/CZuEtHCsrww/
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This pub was first opened in 1894 and has been most well-known for hosting a wide variety of musicians including Brian Lennon and Sharon Shannon. This is one of the best pubs in Galway for music as it offers some of the best live music in the city. It’s a budget-friendly pub that is homey and comfortable inside.
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Regarded as one of the most popular pubs in Galway, Tigh Neachtain has been in operation since 1894. With historic charm and relaxed seating, you’ll feel right at home here. Tigh Neachtain prides itself on providing eccentric individuals with a comfortable place to meet and speak without judgement.
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Tigh Neachtain’s in Galway city is a favourite for its artsy, bohemian vibe and consistently excellent Guinness. It’s a hub for locals, students, and visitors alike. It’s the best spot in the city to sit outside and people watch, and inside, it can be very warm and cosy on a cold winter evening
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Tigh Neachtain’s is another great option for the black stuff. It’s a convivial pub dating from the 19th century, which has historically attracted the city’s musicians, writers and artists – though these days it’s heaving with every type of character from morning until close.
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Tigh Neachtain is a hidden gem in Galway, known for its cozy atmosphere and live music. This traditional Irish pub is tucked away in a charming alleyway, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and a lively atmosphere.
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Tigh Neachtain is a popular pub in the heart of Galway, Ireland. It has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with open fireplaces and all-wood interiors, creating a warm and inviting space. The pub also features live music, with various local musicians performing regularly.
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This historic gem boasts wooden paneling, crackling fires, and a vibe that’s as warm as its hospitality. With live music to serenade your senses and a prime spot in the Latin Quarter, it’s the perfect pitstop for a pint and a bit of craic. Check them out on Facebook!
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A busy and character-filled pub in the centre of Galway that dates back to the 1800s. With live music every night of the week, this is a spot where you can have a bite to eat, a few drinks and meet some friendly musicians, poets and more. View this post on Instagram
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A pint at the bar beside the fireplace on a wet, wintry evening, eavesdropping on a trad practice session or squeezing into the most perfectly proportioned snugs in town, there’s a reason why Neachtains is so popular. Definitely one to try out for a quiet one.
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Tigh Neachtain is always on the list of favourite bars from both locals and tourists. Sit outside on a sunny day and watch the colourful array of people swarm through the Latin Quarter. Inside, the live traditional music is second to none in the evening.
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Found in the heart of medieval Galway this pub is housed in the building which used to be the house of famous politician and animal rights activist Richard Martin, known as Humanity Dick. The bar itself has its own long and varied history.
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This pub dates back to 1894, and is still widely-loved today. That’s when you know they’re doing something right!. It was even the famous American poet and philosopher Allen Ginsberg’s favorite place to grab a drink when he visited.
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Quay Street is also where you’ll find one of Galway’s most-loved pubs, Tigh Neachtain, home to the perfect pint of Guinness, traditional Irish musicians and a collection of historic Galway International Arts Festival posters.
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Tigh Neachtain (pronounced "nee-haun") is a traditional Irish pub on Cross Street in the heart of Galway City. The bar is named after the Irish word for "Neachtain's house," a famous 17th-century poet and storyteller.
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You haven’t been in Galway until you’ve had a pint of Guinness in this legendary pub. Crowds of people gather inside – and out – day and night. It’s a lively spot that’s a must snap for a Galway Instagram photo.
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For a night out with the girls: “I love a good pint of Guinness so a great night out with the girls would involve a potter between Hughes in Woodquay, Freeney’s on High Street and Tigh Neachtain on Cross Street.
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it would have to be Tigh Neachtain or Naughtons as it is known locally yet is dearly loved and cherished the world over. Having offered comfort and succour to manys a weary soul for just about forever, Slainte.
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Classic and cozy with snugs and outdoor space, Tigh Neachtain is full of character and charm. In addition to the wide range of beer on tap, they also offer an incredible whiskey selection and good food, too!
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Tigh Neachtain has had a long running bond with the city’s musical and artistic communities. Originally the home of Richard Martin, an animal rights champion, this building has welcomed guests since 1894.
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Perhaps you’re eager to discover the best beer gardens in Galway?. If so, Tigh Neachtain on Cross Street is a great place to start. Enjoy one of their home-brewed beers in the fresh air with friends.
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Tigh na Neachtain ( Quay Street ) Best avoided really , but wortha look sometimes , touristy , has a long established reputation for being gay friendly but the owner's wife certainly isn't .
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Tigh Neachtain on Cross street is one of the oldest pubs in Galway. Here you can taste one of the typical craft beers of the city or a classic Guinness and have a wonderful evening!
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Tigh Neachtain – by far our favourite, a cozy wooden pub with quiet snooks and all around good atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub where there’s always someone to chat with
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Located upstairs from Tigh Neachtain, Sarah Croffey’s Kasbah Wine Bar has garnered quite the reputation for its brunch menu. Think creative egg dishes and decadent pancakes.
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You can expect quality food on the simple menu at Kasbah Wine Bar, which is located above Tigh Neachtain on bustling Quay Street in the heart of Galway.
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I recommend checking out Tig Coili, King’s Head, or Tigh Neachtain to start – but you will be afforded never ending opportunities for nightlife here!
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Arriving into town early, The Guru’s first stop of the day was a quick one in Tigh Neachtain, where the day got off to a flyer.
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Some of the more popular venues include The Galway Shawl, Tigh Neachtain, Monroe's Tavern, the Roisin Dubh and An Pucan.
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You can also experience local music at the popular The Crane Bar on Sea Road or Tigh Neachtain’s on Cross Street.
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