- Thomas Connolly (Sligo Town): Located at 1 Markievicz Rd, this is Sligo’s oldest pub, first licensed in 1861, offering a historic setting with live music and a vast whiskey selection. Voted Ireland’s Pub of the Year in 2023 and featured in Lonely Planet’s top 20 Irish pubs, it hosts over 200 premium whiskeys, craft beers, and a history tied to Charles Stewart Parnell and Mayor Thomas Connolly. A cozy, historic pub with a warm welcome, excellent Guinness, live music (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday), and whiskey tastings. Ideal for history buffs, music lovers, or those seeking an authentic Irish experience by the Garavogue River.
- McLynn’s Bar (Sligo Town): On Old Market St, this fourth-generation family pub since 1889 offers live music, a mahogany interior, and a roaring fire in colder months. Its reputation for top-notch live music and gorgeous traditional decor make it a standout, often cited as one of Ireland’s best for music. A warm, traditional pub with live music most weekends, great pints, and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for music enthusiasts and those seeking a classic Sligo experience.
- Hargadon Bros (Sligo Town): On O’Connell St, this 1864 pub, built by Bernard Collery, offers seafood-focused pub grub, craft beers, and a series of cozy snugs. Its historic charm, excellent seafood (oysters, chowder), and blend of old-world snugs with modern dining make it a culinary and cultural gem. A welcoming pub with delicious food, great Guinness, and a soothing atmosphere. Ideal for foodies or those visiting nearby St. John the Baptist Cathedral.
- The Snug (Sligo Town): On Market St by the Garavogue River, this cozy pub offers nightly live music, a wide range of craft beers, and a traditional setting. Its nightly “Sessions” open to passing musicians and reputation for some of Sligo’s best Guinness make it a local favorite. A compact, lively pub with excellent beer, live trad music, and friendly bartenders. Perfect for a vibrant night out or an authentic Irish pub experience.
- Shoot the Crows (Sligo Town): On Abbeyquarter North, this quirky pub with mismatched furniture and eclectic decor offers live music and a warm, welcoming vibe. Its unique, artsy atmosphere and reputation for mighty craic and live tunes make it a must-visit for a memorable Sligo night. A character-filled pub with great pints, live music, and a cozy setting. Ideal for those seeking a quirky, social experience.
- Furey’s Pub (Sligo Town): On Bridge St, this cozy pub is known for its brilliant buzz, live music, and traditional Irish atmosphere. Its near-nightly live sessions and packed weekends add to its lively charm, making it a top spot for music and craic. A bustling pub with great music, quality drinks, and a friendly crowd. Perfect for those looking for a lively night in Sligo’s heart.
- The Garavogue Bar & Restaurant (Sligo Town): On Stephen St, this modern venue features three bars (main bar, The Blind Tiger cocktail bar, The Secret Garden event space) and a vibrant atmosphere. Its multi-bar setup, live music, and popularity for stags and hens make it a dynamic nightlife hub with excellent cocktails. A lively, modern pub with great food, signature cocktails, and dancing. Ideal for groups or those seeking a party atmosphere.
- The Beach Bar (Aughris, Templeboy): On Aughris Beach, this thatched pub offers stunning views of Sligo Bay, hearty food, and a bed-and-breakfast option. Its scenic seaside location with views of Knocknarea and Benbulben, plus its charming thatched roof, make it one of Ireland’s most picturesque pubs. A cozy pub with fresh sea breezes, great food (including seafood), and spectacular views. Perfect for a relaxing pint or meal by the sea.
- The Harp Tavern (Rosses Point): In Rosses Point, this pub is known for its excellent service, delicious food, and proximity to Sligo’s coastal attractions. Its reputation for quality pub grub and a welcoming atmosphere for weary travelers make it a standout near Rosses Point. A friendly pub with tasty meals, good drinks, and a scenic coastal vibe. Ideal for those exploring Sligo’s Wild Atlantic Way.
- Fiddlers Creek (Sligo Town): On Rockwood Parade, this sports bar offers fine food, live music, DJs, and big screens for major sporting events. Its prime location by the Garavogue River and versatile offerings (food, music, sports) make it a popular spot for diverse crowds. A lively pub with great food, craft beers, and a sporty atmosphere. Perfect for sports fans or groups seeking entertainment.
- The Swagman Bar (Sligo Town): On Wine St, this pub is a craft beer haven with a relaxed atmosphere and occasional live music. Its excellent selection of craft beers and friendly, laid-back vibe make it a top choice for beer enthusiasts. A modern pub with a great beer selection, good craic, and a welcoming setting. Ideal for craft beer lovers or a casual night out.
- Lillies Cocktail Bar (Sligo Town): On Bridge St, this trendy pub offers signature cocktails, live music seven nights a week, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Its hip atmosphere and focus on mixed drinks over pints make it a unique nightlife spot in Sligo. A lively, modern bar with creative cocktails, live music, and a trendy vibe. Perfect for those seeking a night of dancing or cocktails.
- Brennan’s Pub (Sligo Town): On Teeling St, this traditional pub, featured in Sally Rooney’s Normal People, offers a cozy setting and quality drinks. Its literary fame from Normal People and classic Irish atmosphere make it a notable stop for fans and visitors. A quaint pub with great pints, a warm welcome, and a literary connection. Ideal for a relaxed drink or a nod to pop culture.
- The Village Inn (Tourlestrane, Ballymote): On Main St, Tourlestrane, this traditional pub offers a cozy setting with quality drinks and a community vibe. Its role as a social hub in rural Sligo and friendly atmosphere make it a gem for those exploring beyond Sligo town. A classic Irish pub with good beer, friendly locals, and a relaxed setting. Perfect for a quiet pint in a village atmosphere.
- Kielty’s Rock Bar (Ballymote): On O’Connell St, Ballymote, this traditional pub in Rock House offers a warm welcome and quality drinks. Its reputation for friendly service and its role as a community hub in Ballymote make it a reliable rural stop. A cozy pub with great pints, a welcoming vibe, and a traditional setting. Ideal for a low-key drink in South Sligo.
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County Sligo:
Ireland’s county Sligo is renowned for its poetic heritage and coastal scenery, with the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery offering one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric sites. The Benbulben mountain provides striking hiking trails, while Strandhill’s beaches are ideal for surfing. Other attractions include the historic Lissadell House and its gardens. Sligo is Ireland’s 22nd largest county by size (1,796 square km) and seventh smallest by population (70,198). Population peaked at 180,886 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 50,275 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Sligo is Ireland’s 17th most visited tourist county with around 133,000 international visitors per year.
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