From the authentic to the outright ridiculous, we outline ten of the best Irish pubs in Liverpool in 2024.
It’s no secret that the Irish diaspora reaches far across the world, to far-flung lands like the United States and Australia, and closer to home in the likes of London.
As one of the world’s busiest and historically significant ports, Liverpool was the destination of many who emigrated. Some even stayed, with many now labelling the northern English city the 33rd county of Ireland.
Wherever Irish people end up, the Irish pub – the most ubiquitous of drinking establishments – will surely follow. Thankfully, when they serve genuine Irish communities, they are often pretty decent – unlike those on the Costa del Sol and the like.
So, whether you like to sup a quiet pint in a warm environment or party with students, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the ten best Irish pubs in Liverpool in 2024.
10. Shenanigans – roast dinners and cocktail deals
You can’t miss Shenanigans, what with its loud green exterior and giant mural.
Drinks at Shenanigans range from Irish classics to international favourites and everything in between. Fancy something sweeter? Check out their two-for-£12 cocktail offer.
Shenanigans also offers home comforts on an extensive dinner and lunch menu, including a pretty decent roast every Sunday from 12 pm.
Address: 77 Tithebarn St, Liverpool L2 2EN
9. The Celtic Corner – where the party doesn’t stop
If late-night partying is what you’re after, get yourself to the Celtic Corner on Ranelagh Street. With live music and cheap drinks, this Irish bar is always lively on the weekends. Definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Address: 43 Ranelagh St, Liverpool L1 1JR
8. Flanagan’s Apple – something for everyone
Found on the famous Mathew Street, Flanagan’s Apple proudly describes its Guinness as “the best in town” – we’ll let you be the judge, though.
Whether you want to watch the football, enjoy live music, or simply have a pint and a bite, there’s something for everyone across the three floors at Flanagan’s Apple, Liverpool’s oldest Irish bar.
Address: 18 Mathew St, Liverpool L2 6RE
7. Lanigans – Irish roots
Lanigans is overseen by the owners of a County Kilkenny bar of the same name, giving it an extra level of authenticity. With the biggest screen in the city, Lanigans is the place to go for live sport.
Fancy some music? You can hear live acts every night of the week in Lanigans, and DJs keep the party going into the small hours on the weekend. This is certainly one of the best Irish pubs in Liverpool.
Address: 33-35 Ranelagh St, Liverpool L1 1JP
6. Pogue Mahone – an institution
Pogue Mahone – or simply Pogue’s to locals – is something of an institution in Liverpool’s Irish bar scene. An open fire makes this the place to go to warm up on a cold winter’s night when you’ll be met with open arms and a pint of Guinness.
Address: 77 Seel St, Liverpool L1 4BB
5. McCooley’s – the heart of the party
Much like the Celtic Corner, McCooley’s on Concert Square is not for the faint of heart.
This area of Liverpool is always lively, with McCooley’s at the heart of the party. If you’re heading to McCooley’s for a pint, be prepared to cut some shapes.
Address: 46-50 Wood St, Liverpool L1 4AQ
4. Molly Malones – great for live music
Live music is a common theme in all Liverpool bars, Irish or otherwise, and Molly Malones is no exception. Tuesday night is trad night, an open-mic night celebrating traditional Irish music.
Address: 25-27 Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE
3. The Liffey – a proper boozer
For those who like a pint in more subdued surroundings, you can’t go wrong with the Liffey. With horse racing on the TV and pints as cheap as they are cold, the Liffey is an old-school, working-class drinking establishment.
That said, you can still get behind the mic and butcher your favourite songs at karaoke!
Address: 43 Renshaw St, Liverpool L1 2SF
2. Fitzgerald’s – one of the best Irish pubs in Liverpool
Fitzgerald’s is owned by the same team that owns Lanigans, so you know you’re getting a pretty authentic experience. One of the best Irish pubs in Liverpool, you can expect live music and live sport on the telly.
Open every evening until 4 am, there’s no excuse not to go to Fitzgerald’s any day of the week.
Address: 25-27 Slater St, Liverpool L1 4BW
1. Peter Kavanagh’s – another old-school Liverpool pub
You’ll come to Peter Kavanagh’s for the selection of ales, but you’ll stay for the eclectic décor dating back to 1929 and comprising Charles Dickens-inspired artwork by Eric Robinson and stained glass made by William English.
Address: 2-6 Egerton St, Liverpool L8 7LY
KEEP READING: The top 10 best Irish pubs in Manchester in 2024
