Ireland is known for its craic, its amazing pub culture and the love of the drink. But which parts of Ireland have the best nightlife? This article answers that question by counting down the ten best counties in Ireland for a big night out, or as some would say, A BIG SESH.
10. Sligo
A small county with a big heart and a major destination for stag and hen parties. Sligo town has lots of excellent places to go for a big night out including Shoot The Crows on Castle Street and The Garavogue Bar.
9. Kerry
Killarney and Dingle are two places with epic culture and nightlife that never disappoints. Both towns are epic for big nights out. The Kingdom also has endless traditional cosy pubs at every corner of the county. Kerry is a county for all.
8. Donegal
This county is massive with lots of amazing pubs dotted around. However, Donegal Town, Letterkenny and Bundoran are stand out towns which will never disappoint when you are looking a big night out.
7. Limerick
Limerick City is the craic capital of Ireland’s Mid-West, therefore, the county has to be on the Top 10 list. The area has a colourful medieval history, having been conquered by the Vikings in the 9th century, so the city is well equipped for your stag/hen invasion! Limerick City has a wonderful range of venues to pick from when it comes to the session, so get suited and booted!
6. Antrim
With Belfast being the biggest city in the north and the second largest city in all of Ireland, Antrim has to be included in this list. The city has been booming over the last few years and the nightlife is no different. It has great clubbing venues such as Laverys, Filthies, Thompons along with traditional pubs like Kelly’s Cellars, Belfast has something for everyone.
5. Dublin
Unsurprisingly, the Dublin has made the Top 10. As Ireland’s proud capital, Dublin is an obvious and excellent choice for big night out.
A destination full of surprises and eccentrics, the fair city will deliver a wild night of unbelievable craic.
There’s too great venues to mention so it’s not worth mentioning any specifically. Just know that if you haven’t been here for a big night out, you need to soon!
4. Cork
Welcome to Cork boy, where good times never end! Nestled in the south of Ireland, Cork is an excellent county with a big city and lots of smaller towns to go for a night out. Cork is a whirlwind of excellent pubs, clubs and bars to take your pick from; wherever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
3. Leitrim
Don’t let the beautiful scenery fool you, Leitrim is a cracking night out mainly thanks to Carrick-on-Shannon which is well on its way to becoming the Magaluf of the West. Situated in the heart of lovely Leitrim, Carrick-on-Shannon has long held a reputation as a Stag/Hen mecca. Infamous for its bustling club and pub scene.
2. Kilkenny
Got a big night out to organise, or maybe even a stag/hen do? Fear not, Kilkenny has you covered. As a medieval city, Kilkenny has been hosting elegant soirees since the dark ages. It’s a city that prides itself as a historical hub, with lots of fascinating, fun activities to do during your stag/hen weekend. Walk around the Medieval Mile and drink in the rich history of Kilkenny as you explore the city. Kilkenny also has a lively, engaging night-life with plenty of locations for your party to sip on some whiskey and have a fantastic time.
1. Galway
Galway is the cultural heartland of Ireland so it is no surprise this county is the best place for a night out. Take a stroll down Galway City’s cobbled streets and enjoy live music at every turn, attend a good aul trad session, enjoy some craft beer or take in the views in Connemara.
At night, you can look forward to having some serious craic as Galway’s renowned night-life scene is vibrant, colourful and chocker-blocked with choice.
