Some might say it would be considered a sin to pass through Laois and not stop off and sample some of what the local watering holes have to offer. The county of Laois located in the heart of Ireland comes alive at night, to reveal some of the very best nightlife this little country has to offer.
From quaint country pubs to alternative late bars it has something for everyone’s tastes. Somehow we have managed to narrow down all that Laois has to offer to the TOP 10 pubs in this article.
10. Poole’s Tavern
There’s always something a bit mad and very likeable about a country pub. Poole’s bar is in the small village of Rosenallis, north of the county Laois. It is well known to have some great sessions particularly after the local GAA has triumphed. The regulars are always ready to have some craic and tell you a tall story or two.
9. Napper Tandy’s
Napper Tandy’s is one of those bars that offers something for everyone. In Stradbally just 11km from Portlaoise, it offers some of the best beer, food and music around. It also is a great spot for catching any kind of sports on TV. A one-stop pub for everything.
8. O’Gormans Bar
O’Gorman’s bar on the outskirts of Portlaoise has arguably one of the best carveries Laois has to offer. It’s a great place to head after a tough Saturday night out for some delicious food and maybe a sneaky Sunday session. Also, the big screens make it the place to be for any matches. Its sister pub O’Gorman’s “The Bog Road” opened recently on the other side of Portlaoise, and since opening has lived up to the high standard of the original O’Gorman’s.
7. Bob’s Bar
You will always receive a warm, and unique welcoming by the owners in Bob’s bar situated in the Heritage town of Durrow. It is a pub that is renowned for its friendly atmosphere. The evenings are filled with trad sessions where people come from far and wide to join in and play late into the night. This pub has an old world charm that is a cosy alternative to modern super pubs.
6. Funky Munky Late bar
For an alternative night out, Funky Munky is a must. With its amazing interior, to its extensive beer and gin selection, this late bar caters to everyone’s fancies. Also, the cocktail menu will blow your mind, particularly if you drink one too many. On a usual Saturday night, the electric atmosphere is filled with some cool tunes by the DJ. This is a really funky place hence the name.
5. Dowling’s Bar
Everyone is welcome in Dowling’s Bar in the town of Mountmellick. They are renowned throughout the county and beyond for their legendary pints of Guinness. On a usual Saturday night, the bar is buzzing with an eclectic mix of ages. Join in a game of pool or cards at your own peril, as the locals are both the card and pool sharks. Whilst ordering a drink there is always banter to be had with the characters lining the bar counter.
4. Flemings Bar
Flemings bar had to be included for its great music and trad sessions. Flemings can be found in the village of Ballylynan. Flemings bar is the best place to be for a good country session. It has all the usual great Irish pub ingredients including trad music, local musicians, tasty beer and a cosy atmosphere. This pub should be named Flemings “cosy” bar, as it’s glowing open fires and interconnecting rooms that after one too many you may mistake as your own sitting room.
3. Moloney’s Gaelic Bar
Located in the centre of the small town of Mountmellick, Moloney’s bar is a popular establishment among the locals. Every weekend the pub is thronged with people enjoying the live music. The drinking and singing has been going on for just over 100 years as Moloney’s celebrated their centenary in 2016. You could be lucky enough to be called up on stage to join in with a good Irish sing-song.
2. Kavanagh’s Bar
Located in the bustling county town of Portlaoise, Kavanagh’s is a must for anyone who loves some live music. With their large smoking area out the back and stage, they host well-known bands every weekend and have a comedy night. It is a great place to set the tone of what will inevitably be an epic night out.
1. Morrissey’s Pub
This list would not be complete without this pub. Located in the beautiful town of Abbeyleix, Morrisey’s pub is unlike every other pub. Its ornate interior transports you back to the days when it was a Grocery.
Dimly lit, with cosy nooks and crannies which enhances the intimate atmosphere, Morrisey’s pub are the holders of the All Ireland Best Pub Award 2017 in the Restaurant Association of Ireland’s Awards. The pub is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through.
