Located in County Cork, the coastal town of Kinsale is also a famous port and among its main industries is fishing. This town on the southwest coast of Ireland is also known all over as the ‘gourmet capital of Ireland’ especially with it’s a gourmet festival.
A town is known for great food (especially seafood) definitely has to have a number of good pubs as well, and there’s a lot of them in Kinsale. From family-run watering holes to bars based in hotels, here are some of the best pubs in Kinsale to check out.
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10 Best Pubs in Kinsale
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1. The Armada Bar, Kinsale
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The Armada Bar is managed by what most regular patrons refer to as a true ‘Irish mommy’, its Proprietor Mary Coughlan. Aside from being a pub, it is also a family-run guesthouse that’s known for its warm and welcoming ambiance.
It boasts of features that provide homey comforts such as good seating, a fireplace, cards, darts, pool table, and more. The pricing for food and drinks is quite competitive, and live music is on offer late into the evening. It pretty much has everything you could ask for in a pub so be sure to visit when you’re in Kinsale.
Opening Hours
(March-Nov ) open 12 noon to 8 pm
Contact Information
Phone: 021 477 2255
Email: info@armadabar.ie
Address: Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co.Cork,, P17 YF79
2. The Bulman
Known in Kinsale as a classic Irish pub, The Bulman definitely offers a fascinating insight into local culture and life. There’s always a steady stream pf regulars coming in, most of the locals who are always ready and willing to chat over a pint or two.
It is situated in Summercove, a picturesque village in Kinsale’s outskirts. Its idyllic location gives The Bulman a distinct character, which is probably among the reasons why it was recognized as the “Black and White Pub of the Year”.
Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday – 12:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Friday to Saturday – 12:30 PM to 12:30 AM
Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 21 4772131
Email: toddies@eircom.net
Address: Bulman Kinsale, Summercove, Kinsale, Co. Cork
3. The Folk House
A fantastic beer and whiskey selection along with its cozy, living room atmosphere are just among the many things that make The Folk House one of the nest Kinsale pubs. It has roaring open fires, wooden floors and exposed stone walls, with a comfortable vibe that easily makes it the quintessential Irish pub.
There’s live music every night, too, so this pub pretty much has everything. ‘Come for a drink, stay for the night’ might as well be The Folk House’ tagline, a definite must-visit pub if you’re in Kinsale.
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday – 4:30 PM to 12:00 AM
Saturday to Sunday – 12:30 PM to 12:30 AM
Contact Information
Phone: +353) 021 477 2382
Email: info@folkhousevenue.com or info@bacchuskinsale.com
Address: The Folk House, Guard well, Kinsale, Co.Cork,, Ireland
4. Jim Edwards
Jim Edwards has been around since 1971, definitely among those classic Irish pubs that you simply can’t say ’No’ to. This pub is known for prioritizing great customer service and connection with its patrons, as well as making sure their food is good.
The items on the menu are said to be among the best pub grub in the area, making it a definite must-visit pub in Kinsale. Be sure to try the dishes with prawns, oysters or mussels in it as they are highly recommended.
Opening Hours
Restaurant open from – 5:30 pm
Last orders – 10:00 pm
Contact Information
Phone: +353 21 4772541
Email: info@jimedwardskinsale.com
Address: Market Quay, Kinsale, Co. Cork.
5. The Huntsman Pub Kinsale
A pub with a curious name, this one lies just close to Kinsale and serves fine food along with a good selection of drinks. This pub is called The Huntsman,in the village of Belgooly and only a few kilometers from Kinsale.
The atmosphere inside the pub is relaxed and friendly, cozy and warm — definitely among the best qualities that make a pub a must-visit. Be sure to head onto The Huntsman if you’re in Kinsale. The food is made with fresh local ingredients and produce, paired with an outstanding selection of wines, spirits, beer and even cocktails.
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 21 477-0666
Email: info@thehuntsmanbelgooly.com
Address: Belgooly, Cork, Kinsale, Co. Cork, P17 F721
6. Kitty Ó Sé’s Bar and Restaurants
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Located in the heart of the town on Pearse Street is Kitty Ó Sé’s Bar and Restaurants, the ideal place to be if you’re after a place that’s typically Irish.
It all starts with the facade adorned with the pub’s name in Celtic font, then to the quaint and charming interiors, great food, all your Irish favorites in their drinks selection and live music every night.
If you’re not into the dark stuff or whiskey, be sure to try their fish and chips or clam chowder. Interact with the friendly staff or the owners who are always ready for a chat. You may be in an entirely different town, but pubs in Kinsale like Kitty Ó Sé’s make the visit extra special and warm.
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday – 1:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Contact Information
Address: 1 Pearse St, Sleveen, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland
7. The Lord Kingsale
This pub is one of the oldest establishments in Kinsale, at two hundred and fifty years. It derives its name from Kinsale’s medieval name of Kingsale and has an intriguing history.
The placed was leased from the gentry in the late 1700s, for one old penny. In 1984, the lace was bought by the Mortimers and has slowly but surely established the popular and well-loved pub that we know now.
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 12:30 AM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 21 477 2371
Email: info@lordkingsale.com
Address: The Lord Kingsale, 4 Main Street, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland.
8. Silent Banjo
Located in the heart of Kinsale on Main Street is Silent Banjo. It is known as a local hangout and probably among the best pubs to be in Kinsale. The atmosphere is warm, friendly and laidback, the staff are great and Silent Banjo is the type where w can just stay with your favorite pint even if you’re alone.
Silent Banjo, apart from what’s already been said, is known to not take advantage of long holiday weekends by offering goods at a higher price, when you visit, don’t forget to try their food. The menu is quite eclectic but all the ingredients are locally sourced and fresh.
Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday – 12:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Friday to Saturday – 12:30 PM to 12:30 AM
Sunday – 12:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 87 235 8050
Address: 1 Main Street Kinsale, Co Cork, Ireland
9. The Spaniard
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The Spaniard is housed in a century-old structure, known for its amazing history. Its quaint surroundings and interiors are among the best features of this pub.
Located not among the busy city and just on the Kinsale borders, The Spaniard boasts of an intimate, cozy interior comprised of low ceilings, wooden beams in a split level pun that’s a must-visit in Kinsale.
Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Friday to Saturday – 10:30 AM to 12:30 AM
Sunday – 12:30 PM to 11:30 PM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 (0)21-4772436
Email: info@TheSpaniard.IE
Address: The Spaniard, Kinsale, Co.Cork, Ireland
10. Hamlets
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Hamlets are known for many things, but this pub usually takes pride in its food and craft beer. With Kinsale being located close to the Wild Atlantic Way, it made itself convenient for those who might visit. Enjoy the distinctly fresh and tasty food, or sample some warm craft beer, there’s even good coffee here.
Entertainment is either live music or a DJ if you’d rather dance as midnight approaches. Be sure to check out this Kinsale pub if you’re in the area.
Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:30 AM
Sunday – 12:00 PM 12:00 AM
Contact Information
Phone: +353 21 4772209
Email: info@hamletsofkinsale.com
Address: The Glen, Kinsale, Co Cork, Ireland
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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 60 countries for the past 12 years. I also lived in 4 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia, Africa and now in Europe. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.
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Afric McGlinchey
Thursday 23rd of January 2020
You didn't mention The Greyhound! One of the oldest pubs in Ireland, and definitely one of the most characterful pubs in Kinsale. Or the Tap Tavern, which has a fantastic history and regular live music. You've mentioned some dubious pubs here, but I would agree with the Bulman, the Spaniard and Hamlets. You didn't mention the Black Pig either, very stylish. Or the White House pub and restaurant. Or the Blue Haven. All great in their own way.
Christine Rogador
Thursday 23rd of January 2020
Thanks for your feedback. We will check out list again and will take note of your recommendation as well.