Ireland’s Oldest Pub – Sean’s Bar

sean's bar Ireland

Sean’s Bar situated in the heart of Ireland, Athlone town, is the oldest pub in Ireland.

The bar has been in existence since 900AD and has become a famous attraction for Irish tourism.

Sean’s bar is at the main street in Athlone town. The white pillars and a clear sign ensure you won’t miss this fantastic watering hole.

As you push open the doors to this historic bar, you’re met with kindness, historic scenery and depending on the time of day some fantastic traditional music to make your Irish experience unforgettable.

After you’re done with your site seeing the Banks of the River Shannon and the 12th Century Norman Castle you’ll want to quench your thirst with a mighty fine pint of Guinness.

Sean’s Bar has you covered. The Guinness is renowned as one of the best in Ireland due to the ever-flowing cold stout taps.

Sean’s Irish Whiskey

With a famous name comes a renowned whiskey. Sean’s bar has brought about its own whiskey that has featured in Whiskey live Dublin is no a verified member of the Green Sustainability programme and has received a certificate from Bord Bia themselves.

© Sean’s Bar

There’s a strong possibility you’ll be seeing this bottle of Specially Blended Irish Whiskey on selves worldwide in the future.

Music at Sean’s Bar

If you’re planning on a trip to Athlone to check out Sean’s we’d advise you look at the music lineup before you go. They have full details of that information on their website.

Traditional music is usually on the cards but an ole DJ is brought in, and you’ll find dancing and craic to be had by all.

Events at the Oldest Pub in Ireland

The Boat House Bar is a more modern area to Sean’s Bar where you can rent out for parties and private funtions.

© Sean’s Bar

If there’s a lot of people on a tour it’s a great way to have a little section for yourselves.

The History of Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s Oldest Pub

The River Shannon had a great ford across it’s banks known as the Ford of Great Antiquity, and it was here a local Inn established by Luain Mac Luighdeach. It was named ‘Ath Mor’ which translated to ‘The Great Ford’.

It is now known as Sean’s Bar. The Inn predated Athlone Castle itself, and it was probably because of this Inn a settlement grew to become the town of Athlone.

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Ath Mor wasn’t the only previous name for Sean’s Bar. It was also known as ‘The Three Blackamoor Heads’ who had a famous inn keeper named Mark Begg.

You can find out more about Mark Begg and his story at Sean’s Bar’s website.

Sean’s Bar Memorabilia

If like me you’d like to some memorabilia of your visit to Sean’s Bar there’s no problem attaining some merchandise.

oldest bar in ireland memorabilia
© Sean’s Bar

You can purchase some items from the Sean’s Bar online store, they have a selection of hats, t-shirts and hoodies.

If you know someone travelling to Ireland and Sean’s bar is on their to-do list, you can even purchase a gift certificate to treat them to a few pints when they arrive.

Slán go fóill,

Cian