12 Pubs in the west of Ireland with traditional Irish music sessions

Vibrant traditional Irish music scene

The west of Ireland is renowned for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene, and there is a plethora of excellent pubs where you can experience authentic trad sessions. Here are some of the best pubs in the west of Ireland for traditional Irish music.

County Mayo:

1. Matt Molloy’s, Westport, Co Mayo

Located in Westport, County Mayo, Matt Molloy’s is a renowned pub owned by the flautist of The Chieftains, Matt Molloy himself. This pub is a must-visit for traditional music enthusiasts, as it hosts regular sessions and attracts top-class musicians.

2. Rouse’s Bar, Ballina, Co Mayo

Rouse’s Bar which is located on Pearse Street, in the heart of Ballina town, is an old world family run bar since 1947. The trad sessions in Rouse’s Bar are legendary. The cosy setting makes a trad session in this bar a must do for anyone visiting Ballina. Trad Sessions are held every Saturday night from 10pm.

Photo courtesy of Kev L Smith / Doolin Tourism

County Clare:

3. Gus O’Connor’s Pub, Doolin, Co Clare

Located in Doolin, County Clare, Gus O’Connor’s is a legendary pub famous for its traditional music sessions. It attracts talented local musicians and often hosts impromptu sessions that can go on late into the night.

4. McDermott’s Pub, Doolin, Co Clare

Found in Doolin, County Clare, McDermott’s is another excellent pub known for its lively traditional music sessions. You can enjoy great tunes while savouring a pint of Guinness in a welcoming and authentic setting.

Photo © Tourism Ireland

County Galway:

5. Tigh Chóilí, Galway City

Tigh Chóilí is a pub that showcases traditional Irish music every night. Musicians gather here to play lively jigs and reels, creating an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere in the heart of Galway city.

6. Tigh Neachtain, Galway City

Situated in Galway City, Tigh Neachtain is a cosy pub with a traditional atmosphere. It frequently hosts live music sessions, including traditional Irish music, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

7. The Crane Bar, Galway City

This iconic pub in Galway City has a long-standing tradition of promoting traditional Irish music. It hosts regular sessions where you can listen to talented musicians and even join in if you play an instrument or sing.

Photo source: Hargadons Pub via Facebook

County Sligo:

8. Hargadons, Sligo Town

Hargadons, situated on O’Connell Street, is a popular pub known for its lively traditional music sessions. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere and often hosts talented local musicians. The pub also offers a great selection of craft beers and whiskeys.

9. Shoot the Crows, Sligo Town 

Shoot the Crows, located on Grattan Street, is a cosy pub that attracts both locals and visitors with its authentic Irish music sessions. The pub has a relaxed and intimate setting, perfect for enjoying traditional tunes while sipping on your favourite drink.

County Roscommon:

10. Beár An Ráille, Roscommon Town

Also known as The Railway Bar, Beár An Ráille is situated in Abbeytown right around the corner from Roscommon Train Station. It is a family run pub and hosts live trad sessions twice a month on the second and fourth Thursday of the month. 

11. PJ’s Bar & Lounge, Castlecoote, Co Roscommon

PJ’s is a traditional Irish pub that provides live music and entertainment in its home of Castlecoote, Co Roscommon. PJ’s is known to have one of the longest running Irish Music sessions every Tuesday night.

Photo source: Cryan’s Teach Ceoil Facebook

County Leitrim:

12. Cryan’s Teach Ceoil, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim

Attending a traditional Irish music session and Bluegrass gig in Cryan’s Old Bar – which is known as the “Matt Molloys” of Carrick-on-Shannon – is a must for any visitor to the town of Carrick-on-Shannon. The pub is also known for spontaneous sessions, depending on who might walk through the door!

Remember that traditional Irish music sessions can be spontaneous, and it’s always a good idea to check with the pub in advance or ask the locals for the most up-to-date information on music sessions. Enjoy your time exploring the west of Ireland and its incredible musical heritage!

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