a cosy pub on a mellow Twixmas day is like nothing or nowhere else. Share your favourite pubs with us!
Perched by a crackling fire, cradling a glass, the murmur of relaxed, free-flowing conversation, cackles and catch-ups: a cosy pub on a mellow Twixmas day is like nothing or nowhere else. Patrick Hanlon and Russell Alford, aka The Gastro Gays, love these five snug spots. And we want you to tell us where you like to go for a cosy, super-relaxed post-ramble pint … A crackling fire is a plus!
1. O’Connell’s Skryne, Co Meath
For almost 20 Christmases in a row you’ve enjoyed glimpses of a snow-dappled O’Connell’s with a single light on in Guinness’ staple festive TV ad. In Skryne, Co Meath, this traditionally kept pub boasts beautiful views of the Hill of Tara in the stunning Boyne Valley. The snow may have been faked for the ad, but the brilliant black stuff here is no illusion.
2. Dick Mack’s, Dingle, Co Kerry
When the temperatures dip and you’re stopping in somewhere for respite from the cold, there’s no better pub for a whiskey or hot toddy than Dick Mack’s. Trace your gaze across the enviable collection of uisce beatha displayed on the Victorian bar on Dingle’s Green Street, or maybe take a suggestion from fourth-generation owner and whiskey whisperer Finn MacDonnell. Dating back to 1899, much of Dick Mack’s’ front bar (and leather workshop) remains unchanged to this day.
3. Malzards, Stonyford, Co Kilkenny
Malzards is worth the short detour outside of Kilkenny for the welcome from owner Fred Malzard alone. A thriving village pub in Stonyford, dating right back to 1789, its cosy front bar is adorned with historical memorabilia and decorated with heritage hurling items, while the stove is rarely cold. Complete with “the messages” behind the bar – everything from Knorr Aromat and Alka Seltzer to porridge oats and peanuts – the pints are among the finest you’ll find.
4. Flanagan’s, Brickens, Co Mayo
Gastropub Flanagan’s, five miles from Claremorris, was established in 1965 and a was a community focal point from the start, and once a pub, grocery and hardware to boot. A decade ago, a transformative renovation kept all the charm but elevated the offering from pub to gastropub and since then the menu proudly reads like a who’s who of local artisan producers. The epitome of a homely, warm and welcoming rural country pub with food.
5. The Duke of York, Belfast, Co Antrim
When in Belfast, a pint in The Duke of York, is a must. Set on the cobbled Commercial Court with its neon overhead umbrellas and abundant hanging baskets, this street may well be the belle of Belfast city. Inside the pub is all heritage and culture, decorated with nostalgic nods to Ulster’s brewing past, and intimate little tables and booths.
