Clifden's nightlife thrives within its traditional pubs, offering visitors a warm welcome, genuine Irish music, and a chance to experience local culture.
Entertainment and Music:
Clifden offers a vibrant music and entertainment scene, predominantly rooted in traditional Irish culture within its welcoming pubs.
Visitors can experience live traditional Irish music nightly in many of Clifden's pubs, fostering a lively and authentic atmosphere. Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar, frequently recognized as a top traditional bar, consistently hosts live sessions seven nights a week. Guy's Bar also offers engaging traditional Irish music, often alongside its dining experience in a cozy setting. For a broader range of performances including music, drama, and comedy, the Clifden Station House Theatre provides a multi-purpose venue.
1. Lowry's Music & Whiskey Bar
Type: Traditional Irish Pub, Live Music Venue
Stepping into Lowry's, one immediately feels the authentic charm of a true Irish pub, renowned as the 'home of Irish music in Clifden'. Live traditional Irish music fills the air almost every night during the season, inviting both locals and visitors to soak in the lively atmosphere. The bar also prides itself on offering Connemara's largest selection of premium whiskey and gin, making it an excellent spot for connoisseurs. While primarily a drinking venue, simple yet satisfying pub food like toasted sandwiches is available.
Getting There: Located centrally on Market Street, it is within easy walking distance from anywhere in Clifden's main area.
2. Guy's Bar
Type: Gastropub, Live Music Venue
Guy's Bar offers a charming and welcoming ambiance, blending the feel of a traditional pub with a gastropub dining experience. It is known for its cozy snugs and frequently hosts live music sessions, particularly popular fireside music nights in the winter. The menu features fresh, local ingredients, with a focus on seafood and artisanal pizzas, making it suitable for both a meal and drinks.
Getting There: Situated on Main Street, Guy's Bar is conveniently located in the heart of Clifden, easily accessible on foot.
3. EJ King's Bar & Restaurant
Type: Historic Irish Pub, Seafood Restaurant, Live Music Venue
EJ King's holds a prominent spot on the corner of Clifden's Main Street and Market Square, having been a cornerstone of the town for over a century. The atmosphere is relaxed, inviting guests to enjoy a drink in the bar or a meal in the upstairs restaurant. Live traditional Irish music is a regular feature, especially during the summer months. The venue is internationally recognized for its fresh seafood, including oysters, chowder, and fish pie.
Getting There: Found at the central Market Square, EJ King's is readily reachable by walking from any central Clifden location.
4. Griffin's Bar
Type: Traditional Irish Pub, Live Music Venue
As Clifden's oldest continuously family-owned pub, Griffin's Bar offers a truly traditional Irish experience, reputedly serving one of the finest pints of Guinness in town. The pub is a hub for live entertainment, featuring a diverse range of music from traditional Irish to country and rock. Guests can enjoy homemade food and the vibrant atmosphere. It also boasts a large heated beer garden, complete with a big-screen TV, suitable for all seasons.
Getting There: Located on Main Street, Griffin's Bar is centrally positioned and easily accessible on foot from around Clifden town.
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