Best Rural Pubs - Dublin

The Blue Light

Ask any biker and they’ll tell you there’s nowt better than tripping out to The Blue Light on a summer’s eve. But you don’t need to be a biker to visit; they’re still a pretty welcoming bunch. Just above Stepaside, hidden up in the mountains, this gem of a bar has one of the best views of Dublin, probably the best if the neighbours would be so kind to chop down their obstructing trees. Regardless, the bar staff are sound, the locals are friendly, the picnic benches are well placed, there’s crisps aplenty, live music and chilled cider. Just add one sunset.

The Blue Light, Barnacullia, Sandyford, Co. Dublin, 2954682

Man O ’War

We only discovered this thatched time warp a few years ago at Sibín festival, which usually kicks off the summer silly season at the beginning of May. That’s pretty late considering the deeds go back 415 years, safe to say there’s been a fair few missed opportunities. Situated just outside Balbriggan, this is a genuine old pub that gimmicky Oirish bars the world over have tried to imitate. It is a bit far out so they organise discounted bus shuttles for groups from far a field, and a local courtesy bus. Also we’ve found the local pool sharks only too happy to challenge you to a game but heed our warning; keep bets minimal, you haven’t a chance of winning.

Man O' War Pub & Restaurant, Courtlough, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, 841 5528, manowar.ie

McEvoy’s

A pint and a paddle, what more could you want? Just 2km from Celbridge, Kildare types have tried to claim this one as their own, but we’ve been reliably informed from an estate agent that the area is covered under the South Dublin Development Plan. And estate agents never lie. Nestled right up beside the Grand Canal, this is the perfect spot to while away a sunny afternoon. By white-washed walls and well kept flowers you can observe canal activities like boating, fishing and boozing. If you can boat it out - great, but if not the newly expanded Hazelhatch Celbridge train station is your best bet.

McEvoy’s, Hazelhatch, Newcastle, Co. Dublin, 6288283