Film & TV Editor Ciara Whelan pays a visit to the Dublin pubs that embrace the festive season best.
Looking for somewhere warm to rest yourself in for the cold nights ahead? Somewhere to spend time with loved ones, have a bit of craic, and get in the festive spirit? Look no further. Whether partial or not to a pint this time of the year, these three pubs are sure to offer plenty more than just a drink this Christmas.
Originally a coach house dating back to 1610 in the Phoenix Park, The Hole in the Wall is the longest pub in Europe and at Christmas, it might just be one of the most festive too. There is hardly a surface left uncovered in this traditional building that is decked from beginning to end in lights, wreaths, tinsel and much more. A charming snug might be the perfect place to relax with friends and family this winter, or customers could choose any of the large dining tables or bar stools available to relax and enjoy each other’s company. There is something for everyone at this pub this time of year; a wide variety of drinks served behind the bar, great food from an affordable menu, and even an Instagram wall in the upstairs foyer for those looking to capture the memory for their feed.
Nestled in country roads along the River Liffey in West Dublin, The Strawberry Hall might only be accessible by car, but it is a pub that is well worth the drive. Every Winter this pub is covered in traditional decorations and transformed into a cosy Christmas cottage, with low ceilings that are lost among the technicolour tinsel and lights, and a roaring fire to keep even the coldest of hearts warm. Even when bursting with business, as it regularly is around the holidays, customers can enjoy the lively outdoor area across the road, and even a fresh pizza from the Goats Gruff food truck, which also serves coffee, sandwiches, pastries and more during the day from the neighbouring car park.
Every Winter this pub is covered in traditional decorations and transformed into a cosy Christmas cottage, with low ceilings that are lost among the technicolour tinsel and lights, and a roaring fire to keep even the coldest of hearts warm.
For an option closer to the city centre, The Ginger Man is found at the corner of Fenian Street and Cumberland Street in the heart of Dublin’s south side. This pub lives up to the festive spirit of its name, and every year it is the home of all kinds of Christmas characters; snowmen, Santa Claus, his reindeer, and many more decorate the walls and ceilings of this pub. Christmas is a state of mind for the bar staff and publicans that frequent The Ginger Man, and it is well worth a visit after a long day of busy Christmas shopping.