Family Friendly Pubs in Bray

The Wild Goose in Bray isn't just another Irish pub - it's the kind of place where the bartender remembers your name even if you've only been there once, and where the aroma of perfectly seared steaks mingles with the sound of live music and hearty laughter. Nestled in the heart of this charming coastal town, it's where locals and tourists alike find themselves swapping stories over pints of perfectly poured Guinness and plates of comfort food that would make your grandmother jealous. Let's talk about what really makes this place tick. The Wild Goose's charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend traditional Irish pub culture with contemporary dining excellence. The moment you walk in, you're greeted by warm wooden interiors that have absorbed decades of good times and great conversations. There's something magical about how they've managed to maintain that authentic pub atmosphere while elevating the dining experience to something special. It's not pretentious - far from it - but it's clear they take immense pride in getting the details right. The food here tells its own story. Their 5oz steak has achieved near-legendary status among regulars, and for good reason - it's cooked to perfection every single time, accompanied by sides that are far from an afterthought. The portions are generous without being overwhelming, striking that sweet spot between satisfying and sensible. What's particularly refreshing is their approach to the children's menu - not just an afterthought of chicken nuggets, but proper meals scaled down for smaller appetites, complete with a free ice cream that never fails to bring smiles to little faces. During evening service, the atmosphere transforms like a chameleon. The lighting dims to that perfect golden hue that makes everyone look like they're starring in their own movie, and the buzz of conversation creates an energy that's infectious. Live music sessions add another layer to the experience, with local musicians creating soundtracks for memorable nights. Whether you're tucked into a cozy corner booth or perched at the bar, you'll find yourself swaying to the rhythm of both traditional Irish tunes and contemporary hits. The drink selection deserves its own standing ovation. From perfectly poured pints to an impressive wine list that won't break the bank, they've got all bases covered. But it's their cocktail game that might surprise you - the bartenders know their craft, mixing classics and house specialties with equal expertise. And for the designated drivers or those taking a break from the hard stuff, they've got you covered too - including those elusive 400ml cans of Cidona that are apparently harder to find than a four-leaf clover these days. Service here strikes that perfect balance between attentive and relaxed. The staff operates with a kind of choreographed efficiency that never feels rushed or mechanical. They're genuine folks who seem to actually enjoy what they do, ready with recommendations or a bit of banter, whichever you prefer. And if you're in a hurry? They'll move heaven and earth to accommodate you without making other diners feel shortchanged. What really sets The Wild Goose apart is its versatility. It works just as well for a quick business lunch as it does for a family celebration or a romantic dinner for two. The reasonable prices mean you can make it your regular haunt without your wallet crying uncle, while the quality of food and service makes it special enough for those milestone moments. They've mastered that elusive sweet spot between casual and special occasion dining. The Wild Goose has become more than just a pub or restaurant - it's become part of Bray's social fabric. It's where first dates turn into engagements, where work meetings evolve into friendships, and where tourists become regulars during their stay. In a world of increasingly homogenized dining experiences, this place maintains its individual character while delivering consistently excellent food and service. Here's my advice: make a booking (especially for weekend evenings - this place fills up faster than a pint glass during happy hour), arrive hungry, and let yourself be swept up in the genuine warmth and hospitality that flows as freely as the drinks. Whether you're a local or just passing through Bray, The Wild Goose offers that rare combination of quality, atmosphere, and value that makes it worth returning to again and again. Trust me, you'll be planning your next visit before you've finished your first meal.

Tucked away in the heart of County Wicklow, The Enniskerry Inn near Bray stands as a testament to Irish hospitality that manages to feel both timeless and refreshingly current. Like stumbling upon a secret chapter in your favorite book, this charming establishment serves up something far more intriguing than your typical country pub experience. You might think you know what to expect from an Irish inn – perhaps visions of dark wood panels and old-timers nursing pints of Guinness by a crackling fire. While The Enniskerry Inn certainly delivers on these cozy classics, it's the unexpected touches that make this place a standout in Bray's dining and accommodation scene. The moment you step through the door, you're greeted by that rare alchemy of traditional Irish charm and contemporary comfort that so many places attempt but few achieve. Let's talk about the atmosphere because it's here where The Enniskerry Inn really flexes its muscles. The main dining area strikes that perfect balance between rustic and refined – imagine if your sophisticated aunt decided to renovate a centuries-old cottage but had the good sense to keep all the best bits. The stone walls tell stories of countless conversations, while modern lighting casts a warm glow that makes everyone look like they're starring in their own Irish romance movie. The food deserves its own paragraph, or several. The kitchen team here has mastered what I like to call "elevated pub classics" – familiar favorites that have been given just enough of a gourmet twist to make them interesting without becoming pretentious. Their burger, a frequent star of visitor reviews, comes perfectly cooked and adorned with locally-sourced toppings that would make any food photographer weak at the knees. And while we're on the subject of local, the Wicklow Wolf beer on tap is a master stroke – nothing pairs better with the surrounding mountains than a craft brew born in their shadow. Speaking of those mountains – the location is nothing short of spectacular. The Enniskerry Inn serves as the perfect base camp for adventurers tackling the Wicklow Way, or for those who simply want to pretend they might tackle it someday while actually enjoying a leisurely lunch. The outdoor seating area offers views that make you understand why Ireland is called the Emerald Isle, and on a sunny day (yes, they do exist in Ireland), it's pure magic. For those staying overnight, the rooms offer a comfortable retreat that strikes a careful balance between modern amenities and traditional charm. The beds are the kind that make you want to ignore your hiking plans and sleep in, while the windows frame views that make you glad you didn't. It's worth noting that the renovation work has been done with a thoughtful touch – you'll find USB ports where you need them without feeling like you're sleeping in a tech hub. The staff deserve special mention, as they're the real heart of The Enniskerry Inn. Led by their manager Matteo, whose presence seems to be everywhere yet never intrusive, the team has mastered the art of making you feel like a regular even on your first visit. They're quick with a recommendation, generous with local knowledge, and seem to have an sixth sense for when you need a top-up of your drink. What really sets The Enniskerry Inn apart from other establishments in Bray is its ability to be multiple things to multiple people without losing its identity. It's a cozy pub for locals, a welcome rest stop for hikers, a romantic dinner spot for couples, and a comfortable bed for weary travelers – often all at the same time. The place manages this juggling act with the kind of effortless grace that only comes from exceptional management and genuine care for the guest experience. Let me give you a crucial piece of advice – if you're planning to dine here (and you should), booking ahead is wise, especially for weekend evenings. The secret of The Enniskerry Inn isn't so secret anymore, and the tables fill up faster than a pint glass during happy hour. Pop by the Enniskerry Inn on your next trip to Bray – whether you're staying for a night or just dropping in for a meal, you'll find yourself planning your return visit before you've even finished your first drink. Trust me, your future self will thank you for discovering this gem in the Wicklow countryside.

Let me tell you about the hidden gem that is Mc's & Harvey in Bray - a place where traditional Irish pub culture gets a sophisticated makeover without losing its soul. Nestled in the heart of this charming coastal town, this establishment has mastered the delicate art of being both a proper pub and a genuine culinary destination. It's the kind of spot where you might pop in for a quick pint and find yourself staying for a three-course meal that makes you forget all about your original plans. The moment you step into Mc's & Harvey Bray, you're greeted by that unmistakable buzz of a well-loved local haunt. The warm wood panels and soft lighting create an atmosphere that somehow manages to be both cozy enough for a romantic dinner and lively enough for a night out with friends. It's like someone took the best bits of a traditional Irish pub, mixed them with a contemporary restaurant, and sprinkled just the right amount of local charm on top. What truly sets Mc's & Harvey apart from other Bray establishments is their ability to walk the line between casual and refined. The menu reads like a love letter to Irish cuisine, but with clever modern twists that keep things interesting. Their duck in orange sauce has become somewhat legendary among locals - tender enough to cut with a spoon and served with a sauce that's worth soaking up every last drop. The bangers and mash? Well, let's just say it's the kind of comfort food that makes you want to hug the chef. The bar setup deserves special mention - it's a beautiful sight to behold, with an impressive array of spirits gleaming behind the counter and local craft beers on tap. The bartenders have that perfect mix of professional expertise and friendly banter, making everyone feel like a regular, even on their first visit. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just in for a perfectly pulled pint, you'll find your poison of choice served with a smile and often with a side of local gossip (if you're lucky). Speaking of atmosphere, there's something magical about how the venue transforms throughout the day. Morning light streams through the windows as early birds tuck into full Irish breakfasts, while lunch brings a bustling crowd of locals and tourists alike, all drawn by the reasonable prices and generous portions. Come evening, the lighting dims, the music picks up just enough to create ambiance without drowning out conversation, and the whole place takes on a cozy, intimate feel that makes you want to linger over your dessert. The food deserves its own paragraph of praise. From the creamy seafood chowder (though yes, sometimes the bread could be fresher) to the hearty main courses, everything is prepared with obvious care and attention to detail. The kitchen manages to elevate traditional pub fare without venturing into pretentious territory - and at prices that won't make your wallet weep. Vegetarian options are plentiful and thoughtfully prepared, not just afterthoughts on the menu. For families, Mc's & Harvey in Bray is a godsend. The children's menu offers proper meals rather than the usual nugget-and-chip suspects, and the staff have that magical ability to make families feel welcome without annoying other diners. The spacious function room has hosted everything from christenings to birthday bashes, comfortably fitting up to 100 people while maintaining that intimate feel. The service here deserves special mention - it's attentive without being intrusive, professional without being stuffy. Staff members seem genuinely invested in ensuring you have a good time, whether you're in for a quick lunch or settling in for a special occasion dinner. They're happy to make recommendations and accommodate special requests without fuss. For anyone visiting Bray, or locals looking for their new favorite spot, Mc's & Harvey should be high on your list. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're in on a secret, even though its reputation precedes it. Pop in for lunch, book a table for dinner, or just swing by for a pint - whatever you choose, you'll likely find yourself planning your next visit before you've even finished your first. Trust me, whether you're a foodie, a casual diner, or just in search of good craic, this place delivers on all fronts.

Standing proudly at the edge of where land meets sea in Bray, The Strand Hotel Former Home Of Oscar Wilde isn't just another seaside accommodation - it's where literary history whispers through the corridors and Victorian charm meets modern Irish hospitality. As waves crash against the shoreline, you can't help but wonder if the views that inspired one of Ireland's most notorious writers might spark your own moment of genius. Let's be honest - plenty of hotels claim some tenuous connection to famous figures, but this isn't one of those "Washington slept here once" situations. The Strand Hotel in Bray was actually owned by the Wilde family in the 1870s, and young Oscar himself inherited the property in 1876. The current owners have managed to preserve that literary legacy while creating something that feels both historically significant and thoroughly contemporary. It's like stepping into a living museum where you're actually allowed to touch everything - and better yet, order a pint. The rooms here tell stories of their own, each named and themed after pieces of Wilde's work. Walking through the corridor feels like browsing through a particularly comfortable library catalog. Take the Garden of Eros room - it manages to be both dramatically romantic and surprisingly cozy, much like Wilde's poetry itself. The sea-facing rooms offer views that could inspire anyone to write a sonnet or two, even if your usual literary output is limited to witty tweets. When it comes to dining, The Strand Hotel in Bray pulls off something rather unexpected - it houses not one, but two distinct culinary experiences. Downstairs, you'll find yourself torn between traditional Irish pub fare and authentic Indian cuisine. Yes, you read that correctly - you can order either a perfectly prepared curry or a hearty shepherd's pie, and both will be equally impressive. The restaurant space itself feels like somewhere Oscar would approve of - elegant without being stuffy, with just the right amount of theatrical flair. The location is nothing short of perfect for those seeking to explore Bray's charms. Positioned right on the seafront promenade, you're mere steps from the beach and a short walk from the dramatic Bray Head cliffs. Morning coffee comes with a side of sea spray and sunset views, while evening drinks are accompanied by the rhythmic sound of waves - nature's own white noise machine. What really sets The Strand Hotel apart is its staff's ability to channel Wilde's famous hospitality while maintaining thoroughly modern service standards. They've mastered that delicate art of being attentive without hovering, knowledgeable without lecturing, and friendly without forcing it. It's the kind of service that makes you feel like a regular, even if it's your first visit. For those practical souls among us (though Wilde might disapprove of such pragmatism), the hotel offers all the modern necessities - comfortable beds that could tempt even the most dedicated socialite to turn in early, bathrooms that marry Victorian charm with contemporary functionality, and yes, there are even electric car charging points nearby for those who've swapped horse-drawn carriages for Teslas. The breakfast deserves its own paragraph, if not its own sonnet. Whether you're nursing a literary-inspired hangover or preparing for a day of coastal exploration, the morning spread hits all the right notes. The full Irish breakfast could fuel you through writing "The Picture of Dorian Gray," while lighter options cater to those maintaining a more modern appetite. Here's the thing about The Strand Hotel in Bray - it would be easy to rest on the laurels of its Oscar Wilde connection and coast by as a novelty hotel. Instead, it's created something rather special: a place where history feels alive rather than preserved, where luxury means comfort rather than pretense, and where every guest gets to feel a little bit like they're part of a continuing story. So, should you book a stay at The Strand Hotel? As Oscar himself might say, "To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all." This is a place for living, not just existing. Make your reservation, pack your wit (and maybe a copy of "The Importance of Being Earnest"), and prepare for a stay that even literature's greatest dandy would approve of. After all, life is far too important to be taken seriously - but this hotel? This you should take seriously indeed.