Good For Groups Pubs in Bray

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.

McGettigan's in Bray stands as a testament to Ireland's evolving pub culture, where traditional hospitality meets contemporary dining expectations. Nestled in this seaside town just south of Dublin, this establishment has managed to strike a delicate balance between the time-honored Irish pub tradition and the demands of modern social dining. The venue's presence in Bray reflects the town's transformation from a Victorian seaside resort to a vibrant suburban hub. Like many Irish pubs, McGettigan's serves as more than just a drinking establishment - it's a community cornerstone where the boundaries between pub, restaurant, and social club blur into something distinctly Irish yet contemporarily relevant. Walking into McGettigan's Bray, visitors immediately sense the thoughtful fusion of traditional pub aesthetics with modern amenities. The rustic elements pay homage to classic Irish pub design, while multiple flatscreen TVs broadcasting sports create a contemporary social atmosphere. This juxtaposition might seem contradictory at first glance, but it perfectly encapsulates the modern Irish pub's evolution - respecting tradition while embracing change. The culinary offering at McGettigan's reflects a gastropub sensibility that has transformed Irish pub dining over the past decade. Moving beyond basic pub fare, the kitchen demonstrates a commitment to quality that has earned praise from locals and visitors alike. The menu strikes an accessible price point that positions it as a regular dining option rather than a special occasion destination, though the quality often exceeds expectations for standard pub fare. Sport plays a central role in McGettigan's identity, with multiple screens making it a premier destination for match days. Yet unlike many sports bars that sacrifice atmosphere for screen real estate, McGettigan's maintains its welcoming ambiance. The background music adds another layer to the venue's personality, creating an environment that transitions seamlessly from casual lunch spot to evening social hub. The service style at McGettigan's Bray embodies the informal warmth that Irish pubs are famous for, with staff who manage to be both professional and personable. Whether you're dropping in for a quick pint or settling in for a family meal, there's a noticeable emphasis on making everyone feel welcome - a hallmark of traditional Irish hospitality that hasn't been lost in modernization. Live music events add another dimension to McGettigan's cultural offering, continuing the Irish pub tradition of serving as a venue for local entertainment. These performances transform the space into something more than a dining establishment, creating those quintessential Irish moments where food, drink, music, and community converge. The venue's broad appeal is evident in its diverse clientele. During lunch, you might find business people taking advantage of the quality food offering, while evenings bring a mix of families dining, friends meeting for drinks, and sports enthusiasts gathering for matches. The inclusion of a children's menu speaks to its family-friendly attitude, though the atmosphere remains decidedly grown-up. McGettigan's consideration for various dining preferences reflects contemporary expectations. From hearty traditional dishes to lighter options, the menu caters to changing tastes while maintaining its pub identity. The presence of both traditional pub beverages and contemporary cocktails similarly demonstrates this adaptive approach to modern preferences. For visitors to Bray, McGettigan's offers an authentic slice of contemporary Irish pub culture. Its location makes it an ideal stop after a walk on the famous Bray promenade or before an evening at nearby entertainment venues. The paid street parking nearby makes it accessible, while its proximity to public transport links adds to its convenience as a meeting point. To experience McGettigan's in Bray is to participate in the ongoing story of Irish pub culture - where tradition and innovation coexist, and where community remains at the heart of the enterprise. Whether you're seeking a proper pint, a quality meal, or simply a place to feel part of the local scene, McGettigan's offers an experience that honors the past while firmly facing forward. Stop by not just for the food and drink, but to be part of a living tradition that continues to evolve while maintaining its essential Irish soul.

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.

Just what Bray needed - another pub with delusions of grandeur. The Goldsmiths Pub sits there on the high street, all self-assured like it's been serving pints since St. Patrick was dealing with snakes. I'll admit, I walked in with my critic's notebook and a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, how many "authentic Irish pubs" can one town sustain before we all drown in mediocre Guinness and manufactured craic? But damn it if this place didn't start working its magic on me within the first fifteen minutes. Here's the thing about Goldsmiths Pub in Bray - it doesn't try too hard, which is precisely why it succeeds. The worn wooden bar top tells stories of countless elbows and spilled pints. The regulars, who I fully expected to give me the tourist death stare, barely glanced up from their conversations when I walked in. There's something refreshingly honest about a place that doesn't feel the need to plaster its walls with mass-produced "Irish" memorabilia or blast "Danny Boy" on repeat. The pour on the Guinness? I hate to say it, but it's proper. The kind of proper that makes you wonder if Arthur himself is hiding in the cellar, personally supervising each pint. I watched the barman execute the two-part pour with the solemnity of a surgeon performing a delicate operation. The resulting pint was so photogenic it could have its own Instagram account, though thankfully this isn't the kind of place where people spend more time photographing their drinks than consuming them. The karaoke nights - usually my personal vision of hell - somehow manage to strike that elusive balance between entertainment and endurance test. Maybe it's because the regulars actually can carry a tune, or perhaps it's because everyone's just the right level of lubricated to care enough but not too much. Either way, I found myself staying far longer than my journalistic duties required, and may or may not have put my name down for a questionable rendition of "Sweet Caroline." Let's talk about the staff because they're the real surprise here. In an age where genuine hospitality often feels as rare as a reasonable housing price in Dublin, the crew at Goldsmiths Pub in Bray somehow manages to make everyone feel like they've just walked into their local, even if they're fresh off the DART from the city. They remember your drink, your name, and probably your life story by the end of the night - not because it's in some corporate training manual, but because they actually seem to give a damn. The amenities are exactly what you'd expect from a proper Irish pub - dart board that's seen better days but still draws a crowd, pool table that's mostly level (which is more than you can say for some of the players after a few pints), and enough screens to catch whatever match you're interested in without turning the place into a sports bar. The sound system manages to handle both the weekend karaoke warriors and the occasional live music without making your ears bleed - a technological miracle if you ask me. As for the prices - well, you're not going to need a second mortgage, but it's not exactly student budget territory either. However, considering the quality of the pour and the fact that you're getting an actual experience rather than just a drink, I'd say the value proposition holds up. Just don't expect any fancy cocktail menu with drinks named after James Joyce characters - this is a place that knows what it is and sticks to it. Look, I'm not saying Goldsmiths Pub is going to revolutionize the Irish pub scene or make it onto any "must-visit" lists in glossy travel magazines. But in a world of increasingly homogenized drinking experiences, there's something to be said for a place that maintains its character without turning into a caricature. The locals have known about this gem for years, and now, against my better judgment, I'm letting the secret out. If you find yourself in Bray, whether you're finishing up a cliff walk or just trying to escape Dublin for an afternoon, do yourself a favor and stop into Goldsmiths. Order a pint, grab a seat at the bar, and let the place work its strange magic on you. Just don't blame me when you miss your train back because you got roped into one more round of darts or another chorus of whatever song the karaoke crowd has decided to butcher. Some experiences are worth the hangover.

The Tin Roof Bar in Bray is what happens when Irish charm meets local legend, creating the kind of pub that makes you wonder if you've stumbled into your own episode of Cheers – just with better accents and infinitely superior Guinness. Tucked away like a well-kept secret in the heart of Bray, this beloved watering hole has been perfecting the art of the perfect pint and genuine hospitality since before some of us were old enough to appreciate either. From the moment you cross the threshold, there's something different about The Tin Roof Bar that sets it apart from your typical Irish pub. Maybe it's the way the warm lighting catches the vintage mirrors behind the bar, or how the wooden beams seem to hold decades of stories in their grain. Or perhaps it's the way conversations flow as smoothly as the perfectly poured pints, creating an atmosphere that feels like you're being let in on the town's best-kept secret. The real magic of The Tin Roof Bar Bray lies in its ability to make everyone feel like a regular, even if it's your first visit. The bartenders here don't just serve drinks – they're unofficial town historians, master storytellers, and some of the finest cocktail crafters you'll find this side of Dublin. They'll remember your name, your drink, and probably that funny story you told last time about your cousin's wedding in Kilkenny. Speaking of drinks, let's talk about what makes the liquid offerings here special. The Guinness is poured with the kind of reverence usually reserved for religious ceremonies, taking the full 119.5 seconds (yes, they count) to achieve that perfect creamy head. Their cocktails aren't just drinks; they're little works of art that won't leave your wallet crying. The whiskey selection would make your grandfather proud, featuring both beloved Irish classics and some surprising international guests. The atmosphere here is like a warm hug from an old friend. During the day, sunlight streams through the windows, creating cozy corners perfect for catching up over coffee (yes, they make a mean cup of joe). As evening falls, the place transforms. The lighting dims to that perfect golden hour glow, and if you're lucky, you might catch one of their legendary live music sessions. Local musicians often drop by for impromptu performances that make you feel like you're witnessing something special – because you are. The walls, if they could talk, would tell tales of first dates that led to marriages, business deals sealed with handshakes, and friendships forged over shared pints. Photos and memorabilia chronicle Bray's history, making The Tin Roof Bar feel more like a living museum of local culture than just another pub. Every piece on the wall has a story, and the staff are more than happy to share them – just ask about the mysterious cricket bat mounted above the fireplace. What you won't find here are pretenses or airs and graces. The Tin Roof Bar is proudly unpretentious, offering reasonable prices that remind you that a great night out doesn't need to cost the earth. The regulars range from local characters who've been coming here since before color TV to young professionals who've discovered that sometimes the best WiFi and coffee combination comes with a side of authentic Irish pub atmosphere. For those planning a visit, here's some insider knowledge: Thursday nights are particularly special, with local musicians creating the soundtrack to your evening. The corner seat by the window is prime real estate for people-watching, and if you're lucky enough to snag the booth under the vintage Guinness poster, you've hit the seating jackpot. They take cards (including contactless), but having some cash handy for tipping the musicians is always appreciated. Bray itself is changing, with new venues popping up along the seafront and promenade, but The Tin Roof Bar remains steadfastly authentic – a anchor in a sea of trendy newcomers. It's the kind of place that reminds you why Irish pubs have been exported worldwide but also why nothing beats the original. Here's a tip: if you're visiting Bray, whether for the famous cliff walk or a day by the sea, make The Tin Roof Bar your final destination. There's no better place to rest your feet and raise a glass to a day well spent in one of Ireland's most charming coastal towns.