The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard
Step into The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard and feel the warmth of crackling fires and rich history. Revel in cozy corners, traditional music, and a stellar whiskey selection in a welcoming, rustic space.
About
There's something undeniably magical about The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard in Kenmare that makes you feel like you've stumbled into the Ireland of your imagination. Nestled in the heart of this charming Kerry town, it's the kind of place where the boundary between pub and time machine becomes delightfully blurred, and where every visit feels like you're being let in on a local secret.
The moment you push open the weathered wooden door of The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard, the warmth hits you like a familiar embrace. Not just the physical warmth from the crackling fireplace that's been keeping Kenmare locals cozy for generations, but the kind that radiates from centuries of stories soaked into these walls. The stone facade might look imposing from the outside, but inside, it's as welcoming as your grandmother's kitchen – if your grandmother had an impressive selection of whiskeys and a talent for pulling the perfect pint of Guinness.
The real magic of this Kenmare gem reveals itself in layers. First, there's the main bar area, where polished wooden surfaces gleam under soft lighting, and locally crafted furnishings invite you to settle in for what the Irish call "the long stretch" – that wonderfully indefinite period when time seems to stand still and conversations flow as freely as the drinks. The bar staff move with the kind of effortless efficiency that comes from years of experience, managing to be everywhere at once while making it look like they're simply having a chat with old friends.
But it's the courtyard that steals the show. Unlike many Irish beer gardens that feel like afterthoughts, The Old Forge's outdoor space is a masterclass in clever design. Sturdy wooden benches sit under well-planned covered areas (because let's face it, this is Ireland), creating perfect little nooks for everything from intimate conversations to impromptu singing sessions. On Friday nights, when traditional music spills out into this space, you'll swear you've found the beating heart of Kerry itself.
Speaking of music, if you're lucky enough to catch a trad session at The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard, you're in for something special. Local musicians don't just play here; they hold court, transforming the pub into a living, breathing celebration of Irish culture. The music starts subtly – perhaps a lone fiddle player in the corner – but by the end of the night, you might find yourself part of an impromptu chorus, surprising yourself with the words to songs you never knew you knew.
The drinks menu deserves special mention. While they pour one of the best pints in Kenmare (and that's saying something), it's their whiskey selection that really shines. The staff know their stuff too – mention an interest in Irish whiskey, and you might find yourself getting an impromptu masterclass in regional varieties and aging processes. They serve their drinks with knowledge, pride, and often a side of local folklore that makes every sip more meaningful.
What sets The Old Forge apart from other Kenmare pubs is its ability to be whatever you need it to be. Looking for a quiet afternoon pint? The snug near the fireplace is your spot. Want to catch up with friends? The courtyard's your playground. Seeking that authentic Irish music experience? Friday nights will make your heart sing. The pub adapts to its patrons' needs with the kind of intuitive hospitality that can't be taught.
For those practical details you'll want to know: they accept all major cards (though having some cash is never a bad idea), and there's plenty of free street parking nearby. The pub fills up quickly on music nights, so arriving early is wise. And while they don't serve food themselves, they're wonderfully positioned near some of Kenmare's best restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a nightcap after dinner.
Here's the thing about The Old Forge Bar & Courtyard in Kenmare – it's more than just another Irish pub. It's a place where memories are made, where stories are shared, and where, for a few hours at least, the outside world feels a million miles away. Whether you're a visitor to Kenmare or a local, do yourself a favor and make this your regular haunt. Some evenings, when the music's playing, the courtyard's humming with conversation, and the drinks are flowing freely, you'll swear you've found a little piece of paradise in Kerry.
Contact Information
Address
Main St, Farrantoreen, Killorglin, Co. Kerry, V93 KR66, Ireland
Kenmare, Ireland
Phone
+353 87 231 5534Website
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