The West Way Kells

The West Way Kells is that rare gem of a pub where the moment you cross the threshold, you feel like you've just walked into your best mate's living room – if your mate happened to pour the perfect pint and host the liveliest traditional music sessions in County Meath. Nestled in the heart of Kells, this beloved watering hole has mastered that elusive Irish pub magic where everyone's treated like a regular, even if it's your first time through the door.

Let me tell you about the night I wandered into The West Way during a particularly spirited trad session. The musicians were tucked into their usual corner, fiddles and bodhráns creating that soul-stirring soundtrack that makes Irish pubs feel like time machines to simpler days. But here's the thing about The West Way Kells – it's not trying to be a tourist trap version of an Irish pub. It's the real deal, where locals and visitors alike find themselves sharing stories over perfectly poured pints, and somehow, by the end of the night, you've made three new friends and learned a centuries-old ballad.

The pub's interior strikes that perfect balance between well-worn comfort and spotless maintenance. Dark wood panels line the walls, bearing silent witness to countless celebrations and consolations. The bar itself gleams like it's just been polished (because it probably has – the staff here take serious pride in their work), and the brass fixtures have that warm patina that only comes from years of careful attention. It's the kind of place where your eyes keep discovering new details – vintage photographs, local sports memorabilia, and the occasional quirky knick-knack that probably has a story worth hearing.

Speaking of stories, the pizza here deserves its own chapter. Yes, you read that right – this traditional Irish pub serves up some surprisingly spectacular pizzas. The dough is crispy yet chewy, the toppings generous, and it's exactly what you need after a few pints of the black stuff. It's become such a local favorite that you'll often see regulars popping in just for a takeaway, though most end up staying for "just one quick one" (narrator: it's never just one).

The outdoor area is another pleasant surprise. The sheltered smoking area has evolved into more of a garden oasis, where summer evenings stretch lazily into night, and the sound of laughter mingles with the clinking of glasses. It's dog-friendly too, so don't be surprised to see a few four-legged regulars getting their fair share of attention from cooing patrons.

What really sets The West Way Kells apart is its staff. They've perfected that uniquely Irish ability to make you feel both thoroughly looked after and completely at ease. Need recommendations for your next drink? They've got you. Want to know the history of the building? Pull up a stool. Looking for the best local spots to visit? They'll draw you a map on a napkin and probably introduce you to someone who can show you around.

For sports fans, this place is a revelation. When there's a big match on, the atmosphere is electric but never intimidating. The multiple screens are positioned just right, and somehow they've managed to create spaces where you can be in the thick of the excitement or have a quiet conversation in a corner – a feat of pub engineering if ever there was one.

The prices won't make your wallet weep either. In an age where a round of drinks can feel like a down payment on a house, The West Way keeps things refreshingly reasonable. The value for money, especially considering the quality of both drinks and food, is something that keeps locals loyal and visitors pleasantly surprised.

Here's an insider tip: Thursday nights are particularly special, with local musicians dropping in for impromptu sessions that often turn into full-blown céilís. And thanks to the free parking for customers, you can leave the car overnight if the craic gets a bit too good (just make sure to sort out a lift home).

If you're in Kells, or even just passing through, The West Way isn't just another pub – it's a slice of authentic Irish pub culture that manages to feel both timeless and completely of the moment. Drop in for a pint, stay for the pizza, and don't be surprised if you find yourself becoming part of the furniture. After all, that's exactly what makes The West Way Kells not just a pub, but a proper Irish home away from home.