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Visit The World’s Oldest Bar right here in Ireland

Sean’s Bar is the oldest Pub in the world and holds a Guinness Book of Record. Find out more here!

Situated in the heart of Ireland, halfway between Dublin and Galway, lies the famous oldest bar in the world, Sean’s Bar – seen as a part of the life and soul of Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

Sean’s Bar has been around since 900 AD. So if you’re a local, it’s almost guaranteed that your forefathers have ordered a pint or two from this classic bar. There are many things this historic bar has to offer other than a strong foothold in the history of the world, they also have their own Whiskey – which is absolutely amazing.

A Fascinating Origin Story

This fascinating tale begins in Athlone at around 900 AD, Athlone was once a great ford across the Shannon known as the Ford of Antiquity. Around this time, a man called Luain Mac Luighdeach established an Inn close to ‘Áth Mor’ aka The Great Ford.

Luain served as a guide for those who had to cross Shannon’s torrents – this very same Inn is now Sean’s Bar!

There is actually much more evidence supporting the bar’s ancient history.

During renovations in 1970, the walls of the bar were found to be made of “wattle and wicker” dating all the way back to the 9th century. These walls as well as minted coins that were used in the bar are on display in the National Museum.

 Sean’s Bar has been extensively examined by the Guinness Book of Records and proudly holds the record of being “The Oldest Pub in Ireland”, officially dating from 900AD.

Sean’s Bar Signature Whiskey

Let’s get right to the booze, shall we? With over a thousand years of history, Ireland’s oldest pub has had much time and experience to craft and perfect its limited edition of Irish Whiskey.

Whether it be online or in-person, you can be sure to find the bar’s signature Whiskeys such as the ‘Luain Edition’ – which is dedicated to the bar’s first Inn Keeper. This special blend of grain and Malt Whiskey has a distinctive flavour that will be a delight to your tastebuds and warm your spirit.

Also on sale is Sean’s Bar’s Single Malt Clonmacnoise, first released in 2018, this Single Malt Whiskey is a tribute to the Irish monks in the monasteries of Athlone who developed and perfected to art of distillation over the centuries.

Music Events

With live music, seven nights a week, live bands, flowing beers, an electrifying environment, and good ol’ Irish laughter. It’s no surprise that Sean’s Bar has been a favourite destination for many for over 10 centuries.

To Wrap Things Up

Sean’s Bar has an outstanding reputation worldwide, making it is a ‘must see’ destination in Ireland. Whether you’re there for the lively atmosphere, rich history, or just to have a good old laugh and a double Whiskey – you’re bound to have a good time.

To learn more about the Pub, and how to get there, click down below.

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