St Patrick’s Day is one of our favourite days of the year here at TLC. A raucous, colourful celebration from start to finish. We love to watch cities turn green, awash with parades and parties in honour of the patron saint of Ireland. It’s more than just a holiday for those with Irish heritage and beyond. It’s a vibrant tribute to the culture and music of the Emerald Isle.
For Paddy’s Day, you’re likely to want a cosy pub with traditional folk music, or a grand festival with dazzling performances and it’s true that Ireland has no shortage of incredible venues to mark any occasion. And here, we’ll share just some of the Best Irish Venues for all manner of celebrations.
A wedding in a grand estate framed by lush green countryside, castles with coastal vistas, a party in Dublin’s electrifying Temple Bar or a celebration in one of Galway’s charming gastro pubs we’ve rounded up the best places to experience the magic of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
THE BEST IRISH VENUES FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE CELEBRATION
Ashford Castle, County Mayo
A Forbes Five Star Hotel kicks off our choice of the best Irish venues. Part of the Red Carnation Hotel collection, brace yourself for something special. This 800-year-old property has eighty-three individually designed rooms that will transport your guests to a life of unbridled luxury. Pelmets, dramatic drapery and four poster beds take centre stage in most rooms. Choose one with a lake view for added kudos.
The onsite spa at Ashford claimed the title of Ireland’s best spa for eight years running. Your guests will be suitably impressed with the facilities. While the rugged beauty of west Ireland lies just beyond the gates ready to explore.
Five separate event spaces can host up to 88 guests. The venue also offers exclusive use of The Boathouse which can accommodate up to 160 guests, allowing the full castle experience without interruption.
Cashel Palace, Tipperary
A grand Palladian manor with Michelin Star dining can’t fail to impress even the most discerning of guests. This venue is special in every sense. It sits majestically aside the Rock of Cashel. The spectacular yew-lined approach to the property instils a sense of grandeur while retaining its homeliness.
Banqueting takes place in the stunning Ballroom which can host up to two hundred guests when used in its entirety. It can also be divided into two smaller configurations. Private dining here is exceptional, with an array of rooms and smaller spaces depending upon your party’s needs. A secret garden, the decadent Buttery restaurant and the traditional Donoghue’s Bar are all excellent options.
Dromoland Castle
The motto of this esteemed venue in the magical surrounds of County Clare is “Prepare to be welcomed like family, treated like royalty, and spoiled within an inch of your life.” And never was a truer word spoken. A visit to Dromoland will never be forgotten. The venue also boasts of playing host to ‘legends and luminaries, sinners and saints, barons and Beatles and just about everybody in between.’ You had us at the Beatles, Dromoland Castle!
For events, weddings here are of course spectacular. However, the venue’s corporate offering is phenomenal too with a purpose-built conference centre and elegant meeting rooms that can facilitate groups from 20 to 450.
Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin
On the banks of the River Liffey, in one of Temple Bar’s less lively regions, the Smock Alley Theatre is a unique venue for events. It’s full of cultural and historical significance. It was originally the first Theatre Royal to be built outside of London and enjoyed a golden age of theatrical brilliance set within glamorous surroundings. As time passed, it fell into disrepair and closed its doors, reopening in 1787 as a Catholic church and becoming one of the most popular in the city centre. In 2012, the theatre was reborn. Lovingly restored, it now has the affectionate title of Dublin’s ‘newest, oldest theatre’ and is renowned as a ‘hub of theatre, song, dance, art and creativity.’
Original features, exposed brickwork, stained glass windows and ornate ceilings provide a stunning backdrop to any event. Along with the venue’s range of unusual and well-equipped spaces.
Titanic Belfast, Belfast
A striking venue, which richly deserves a place in our selection of the best Irish venues. Titanic Belfast offers a fusion of modern spaces, and a history lesson, combined with a maritime theme. Located at the Titanic slipways where the famous ship was conceived, constructed, and launched, it is now a multi-use visitor attraction that tells her story. It is also home to the last remaining White Star Line vessel – SS Nomadic, and guests can walk the decks, immersing themselves in this unique piece of maritime history.
A diverse selection of event spaces makes this venue suitable for almost any occasion. It’s especially suited to larger events, which can be hosted in the suitably named Titanic Suite with space for eight hundred guests, or the contemporary surroundings of the giant atrium which holds up to six hundred people.
The Guinness Storehouse – Dublin
It’s hard to find something more iconic and symbolic of Ireland’s heritage than a pint of Guinness. So why not set your next event in this unique venue offering immersive spaces rich in Irish culture. Ideal for private parties, product launches and networking events. If you really want to wow them, then head up! The Gravity Bar is situated high above Dublin’s historic rooftops with spectacular 360-degree views over the city. One of the best Irish venues, it never fails to impress.
The Everyman, Cork
A 650-seat listed building is the perfect space for a conference, private party or corporate awards ceremony. This beautiful auditorium is packed with original features and is often described as a ‘jewel of Victorian architecture.’ Looking for a more laid-back venue for an after party or drinks reception then The Everyman Bar is the ideal space and can comfortably facilitate up to sixty people.
John Keogh’s, Galway
We couldn’t finish this list of the best Irish venues without featuring a traditional Irish pub, and so we’re heading to Galway for a gastropub that’s packed with character. If you’re looking for traditional cosy pub interiors and a lively atmosphere, alongside a range of quality dining options then this is the place for you.
DID YOU KNOW?
It’s estimated that over thirteen million pints of Guinness are drunk each and every St Patrick’s Day? Or that in Chicago, they turn the river bright green every year in honour of the event?
Finally, find out more amazing St Patrick’s Day facts here: https://www.businessinsider.com/st-patricks-day-facts-2018-3#chicago-dumps-50-pounds-of-green-dye-into-the-river-every-st-patricks-day-1