Overview
The Auld Dubliner sits on a bustling corner of Dublin’s cultural quarter, Temple Bar, and has earned a reputation as a genuine Irish boozer with a modern twist. Its façade is adorned with a colourful mural of a weather‑worn sea‑dog captain and his tiny canine companion – a landmark that instantly signals the pub’s blend of history and humour. Inside, the décor is deliberately worn, with dark wood, vintage photographs and a bronze bust of folk legend Luke Kelly looming from the wall, giving the space a lived‑in, authentic feel. Whether you are a first‑time visitor or a seasoned Dublin explorer, the pub offers a lively atmosphere, daily live music, a menu of hearty Irish fare, and six well‑appointed en‑suite bedrooms that make it a convenient base for exploring the city.
History
The name “The Auld Dubliner” evokes James Joyce’s short stories and the folk‑song tradition that has long been part of Dublin’s cultural fabric. The venue is owned by the Smith Group, a family‑run hospitality chain that also runs nearby establishments such as The Norseman and The Lombard. While the pub’s interior retains a classic, almost nostalgic charm, the exterior mural – painted in the autumn of 2022 – has quickly become a local landmark, depicting a grizzled captain and his loyal dog, a nod to Dublin’s maritime heritage. Above the bar, a bronze bust of Luke Kelly, though described by some as “zombie‑like,” pays homage to the singer’s occasional visits and his lasting influence on Irish music.
Recent Developments
In August 2025 the owners submitted a planning application to convert the first‑floor lounge – unused since 2023 – into six short‑term let rooms for tourists. The proposal stresses that the change of use is appropriate for a protected‑structure building in the heart of Temple Bar, where commercial activity dominates the streetscape. If approved, the new rooms will be offered on a short‑stay basis, complementing the existing six en‑suite bedrooms on the ground floor. The application is currently under review by Dublin City Council, with a decision expected later in 2025.
What to See & Do
- Live Music Every Day – From 12 pm onward, The Auld Dubliner hosts live acoustic sets, folk sessions and occasional cover bands. The intimate stage and well‑stocked bar create an atmosphere that feels both communal and personal.
- Mural & Bust – The eye‑catching mural outside makes for a perfect photo‑op, while the Luke Kelly bust offers a quiet moment of reflection on Dublin’s musical legacy.
- Food & Drink – The kitchen serves a mix of traditional Irish dishes – Irish stew, coddle, fish & chips, salmon fillets and meat pies – alongside contemporary plates. A hearty Irish breakfast is also on offer. Pints are on the pricier side; a pint of Guinness was reported at €7.30 in 2022, with Heineken edging toward €9.
- Outdoor Seating – When the weather permits, a small outside area lets you enjoy a drink under the Temple Bar sky.
- Accommodation – Six en‑suite bedrooms are available, each equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, a wall‑mounted flat‑screen TV and free Wi‑Fi. The rooms are accessed via stairs only, so guests with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.
Room Types
| Type | Bed configuration | Key amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Double | One double bed | En‑suite bathroom, tea/coffee facilities, flat‑screen TV, free Wi‑Fi |
| Triple | One double + one single | Same amenities as Double, ideal for groups or families |
Drink Prices (as of 2022)
| Drink | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Guinness (pint) | €7.30 |
| Heineken (pint) | €8‑9 (rising) |
Recognition
The Auld Dubliner is listed by Condé Nast Traveller as one of Dublin’s ten best live‑music venues, praised for its “top‑notch” sessions and welcoming atmosphere. The venue also appears in several travel guides as a solid choice for tourists seeking an authentic Dublin pub experience without the higher price tag of some more tourist‑heavy spots.
Practical Information
The Auld Dubliner’s central location means you are a short walk from Dublin’s major attractions – the Guinness Storehouse, Christ Church Cathedral and the River Liffey. The address is 24‑25 Anglesea Street, Dublin 2, D02 C446.
Opening Hours – Monday‑Saturday 10:30 am – 11:30 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm – 11:30 pm (subject to change – please verify).
Check‑in / Check‑out – Check‑in from 15:00, check‑out by 00:00. The short‑term let rooms proposed in the 2025 planning application would follow the same schedule.
Booking a Room – Reservations can be made through the official website’s “Book Now” portal (website currently unavailable – see note in front‑matter). Walk‑in guests may also be accommodated if rooms are free.
Contact & Access – Phone: +353 1 677 0527. The building is accessed via stairs only; there is no elevator, so larger luggage should be managed accordingly. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the premises, and each room includes tea and coffee making facilities.
Getting There – Temple Bar is well served by Dublin’s public‑transport network. Luas tram stops (e.g., Jervis and Abbey Street) and several Dublin Bus routes are within a few minutes’ walk. Tara Street train station is about 500 m away. Limited street parking is available nearby, but most visitors find walking or cycling the easiest option.
Pet Policy – Pets are not allowed on the premises.
Accessibility – No wheelchair access; rooms are reachable only by stairs.
Nearby Attractions
The Auld Dubliner is ideally positioned for a day of sightseeing. Within a five‑minute walk you’ll find the historic St Mary’s Pro‑Cathedral and the GPO Witness History Visitor Centre. A short stroll brings you to the Aviva Stadium, perfect for catching a rugby match or a concert. Trinity College, the Irish Whiskey Museum and the bustling Grafton Street shopping district are also within easy reach.
Visitor Reviews
The pub enjoys a solid reputation among travellers, holding a 4.4‑star rating on Google. Reviewers frequently praise the friendly staff, the quality of the live music, and the value for money. Highlights include:
- “Very nice pub in Temple Bar, great music and atmosphere – not overly expensive.” (TripAdvisor)
- “The staff are adorable, professional and make you feel at home.” (Google)
- “Outdoor seating is a nice bonus when the weather is good.” (RestaurantGuru)
Most guests note that the venue is lively into the night, making it a popular spot for a late‑night pint.
Price Range – Typical meals and drinks fall between €9 and €21 per person.
Facilities – Credit cards accepted, free Wi‑Fi, non‑smoking throughout, no pool.
The Auld Dubliner offers a rare combination of authentic Irish pub culture, live music, and comfortable city‑centre accommodation. Its historic touches, from the mural to the Luke Kelly bust, give visitors a sense of stepping into a living piece of Dublin’s story, while the modern amenities ensure a hassle‑free stay. Whether you’re here for a pint, a night of folk tunes, or a convenient night’s rest before exploring the capital, The Auld Dubliner welcomes you with the warmth of a true Dublin home.