About Arthur's Jazz & Blues Club
Hidden on bustling Thomas Street in The Liberties, Arthur's Jazz & Blues Club is a Dublin institution for soulful live music lovers. This traditional pub by day transforms into a smoky jazz haven on Sundays, drawing punters with its authentic blues and jazz sessions that echo through the neighbourhood. Dating back decades, Arthur's embodies Liberties spirit: gritty, welcoming, and full of character. Swing by after a stroll along the Coombe, pint in hand, and you'll feel like a local in seconds.
The venue's no-nonsense charm shines; worn wooden bars, flickering candles, and walls adorned with music memorabilia create an immersive vibe. It's the perfect antidote to tourist traps, offering genuine Dublin hospitality amid the area's historic distillery lanes and markets. Sensory highlights include the rich aroma of roasted nuts, smooth whiskey pours, and trumpet riffs cutting through chatter.
What to Expect
Sunday sessions start around 9pm, featuring local jazz quartets and blues bands in a packed, standing-room space. Entry is free, but arrive early for a stool. The crowd mixes grizzled musos with young enthusiasts, all swaying to improvisational sets lasting hours. Pub grub like hearty sandwiches complements the music, and pints flow affordably.
Insider Tips
Mark your calendar for Sunday nights; they're legendary but unadvertised widely, so spread the word sparingly. Park on nearby Meath Street to avoid hassle, or Luas to The Coombe stop. Chat up the bar staff for session secrets; they've stories for days. Combine with a Friday trad sesh at nearby Dice Bar for a full Liberties music weekend. If it's raining (classic Dublin), Arthur's cosy nook is your haven. This spot proves The Liberties' live music scene thrives on passion, not polish, delivering nights you'll rave about back home.