About The Brazen Head
Ah, The Brazen Head , if walls could talk, these ones would have tales spanning over 800 years! Tucked away on Lower Bridge Street in the heart of Dublin's The Liberties, this is Ireland's oldest pub, with origins dating back to 1198 when it started as an inn for monks from the nearby All Hallows Priory. It's a living piece of Dublin history, where rebels plotted, poets drank, and legends were born. Picture low-beamed ceilings, flickering candlelight, and a cosy warren of rooms that feel like stepping into a medieval tavern. The cobbled courtyard out back is pure magic on a summer evening, alive with trad sessions and the chatter of locals. As your local mate guiding you through The Liberties pubs, I can tell you this spot embodies the soul of old Dublin , unpretentious, warm, and full of character. Whether you're nursing a pint of Guinness drawn to perfection or tucking into hearty fare like Irish stew, you'll feel the pulse of the city here.
Surrounded by the vibrant Liberties neighbourhood, it's just a short stroll from St Patrick's Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse, making it ideal for a pub crawl that blends history and hops. No wonder it's a top pick among the best pubs in The Liberties, Dublin , it's not just a drink, it's an experience steeped in tradition.
What to Expect
Expect a classic Irish pub vibe: dark wood panelling, open fires crackling on chilly nights, and spontaneous live Irish music most evenings, especially weekends when fiddles and bodhráns fill the air. The beer selection is spot-on , creamy Guinness, local craft brews from Wicklow Wolf or Trouble Brewing, and a solid whiskey list featuring rare Irish drops. Food-wise, go for pub grub elevated: succulent lamb shank, seafood chowder bursting with fresh Dublin Bay prawns, or veggie options like champ with a modern twist. Portions are generous, prices fair, and the staff couldn't be friendlier , they'll even share ghost stories about the pub's haunted reputation!
Insider Tips
As a Dublin local, here's the scoop: arrive early for a courtyard table in summer; it's standing room only later. Ask for the 'monk's nook' for ultimate cosiness. Pair your pint with the daily specials board , black pudding bonanza on Fridays. Trad sessions kick off around 9:30pm; don't miss Tuesday nights for the best. Wander in from Francis Street for the full Liberties loop, popping into nearby Thomas House after. Book ahead for private events, but walk-ins rule for solos. And pro tip: the herbal liqueurs are a hidden gem for winter warmers. Sláinte , you've found a Liberties legend!