Traditional Music Sessions in the Pubs

About

The single reason Doolin is on the map. Traditional Irish music sessions run in the village pubs every night of the year, a living tradition rather than a tourist show, carried out of these fields to a worldwide audience by the Russell brothers in the last century. There are four music pubs: Gus O'Connor's on Fisher Street, McGann's and McDermott's at Roadford, and Fitzpatrick's at Hotel Doolin. In summer the rooms are full of visitors and the music starts after eight most nights; in the quiet months the sessions feel like the locals' own. It is free to listen, you just buy a pint, but arrive before the music starts if you want a seat. No two nights are the same, so a wander between the pubs is the way to do it.

Highlights

• ✓Sessions every night of the year across four music pubs
• ✓Gus O'Connor's, McGann's, McDermott's and Fitzpatrick's
• ✓The home of the Russell brothers' Clare style
• ✓Most genuine in the autumn and winter, away from the summer crowds

Tips

• →Arrive before the music starts, usually after eight, to get a seat.
• →Wander between the pubs; each night is different in each room.
• →The Russell Memorial Weekend in late February is the trad highlight of the year.

Best Season