McNeills Pub Sessions, Capel St

McNeills Pub on Capel Street is a classic Dublin institution, known for its authentic Irish music sessions that draw both locals and visitors. The pub itself is a warm, wood-paneled space with a long bar, cozy snugs, and a fireplace that crackles in winter. What sets McNeills apart is its commitment to traditional music, most evenings, musicians gather in the corner to play fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns, creating a spontaneous and lively atmosphere. The sessions are informal; you might hear reels, jigs, and ballads passed down through generations. The pub also serves a good pint of Guinness and classic pub fare like Irish stew and fish and chips. Capel Street is a vibrant thoroughfare with a mix of shops and eateries, making McNeills a perfect stop for a cultural evening. The crowd is friendly and mixed, from students to seasoned trad enthusiasts, all drawn by the genuine, unpretentious vibe.

Don't miss

• Experience live traditional Irish music sessions, usually starting around 9 PM
• Sip a pint of Guinness in the cozy, wood-paneled bar
• Try the Irish stew or seafood chowder for a hearty meal
• Chat with local musicians and learn about the tunes being played
• Explore Capel Street's diverse shops and eateries before or after your visit

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit McNeills Pub Sessions, Capel St

Cheapest way inSaint Patrick's Cathedral Dublin Entry Ticket4.7★ · 785 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$13 per personSee dates →Most bookedDublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour4.9★ · 6,873 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$28 per personSee dates →Top ratedDublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour small group tour max 15 people5★ · 268 travelers~9 hoursFrom$112 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Sessions are informal; feel free to tap your foot but avoid talking loudly during tunes.
• Cash is preferred for smaller purchases, though cards are accepted.
• The pub can get very crowded on session nights; arrive early for a seat.
• Photography is allowed but be respectful of musicians and other patrons.

A bit of history

McNeills has been a pub on Capel Street for over a century, though the exact founding date is unclear. It has long been a gathering place for musicians, and its sessions have become a staple of Dublin's traditional music scene, continuing a tradition that dates back to the 18th century.