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Where Can You Visit Europe’s Oldest Pub?

Margaret Lipman

Last Modified Date: February 18, 2024

Ireland is famed for its rich and varied history, as well as for its iconic public houses, or pubs. But long before anyone had ever heard of Guinness or Jameson, patrons were imbibing at what is now Sean's Bar in Athlone, located on the bank of the River Shannon in County Westmeath

According to Guinness World Records, the pub is the oldest in Ireland. Its owners claim that it's also the oldest in Europe and possibly even the world. And according to archaeological research conducted by the National Museum of Ireland, portions of the pub's wattle, mud, and wood walls can be carbon dated to around 900 A.D. Coins used as tavern tokens at the site support the idea that it's been a drinking spot for some 1,100 years.

Legend has it that Sean's Bar was originally known as Luain’s Inn, named after the innkeeper who also helped pilgrims and other travelers ford the treacherous rapids of the River Shannon.

The great Irish pub:

Ireland's pubs are under threat: due to social and economic factors, they have been closing at a rate of more than two a week.

Some dispute that Sean's Bar is actually over a millennium old; conflicting research suggests that its most ancient materials may have been repurposed from an older building.

Before dark beer and whisky were commonplace, mead was a popular drink in medieval Ireland.

Margaret Lipman is a teacher and blogger who frequently writes for WiseGEEK about topics related to personal finance, parenting, health, nutrition, and education. Learn more...

Margaret Lipman

Margaret Lipman is a teacher and blogger who frequently writes for WiseGEEK about topics related to personal finance, parenting, health, nutrition, and education. Learn more...