There is something special about sitting in a cosy Irish pub, listening to the sound of fiddles, bodhráns and guitars filling the room while locals and visitors come together to enjoy a night of traditional music. In the Boyne Valley, trad music is part of the culture, history and welcoming spirit that makes this region so unique.
There is no shortage of places to enjoy a trad music session, a great pint and a warm Irish welcome.
Whether you are planning a weekend break, exploring the heritage of the Boyne Valley or simply looking for a memorable night out, these pubs offer the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of Irish trad music.
The Royal Meath, Navan
Located on Watergate Street in the heart of Navan, The Royal Meath is one of the town’s oldest bars, having been in the Geraghty family since the 1960s. This much loved pub has built a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere, comfortable surroundings and the perfect balance between tradition and modern hospitality.
Live music takes place 4 nights a week, bringing plenty of energy and entertainment to the pub. Trad nights take place often, so keep an eye on their social media for the next one.
Find out more HERE!
Fox’s Castle Lounge, Skryne
Perched on the picturesque Hill of Skryne, Fox’s Castle Lounge offers stunning views of the surrounding Meath countryside along with the warm welcome you would expect from a traditional Irish pub.
This family run pub is a favourite among locals and visitors looking for an authentic Irish experience, complete with a friendly atmosphere and a perfectly poured pint of Guinness. Every Wednesday night, the pub comes alive with a traditional music session, making it a wonderful place to enjoy live Irish music in a relaxed countryside setting.
Find out more HERE!
The Central, Navan
Situated in the centre of Navan town, The Central offers a lively atmosphere with a unique mix of dining, entertainment and nightlife. This popular venue features an award winning restaurant, multiple bars and a heated rooftop terrace, making it a great destination for an evening out.
With its vibrant design, open kitchen restaurant, outdoor areas and regular live music, The Central has a buzzing atmosphere that many visitors describe as feeling like a holiday destination. They host a Wednesday TRAD SESSION with Nigel Davey.
Find out more HERE!
Jack Quinn’s, Trim
Just 3km from the historic town of Trim, Jack Quinn’s is one of the oldest pubs in County Meath, dating back to the 1800s. Steeped in character, this traditional pub is known for its warm hospitality, roaring open fire, great pints of Guinness and famous Irish coffees.
Every Thursday night, Jack Quinn’s hosts traditional music sessions, providing the perfect soundtrack to an evening in one of Meath’s most historic pubs.
Find out more HERE!
Boggans Bar, Rathcore
Boggans Bar offers visitors an authentic Irish pub experience away from the hustle and bustle. With its warm atmosphere, friendly locals and welcoming surroundings, it is the perfect place to relax after exploring the Boyne Valley.
A visit to Boggans Bar is all about enjoying good company, a great drink and the traditional Irish pub atmosphere that has been enjoyed for generations. A Friday night Trad session is held here once per month.
Find out more HERE!
Fagan’s Village Inn, Kildalkey
Located in Kildalkey, Fagan’s Village Inn is a popular community pub known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals. Sports, conversation and good craic are always at the heart of this much loved village pub.
Live music takes place every weekend, with a traditional music session every Monday night. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the community spirit and musical traditions that remain such an important part of Irish pub culture.
Find out more HERE!
Harnan’s Bar, Rathmolyon
For a truly traditional experience, Harnan’s Bar is a must visit. This family owned and run Irish thatch pub offers a unique setting where visitors can enjoy the charm and character of a traditional country pub.
Every Monday night, the pub hosts live traditional music, creating a memorable evening filled with music, conversation and the warm hospitality that Irish pubs are famous for.
Find out more HERE!
McCormack’s Bar & Lounge, Trim
Located directly opposite the historic Trim Castle, McCormack’s Bar & Lounge offers visitors the chance to enjoy traditional Irish hospitality in one of Ireland’s most picturesque towns. The front bar provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax after exploring the medieval streets and landmarks of Trim.
Every Tuesday night, McCormack’s hosts its Trad Tuesday session, while live music continues throughout the weekends in the lounge, which offers a more modern atmosphere for those looking to enjoy a night out.
Find out more HERE!
Clarkes Bar Drogheda
Clarkes Bar, situated in the town centre of Drogheda is a unique pub dating back to 1900. Today the unique features of the interior are still in place along with some wonderful characters who frequent on a daily basis. The pint of Guinness is the main tipple and it is said to be have the best pint in town. Well worth a visit!
They host a trad session every Sunday evening!
Find out more here.
Jacks Bar Kells
Specialising in great food, drinks, cocktails and craic, Jack's is renowned for its weekly Thursday Trad Session. Pair the visit with a delicious meal and you won't get better anywhere else in Ireland!
Find out more here.
James Griffin Pub Trim
There’s always something happening at James Griffin from trad sessions, live music, DJ Beano and much more. Check out their Trad session every Thursday evening.
Find out more here.
O'Connors Bar Kells
Another favourite in the heritage town of Kells, O'Connor's has live music every weekend. Keep an eye on their socials for their Trad music line up.
Find out more here.
Whether you are a lifelong fan of Irish music or simply looking for a unique evening during your visit, make sure to add one of these traditional music sessions to your Boyne Valley itinerary. With great music and an unforgettable atmosphere, a night of trad in the Boyne Valley is an experience you will remember long after your visit ends!
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