Irish pubs are a staple of the restaurant and bar scene pretty much anywhere you live in the world. In Nice, France, when inquiring about the best bar scene in town (expecting a French cocktail bar), I was unanimously (and surprisingly) directed to an Irish pub. In Malta – a Mediterranean island that’s a cultural blend of Spanish, French, and Italian – the most popular bar was called Ryan’s. An Irish pub. And now, thanks to Airbnb, pub culture has evolved into a full-fledged lodging experience.
Getting the full Irish pub experience means not just throwing back a pint, but actually spending the night there. That’s why many pub owners are turning their watering holes into Airbnbs, and unsurprisingly, it’s proven to be one of the most popular travel and lodging trends. According to Airbnb, these are the most wishlisted pubs you can actually stay in.
Unique exclusive pub framed by rolling hills – Pontardawe, Wales
The Ynys Arms pub is more than just a country watering hole. It’s the quintessential example of the UK’s rustic pub culture. Located in the heart of Wales, the pub can sleep up to 28 people in eight bedrooms, with seven ensuite shower rooms.
A slight departure from the typical pub you’ve seen in movies, this one-bedroom flat is located inside a brewery from the 1800s. The flat features 19th-century architectural elements and a beautiful courtyard, separating the property from the bustling Whitechapel market. It’s also a short walk to Brick Lane, Shoreditch, and Victoria Park.
This Irish pub (actually in Ireland, for once) located in Killorglin has been carefully restored to preserve its original historic integrity. The bar is BYOB, with an outside seating area, hot tub, and even an outdoor shower. It can accommodate up to 19 guests, and though the rooms are cozily small, they’re furnished with modern amenities.
Nebraska might not sound like the place for a classic Irish pub experience, but that’s because you probably haven’t been to the Irish Pub & Inn. Guests will have access to the pub, bedrooms, kitchen, washer/dryer, and fire pit, as well as bikes and kayaks for exploring the local area. Inside, you’ll think you’re in Ireland, but outside you’ll immediately be reminded that you’re in the heart of the American West.
A one-bedroom apartment with a loft, this cozy space is attached to J.L. Sullivan’s Irish Pub, making it dangerously convenient for you to pop next door for a quick pint (or three). Guests here have access to a private entrance and patio area. The pub is also just five miles from Waterville Valley, perfect for exploring all the hiking and biking trails of the White Mountains.
Located right in the city center on the Medieval Mile, the Pumphouse Pub is just a few minutes’ walk from Smithwick’s Experience Tour, Canices Cathedral, and Black Abbey Church. The pub itself has a beer garden and live music, as well as traditional Irish food and drinks. Three people can sleep comfortably in one bedroom, in three single beds.
This village inn has been standing for over 500 years. Located in the village of Tetford, defined by its rolling hills and calm rivers, the inn and pub is a self-catering BnB, meaning you’ll have access to the whole kitchen. It almost feels like owning your own pub – they’ll even hook up beers and lagers of your choice to the taps if you order in advance. It sleeps up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, so it’s perfect for larger groups looking to experience the quiet country life.
The Queen Charlotte Pub was built in 1810, right on the high street near Ramsgate Harbor. The harbor bore witness to some of the most important events in British history, like the Napoleonic Wars and the evacuation of Dunkir, and Queen Victoria’s childhood holiday home is also located nearby. Once the patrons vacate the pub around 9:30 pm, the pub (and fully stocked bar) is all yours. “Old time tunes” permeate the pub thanks to an extensive vinyl collection. Guests stay upstairs, in a two-floor townhouse with kitchen, bathroom, and three bedrooms, one of which has a partial sea view from a balcony.
The oldest property on the list, this 14th-century pub has been converted into an Airbnb with modern amenities while still retaining its historic charm. Accommodating up to 12 guests in six bedrooms, it has a modern kitchen and modern ensuite bathrooms for each bedroom, as well as a beautiful enclosed garden.. The pub is also close to the Camber Sands beach and Romney Marsh.
Built in 1736, this stone lodge was originally a pub but has since been converted into an elegant country residence. It’s surrounded by private gardens, fruit trees, wildlife like ducks, geese, and sheep, and features a fireplace, flagstone floors, log burners, and multiple common areas. The house can accommodate six people across three bedrooms.
