The Best Places to Grab a Drink When You're Visiting the Irish Grand National

The Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse Racecourse is one of the most eagerly awaited events in Irish horse racing. This is a day that’s filled with action, passion, and an unbeatable atmosphere. But it really can be thirsty work! All that excitement (and shouting as your horse races to the finish if you’re into a bit of Irish Grand National betting) can take it out of you!

Whether you just want to wet your whistle, rehydrate or even celebrate, whether you want a drink before you get started, head out in between events to give yourself a break from all the action, or finish the day with a bevvy after the final horse has crossed the finish line, you need to know where to go!

So, with that being said, if you are heading out to the Irish Grand National and you’re looking for a great place to grab a drink, here are some of our top recommendations… near Fairyhouse and beyond.

On-Site Options – Bars at Fairyhouse Racecourse

If you don’t want to leave the venue, then the good news is that the Fairyhouse Racecourse offers a pretty decent selection of bars, so you won’t need to go far for a refreshing drink:

The Bobbyjo Bar – This one, named after the famous Irish Grand National winner, is always popular with racegoers. It has an excellent selection of drinks and an insane atmosphere – making it just the right place to sit back and soak up all the excitement of the races.
The Powers Gold Label Bar – This is a great place to get yourself a classic Irish whiskey or a cold pint as you watch all the action unfold.
The Jameson Bar – If you fancy a whiskey, then you’ll love the variety of premium Irish whiskeys you’ll find here.
The Festival Bar – After more of a party feel? Then head to the Festival Bar, which is the perfect place to get a quick drink between races.

Nearby Pubs & Bars

If you’re looking to take it outside of the Fairyhouse Racecourse, you won’t be left wanting, as there are lots of fantastic pubs and bars in the region – all offering you the perfect place to chill out and unwind after you’ve had enough of the excitement of the races.

The Snailbox in Kilmoon, Ashbourne

This is a very popular spot you’ll find just a short drive from Fairyhouse. If you’re looking for warm hospitality, tasty food, and a seriously decent drinks menu, then look no further. They have a super impressive whiskey selection and it’s a great place to go, whether you want to enjoy a quiet drink to wind down or you’re looking for a lively evening out with some of your fellow race fans.

Brady’s of Dunboyne – Dunboyne, Co. Meath

If you want a traditional Irish pub vibe that has a great atmosphere, want a bit of hearty pub grub, and you’re after a well-stocked bar with a superb range of beers, spirits and wines. It’s an excellent choice if you want a true Irish pub experience after a true Irish dancing experience.

The Hatchet Inn – Summerhill, Co. Meath

This one is a charming pub, which offers tired racegoers a nice, snug and cosy setting. It has earned a reputation for warm, friendly service and a seriously decent selection of pints, The Hatchet Inn is the perfect place if you just want to kick back and unwind with a nice pint of Guinness or a classic Irish whiskey.

Ryans Bar – Ratoath, Co. Meath

Finally, we have Ryans Bar, which has one of the best beer gardens, excellent live music, and a great atmosphere – perfect for a sunny day at the races. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, commiserating a loss… or you just want to soak up all that post-race excitement, it’s a great place to be.

Late-Night Options

Not ready to call it a night after a day at the races? Here’s where you can take those celebrations a bit further..:

Dicey’s Garden in Harcourt Street, Dublin – A superb place with great music and drink deals, perfect for continuing your celebrations.
The Church in Jervis Street, Dublin – A stunning restored church-turned-bar that has a brilliant drinks menu and super cool live music.
Copper Face Jacks in Harcourt Street, Dublin – Perfect if you want to dance the night away.

So, there you have it – all the best places to celebrate wins, commiserate losses… or just sit back and unwind after a hard day at the races.

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