With tens of thousands of pubs spread across the UK and Ireland, it’s clear that pubs hold a special place in people’s hearts. Whether it’s to unwind after a long day, celebrate a birthday, or enjoy a traditional Sunday roast, pubs remain a beloved gathering spot. Among them, one stands out with a remarkable distinction as it holds the Guinness World Record for being the oldest pub in Ireland.
From its classic old wooden bar and cozy open fireplace to floors blanketed in sawdust and walls adorned with historic artifacts, Sean’s Bar in Athlone in central Ireland offers an authentic experience unlike any other. The Guinness Book of Records has already recognised it as the oldest pub in Ireland, dating all the way back to 900 AD, and ongoing research is taking place to explore its claim as the oldest pub in the world, with no older establishment yet documented.
It all began when a man named Luain established an inn near a key river crossing known as “Áth Mor”, or “The Great Ford.” Luain served as a guide to travellers attempting to cross the fast-moving waters of the River Shannon, and over time, a small settlement formed around this strategic location.
That settlement eventually adopted his name, Áth Luain, which later evolved into what we now know as the town of Athlone.
According to the pub, renovations carried out in 1970 revealed fascinating evidence of its early origins. Walls made of wattle and wicker, an ancient building technique, were uncovered, dating back to the ninth century.
Alongside them, old coins minted by past landlords for use in trade with customers were also found. These remarkable artifacts are now proudly displayed in both the National Museum of Ireland and within the pub itself, where visitors can quite literally step back in time and experience a piece of living history while enjoying a pint.
Located near the ruins of a 12th-century Norman castle, Sean’s Bar is not only steeped in centuries of history but also famous for its unique whiskey tradition. Research has found that the origins of whiskey distillation can be traced back to the 6th century on the nearby islands of Lough Ree and along the River Shannon, where small monasteries first began producing the spirit.
Sean’s Bar has also been listed in both “25 of the Most Incredible Bars in the World” and “50 Bars to Blow Your Mind” by Lonely Planet.
One TripAdvisor user wrote about the pub: “Stopped in one afternoon and had a couple of pints of Guinness. Fascinating place with lots of history, listed as oldest pub in Ireland since 900.
“It wasn’t particularly crowded when we went, got couple of stills at the bar. Bartenders act as local historians and Timmy filled us in on everything.”
Mike, from Southampton, also said: “A touch of history and a great selection of draft beer. If in Athlone, you pretty much HAVE to stop at Sean’s. It claims to be the oldest pub in the world. Much bigger than I expected. Great selection of beer and a charming atmosphere.”
Someone else wrote: “I have been to this pub many times and it’s one of the best pubs if not the best pub in Ireland. I had two friends with me and Timmy, the proprietor, came over to say hello and he gave us some great genuine stories about the pub.”