Brits head to Ireland to go to the pub!

A report published by the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation highlights the importance of the Irish pub in attracting tourists.  More than 5M overseas visitors called into a pub while on holiday in Ireland. 

70% of British visitors listened to Irish music in a pub during their trip, and 65% of them said their decision to visit Ireland was influenced by the desire to experience an Irish pub.

Commenting on the report, Padraig Cribben, of the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland said, “If you look at why people come to Ireland; they don’t come to Ireland for the weather...  So it’s the scenery, and the people. 

“And where do they meet the people? They meet people in pubs. They want to experience authentic Irish music in an authentic Irish setting – which is the pub.”

One of the most cost-effective ways to holiday in Ireland – and get recommendations for the best pubs – is to choose a friendly B&B.  There are more than 1,400 accredited B&Bs across the country, all of which can be packaged with Irish Ferries sailings to create a tailor-made holiday.

For example, in Kilkenny, a couple of nights at Chaplins B&B on Castlecorner Road is a great opportunity to enjoy the town’s attractions including an evening at Tynan’s Bridge House Bar. It’s been a favourite with locals since 1703 and has live music every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.

A seven night Irish B&B package (which could include two nights at Chaplins) costs from £307 per person this autumn, including return Irish Ferries crossings for a car and two people.

For more information, visit irishferries.com.