Durty Nelly's

Pub · Bunratty

Durty Nelly's

Pub · Bunratty

1

Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland

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Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
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Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null
Durty Nelly's by null

Highlights

Step into this enchanting 1620s thatched-roof pub, where medieval vibes and hearty fare make for a perfect pint beside Bunratty Castle.  

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Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland Get directions

durtynellys.ie

$$$$$$ · Menu

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Bunratty, Co. Clare, Ireland Get directions

+353 61 364 861
durtynellys.ie
durtynellys
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@durtynellysirl

$$$$$$ · Menu

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Mar 4, 2025

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"Not only is this gastropub a legend in Ireland, but there’s a great story behind it, too. Tucked right next to Bunratty Castle, the historic house is said to have belonged to a lady named Durty Nelly, who was first keeper of the toll bridge, then, pub owner and creator of a “magic” whiskey brew that could heal everything from a sick pig to a man’s virility. Whatever its true origins, the boisterous restaurant and bar has provided comfort for generations of locals and international visitors, including many who come straight from nearby Shannon Airport. Naturally, there’s a full and extensive beverage list, with everything from signature cocktails and internationally sourced wines to Irish beers on tap, as well as several different bar areas—but it's the "Pull Your Own Pint" feature and the sing-a-longs at the Piano Bar that make us gun for it straight from the baggage carousel." - Sandra Ramani

3 Best Day Trips from Dublin to Belfast, Dromoland Castle, County Clare, and County Wicklow | Condé Nast Traveler
View Postcard for Durty Nelly's

Tara Konya

Google
Step Back in Time at Durty Nellie's 🍺🏰 A 400+ year-old tavern serving up the "good stuff." This charming pub is packed with history and character. Perfect for a pint 🍻 and a taste of the past. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying a drink next to medieval treasure, the Bunratty Castle! ✨

Windelynn W

Google
Very casual set of 3 different versions of restaurant styles! Oyster bar, terrace, pub and outdoor dining space directly across Bunratty Castle and along the river view! Food wise the chips were proper tasty, Burger was massive and he lamb shank with the gravy and mashed carrots were fabulous! Kids portion size of burger was huge and came with loads of chips! Would recommend for kids, adults and saw quite a few folks dressed in fancy garb dining at the upper terrace restaurant.

Andrea Addington

Google
We went right at opening on a Wednesday, late July and we were seated right away. The staff was very friendly and they worked hard to make sure all the patrons were attended to. It looked like they had a lot of seating. The food was good and the restaurant was fun to look around in, there's a lot to see in there. The salmon with dill sauce was brilliant and my son loved his lamb shank. If you're in Bunratty, it's worth a stop.

Elizabeth A. Howard

Google
Simply amazing. The food, drinks, and atmosphere were exactly what we needed after a day of driving rhe countryside. So amazing to think this place has been providing the exact same service to travelers for so many centuries.

Theresa St. John

Google
We were traveling during late October, to attend a special event at Bunratty Castle. We saw this restaurant and decided to stop in. We ate at a cozy table inside The Oyster Restaurant - apparently they have a few different places people can dine here. We weren't really hungry, so chose the Atlantic Seafood Chowder and some mussels. The food was wonderful, chowder was piping hot, like it should be. Waitstaff was friendly, wanted to talk a bit about where we were from. It was a a really fun time. I'd love to go back again for dinner sometime. The menu is extensive and many unique dishes are offered.

Ben Cline

Google
So far we've only had the mussels, but that's worth the 5 star review as it is! If the lamb is anywhere near as good, I'll have to move here! Unfortunately I can't give 10 stars!

Evan trulock jones

Google
You get a wierd greeting are ye here for food or drink. We were both so that kind of phased the dude. Anyway everyone who worked there seemed jaded dealing with tourists and we're gruff and short with us. I order a toasted chease sandwich and a salad and a cup of tea. The sandwich was nice, salad wad olded then the Buntatty castle next door. It was of the bag variety and inedible with a thin helping of some form of salad dressing. The decor and antiques were a nice touch. I'd recommend the owner needs to change out the staff and have a chief redo the menue. The experience totally let's down the beauty of the historic castle and is not in keeping with international standards.

Kristy Johnson

Google
Our first night in Ireland, we stopped at Durty Nelly’s as it came highly recommended. The food was amazing and the beer was so good. We met some really fun people and the service was great.

John T.

Yelp
Come here for the sticky toffee pudding! I got the seafood chowder and the toffee pudding. Portion sizes were good, and it's a great option after visiting Bunratty Castle. Street parking is tight, so it's better to park at the castle and walk over.

Bill E.

Yelp
FIrst place I ate when I made it to Ireland this time around. Such a good sandwich. They had a party going on upstairs but made room for a table of 7 of us to be able to fit and even though they were preparing for a private party - they made sure to let us know that we should enjoy our meal and not rush. Food was reasonable and so good. I had a club sandwich and it was made just right.

Karly K.

Yelp
Historical spot well worth the visit. A dim-lit, pub-like atmosphere inside with no frills. Average menu with a few interesting additions all at a reasonable rate. Down to earth service though a bit slow (perhaps it was busy with tourists like me).

Tim A.

Yelp
In Shannon, Ireland on a layover and we decided to stop for lunch at the original Durty Nellie's. It is located next to the famous Bunratty Castle on the Owenogarney River. My wife ordered the pot pie (2/5) and was not impressed. I ordered the fish and chips (5/5) and I couldn't have been happier. The breading was light, a perfect beer batter flavor. The chips (3/5) were downright bland. I ordered a Smithwick on tap and it was delicious, my first on tap Irish beer. If you're looking for some great pub food, DN's is for you . Highly recommended!

Elizabeth A. H.

Yelp
The service was very nice and this was a pleasant stop to spend a long lunch after driving the countryside. The food and drinks were good. It was amazing to think about how long this establishment has been meeting these exact needs for people through the ages.

Gloria C.

Yelp
Great place to stop for a brew and a visit! Impressive display of Police badges and fun atmosphere!

Tara N.

Yelp
The food here was good and the service was welcoming. The tables we sat at were very cramped and pushed together, but having a group of five people try to fit at a table for two (between two other tables for two) did not help. There was a dining room and it didn't seem that busy so I'm not sure why they we seated there. This was a nice and fun spot to stop for lunch during a very rainy day!

Caitlin O.

Yelp
Took our group super late at night, amazing service. We are tourists and did a food tour in Galway earlier in the day and were starving afterwards. They took us and fed us...we are eternally grateful. Friendly. Yummy food.

Michele P.

Yelp
In 2017 had a really fun time after attending the banquet next door at Bunratty Castle. At that time we did not have food - just pints! Made a return visit in May of 2023 and was quite disappointed. This was a family trip so we stopped at the folk park which was disappointing. We continued that experience at the restaurant I am sorry to say. Our waitress was not engaged or engaging at all. She left our menus and returned to take our order. The menu offered basic items and sadly, was Americanized. This was something we ran into frequently and it was disappointing. Next time our food stops will be chosen with more care. The fish and chips were fine, the chicken fingers for my granddaughter were ok, pretty typical. The food did arrive in a timely manner especially since they were quite busy. I had asked for malt vinegar for my chips (fries) but ended up with a bottle of white vinegar, no explanation, it was just set down on the table and she walked away. As we walked out the door my daughter realized the sanitary cap for the baby's bottle had been left on the table. She caught our waitress and asked for it and was told - "too late it is gone." I would not bother to return or recommend going to Durty Nelly's based on our experience. The wonderful Irish experience sadly, was missing.

Christina F.

Yelp
Here to visit from the US. Our waitress was awesome....we ordered food and asked for a "taste" of tomato soup and she brought us each a small bowl! My seafood soup appetizer was a meal!!! Recommend

Paulina A.

Yelp
Durty Nelly's is a historic bar in Ireland so my friend and I had to visit after touring the Bunratty Castle. It was built in the 1600s so it definitely has the old historic feel and it's very dimly lit inside. There are several selections of beer and classic dishes like fish and chips. If you're at the castle, definitely stop in for a drink.

Jeff J.

Yelp
Authentic pub setting with great food. It is next to Bunratty Castle and Village. Should have at least one meal, there. As busy as it is, they have great service. GO!!

Dean J.

Yelp
Enjoyed the Seafood chowder and muscles to start. We both had the lamb shank and it was cooked nicely. The fresh veggies were tasty and the reduction sauce had deep, rich flavors. Desert was a nice toffee cake with cream and Carmel sauce. The Guinness started the meal off perfectly.

Sheila S.

Yelp
Very cute old style Irish bar and restaurant We had soup and stout The Atlantic Chowder was amazing as was the potato and leek

Rosalie Y.

Yelp
Such an Irish experience! We walked into the back bar to an old fellow and his sons singing, "King of the Road!" I joined right in and when his sons whisked him away-I called out- you'll regret it tomorrow! I grew up with an Irish father who said,"All strangers are just friends you haven't met yet!"

Rodriguez R.

Yelp
PROS: Exterior Appearance Old History CONS: Terrible service - waitress would. It split our check and said it wasn't possible Chicken goilanse was bland Burgers tasted like meatloaf Don't fall for this convenient located tourist trap

Mechelle S.

Yelp
Ok, tourists this is the place to stop on your way to Galway or Doolin or if you are headed back to Shannon airport. My husband has been to Ireland a few times and all he talked about was Durty Nelly's this or that so I was excited to stop here. It's your typical Irish bar with all kids of beers on tap with really great food. So bars tour their food as authentic but it do s. It always taste the best. We have eaten Fish n Chips all over Ireland and this by far the best we have eaten all trip. First of all the chips were cooked perfectly and were crispy. You get one large piece of Cod Fish that has the best crunchy crust so unexpected as with all others the crust would fall off the fish and did not stay crunchy. THE BEST FISH N CHIPS IS HERE AT DURTY NELLY'S. They offer seating both inside and outside but if the weather permits sit outside. It's a great experience! Also, walk across the street to the Blarney Woolen Mill to shop as it's one of the BEST Irish shops in the country. Be sure to stop by Durty Nelly's when traveling this way.

Kevin Y.

Yelp
This is a fun great local pub well known in these parts for the beer, music food and fun. Been here 3 times now in 3 days- keep ending up here but had a full dinner with a large group upstairs. Hundreds of years old and next to the castle, this is old world charm that collects police patches and fire from all over the world staples up to ceiling and walls. Always crowded, great staff, this is a fun place we walked to from the hotel and have enjoyed while in town. Dinner was fantastic with choices of a great lamb shank , fresh salmon , mussels, chowder, steaks to cheesecake , pudding apple pie and more. The food is fantastic and the atmosphere truly old Irish history. Picked up t shits for the boys and the staff is so nice it makes hanging around a blast. Great place!!

William M.

Yelp
This place dates to 1620! We stopped in for a late lunch after touring the Bunratty Castle. There were four of us- 2 men and 2 women. The men ordered Guinness and the women Irish coffee. The draughts were served cold and delicious. The coffees hot and very delicious. We all ordered the ham and cheese sandwich and vegetable soup. The food was very good. The soup was actually a purée and excellent. The servers were very good and we had a wonderful conversation with the bartender who came by for our payment. If you're a tourist and in the area stop in. It won't disappoint!

kristina h.

Yelp
Great service great food and the best Irish coffee. We split the meals because the portions were so large

Monalisa H.

Yelp
Reached here at 10 pm n Friday and the kitchen was closed. Only bar was open. They should have been clear about that on yelp where they said they are open till 12.30 AM.

John L.

Yelp
Durty Nelly's is a fine Pub and She has been greeting weary travelers since 1620, give or take a year or two. This was our tenth night in Ireland I came to believe "A Pint a Day, to Cast the Light Away." Joinning other fellow travelers I wandered (aka Sauntered over with a quickened pace) for a Late Pint. After all even the regulars were bidding Nelly A-due. She was every bit as expected, not Durty. Warm, ageless, taps in waiting, and a fine cook, She be. We sat outside, talked of our travels, and watched the Days glow slip away. Just as any Pint at a Pub should be. None more enchanting than Durty Nelly's in Bunratty.

Stephanie V.

Yelp
Popular location. They really bust their behinds to accommodate the masses as fast as they can. You don't see your server as often as you would like, but that's because they are very, very busy. The Coke tasted like Diet, but it wasn't, because diet wasn't an option. Very small glasses. Surprisingly good lasagna. The steak sandwich was good, too. The fish and chips were also good. Due to time constraints being on a tour, we were rushed once we finally received our food and didn't get to fully enjoy our time. I would go back!

Stu K.

Yelp
Went there for dinner. My wife had sea bass, my daughter-in-law had a chicken dish, my son had steamed mussels. I am not a meal person, I'm a sandwich guy. I ordered a Corned Beef on Panini, with a side of onion rings, from their bar menu. Everyone raved about their choices. Personally, my sandwich was outstanding and the onion rings were to die for. Our waitress was the best, didn't interrupt our meal, kept the water pitcher full, and showed up as we finished, to take our dessert order. A most enjoyable dining experience !!!

Rhonda M.

Yelp
Pints were good. Service was good. Food is just ok. The fish was greasy the chips tasted like most others we have tried the last 10 days.

Terri S.

Yelp
When in Ireland, you MUST visit the Bunratty castle, so you MUST stop at Durty Nelly's! Luckily we had friends that worked here in the past, so Durty Nelly's came HIGHLY recommended, to no surprise or let down! We took a taxi in from Shannon, had dinner, drinks, and one of the best nights of our holiday! The staff is friendly and work very hard squeezing between customers to get to and from while carrying food or drinks....full and empty. Be patience with them...it gets crowded! The place gets busy, crowded,...sitting, standing,... outside, inside....everyone chatting, drinking, laughing, and enjoying the night. We had dinner and drinks...Smoked Salmon on Brown Bread and a side salad with a side of seasoned fresh veggies. The food is A. fresh! B. delish! C. big portions! I was drinking Rockshore Lager (brewed by Guinness) and he was sampling the whiskeys...when in Rome! :) His Smoked Salmon on Brown bread was enough for 2 people, but he managed to almost eat it all. Piled high with salmon topped with capers and a nice size salad. My side salad and veggies were fresh, delish, and exactly what I needed at that point. This big beautiful salad was full of lettuce, cukes, tomatoes, radish, cabbage, carrots, and topped with seeds....amazing! The side of veggies had carrots, peas, and broccoli...delish! As we sat and drank after dinner, we met some great locals, and other fellow tourist. Conversations flow easy here as everyone is on same page...holiday, fun, beer, happiness! Cheers Durty Nelly's for such a great night!

Rebecca O.

Yelp
We stopped in on a blustery day for a warm up. I don't know if I was really cold and weary. But, this was the best Baileys and Irish coffee my husband and I had in a long time. Our 7 year old had hot cocoa and he was pleased. They had a nice food menu. However, we had reservations later in Shannon.

Kelly T.

Yelp
Such a wonder experience. Great atmosphere, friendly staff and traditional menu. Highly recommended

Sej R.

Yelp
This place has a great atmosphere, wings and food were great. Highly recommend. ICE Phoenix SRT patch on top of main front bar.

JJ S.

Yelp
A great place to come grab a drink and have a low key dinner! Reminded me of Shenanigans with lots of picture frames and decors all over. The oyster is, comparatively, not as fresh (€12). Durty Nelly's wings are decent-- meaty, juicy wings, not a lot of flavors. The lamb shank is definitely a star of the menu- served with broccoli, carrots and mashed potatoes Great staff and intimate setting. You can certainly have a good conversation with your buddies.

Johnathan S.

Yelp
Always good food. And good Irish coffee of other adult beverages. Established in 1620, is been in operation along time.

Ralph F.

Yelp
This one Of my favorite pubs on our trip. The staff was ver friendly and the food was awesome. Large portion and very fair

Nancy A.

Yelp
[October 2018].Delicious food with large portions! Great atmosphere! Right across the street from Bunratty Castle. Lots of history. Indoor and outdoor seating. Definitely recommend!

Eileen M.

Yelp
My husband and I spent 12 days traveling all through Ireland. We stayed in 5 star hotels and ate in 5 star restaurants. However, no restaurant compared to Durty Nelly's. My soup and salmon salad were incredible and the French wine spectacular. Looking forward to our next visit to Ireland. Durty Nelly's is a must.

Patricia T.

Yelp
Great place to eat lunch after you're visited Bunratty Castle. I had an amazing black bean burger and a refreshing hard cider. Angela, our server was exceptionally warm & friendly. The bar area near the entrance has license plates posted from all over the world. We found quite a few from cities in our home state of NJ.

Chris B.

Yelp
Best pub I've been too. Very old with much history to share. Packed and always have the Irish best alcohol

Jen L.

Yelp
Visited April 2015: "Oldest Bar in Ireland" We were told to go to this place by a friend who enjoyed it, and told use all about the limericks around the bar So we decided to make a stop there for lunch. They had a multitude of badges from around the world from first responders. For instance, we saw Chicago Police, Lancaster, etc. We were looking for the limericks we were told about but could not locate them in the restaurant, or bathroom. I jumped on the internet to see if I could obtain some information, and learned that the bar has a 400 year old history and it was a location that the nearby castle guards went to for a few beers. We took a few photos of the bar, the castle, and the nearby river before heading off.

Ray S.

Yelp
what else can you say - Iconic location and reputation. Our food was excellent, waitress friendly and quick, pint was tasty and we could get a wee bit of a sample before purchasing a whole pint. Highly recommend this place after a castle tour - enjoy a pint outside if the weather allows it. we had incredible weather and people crowded the outdoor tables while enjoying their pint!

Katie B.

Yelp
Durty Nelly's provided my first meal in Ireland. Fresh off the plane, exhausted, and hungry, I couldn't have picked a better spot to start the journey. Although it took a minute before realizing the way most local pubs and restaurants work (seating = find an open chair and plop down and ordering = sidle up to the bar and tell them what you want), once we figured it out we were good to go. I thought I had had fish n' chips before - really, I did. Apparently, nothing quite compares to the massive filet of cod served atop golden fries that you'll find in Ireland. Oh my. Wash it down with a pint of Bulmer's and you'll be grinning for the rest of the afternoon. It was easy to see why this original establishment has spawned pubs in the States - the food is great, the atmosphere is casual and friendly, and it has a definitive cool vibe. I also thought it was awesome to see the wall covered with news clippings and other memorabilia from September 11th. The framed NYFD uniform was really something special. If I'm ever lucky enough to find myself in Bunratty again, I will certainly stop in for a bite and a Bulmer's.

Dude N.

Yelp
The best dinner we had so far in Ireland. Husband had the Irish filet steak and I did the lamb shank. We had chicken pate and mussels for starters and both were outstanding. The lamb shank was incredible but the steak was ordered medium rare and came medium and was not as tender as expected. The service was great our waiter was attentive and he was very available. Such a great old pub and upstairs we listened to a meatloaf cover it was awesome!

Steve G.

Yelp
I enjoyed my visit to historic Durty Nelly's after my tour of the nearby castle. I had a simple sandwich and tomato soup and it was excellent. The bartender was very friendly and made beer recommendations when I was trying to decide. I walked around and love the way it was set up--each room has its own unique personality. Definitely a fun plan to visit.

Cathy R.

Yelp
Durty Nelly's was wonderful - spent several days in Bunratty and we kept going back to Nelly's! Great food, a perfect pint and the bartenders and waitresses were friendly and accommodating! Bought a T-shirt (sometimes you just have to do the tourist thing)! The view of Bunratty Castle was overwhelmingly awesome! Will definitely go back.

AnonChefX X.

Yelp
Awesome experience here! Great pub that's been around for longer than the founding of the US. Great food for the location, decent beer selection and Irish whiskeys. If you go to Ireland. You must take a trip to the Bunratty Castle area and give this place a check.

George M.

Yelp
Very good not too touristy spot Great food nice beer selection Cozy atmosphere with attentive servers Great place to unwind from a days travel .

John G.

Yelp
Must stop in for a pint in the shadow of Bunratty Castle. We arrived for a late dinner in the pub section and the food was good pub grub - fish and chips and lamb shank and were all tasty. Served with a perfect pint of Guinness and topped off with decent desserts and Irish Coffee! I would eat in the pub section again, we were pleased with food and service. It's not a bad place to down a few pints too!

Dwain C.

Yelp
I was at Durty Nelly's Pub in Bunratty, Ireland on 6/3/2015. It was my 1st time there. I'd actually seen pictures of the place in a video on Ireland which I used to show my World History students. It's located right across from Bunratty Castle. Plus, I took photos.

Ryan C.

Yelp
After an afternoon exploring the castle grounds Durty Nelly's was just the right call! We enjoyed a very good meal and a few pints! A must stop on you way through town

Allen T.

Yelp
Very very nice pub. Wings are great. Very friendly services. Of course, check out all the Irish beer!!!

Gay O.

Yelp
A buzzy place in an iconic tourist destination Bunratty where the tourists pour in for the Bunratty Castle experience . Last time here we enjoyed live music. Today a selection of music over the speaker. Drank the Guiness, tried the white wine and had a bad latte. Chippies good. Just a terrific Irish vibe.