Dublin Mountain Pub Tour ( small group Pub Crawl max 15 people)

If you’re looking to step outside the usual tourist spots and explore Ireland’s legendary pub scene in a more intimate setting, the Dublin Mountain Pub Tour is a fantastic choice. Priced at around $80, this five-hour experience takes you beyond Dublin’s city center into the lush, rolling landscapes of the Dublin Mountains, visiting three local pubs with a maximum of 15 fellow travelers. The highlight? Enjoying live Irish music, sampling craft beers and whiskey, all while soaking in the stunning scenery and engaging with friendly locals.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances scenic drives and authentic pub experiences. You get the chance to see the countryside in comfort, thanks to air-conditioned transport, and then step into some of the most charming, less touristy pubs around. Plus, the small group size ensures a personal touch—more conversation, more fun, and a real chance to connect with fellow travelers. That said, keep in mind that alcoholic beverages and food are at your own expense, so it’s wise to eat beforehand or bring some cash for snacks and drinks.

This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Irish pub life, especially if you appreciate good stories, lively music, and scenic views. It’s a great outing for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable, laid-back evening filled with local flavor. If you love engaging guides and discovering hidden gems, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic Irish Pubs: Visit three countryside pubs with live music and friendly locals.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy the views of Dublin Mountains on a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures personal attention and more interaction.
• Local Drinks & Music: Sip craft beers, whiskey, and listen to traditional Irish tunes.
• Informative Guides: Guides like Shane make the experience lively and engaging.
• Flexible & Convenient: 6:00 pm start, ending back at your meeting point, perfect for an evening out.

The Basics
This five-hour tour, offered at around $80 per person, promises a relaxed journey into rural Irish pub culture. It runs from 6:00 pm starting at Cork Hill in Dublin, with transportation included—an air-conditioned vehicle that makes it easy to enjoy the scenery without tiring. The tour is designed for groups no larger than 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate, friendly environment. It’s booked roughly 48 days in advance, showing how popular this experience is among visitors seeking something genuine and off the beaten path.

What’s Included & What’s Not
For the price, you get fully guided visits to three different pubs in the Dublin Mountains, with live Irish music to set the tone. The tour also includes transportation and a small-group atmosphere. However, alcoholic beverages and dinner are not included—so plan to bring some cash or eat beforehand, especially since some reviews mention that the pubs serve excellent drinks and hearty pub food.

How the Tour Works
You’ll start in Dublin city at Cork Hill, then embark on a scenic drive through lush hills and countryside, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Each pub stop offers a unique vibe—from the scenic Merry Ploughboys Irish Night at the foothills of the mountains to the lively Blue Light Pub, and finally, the iconic Johnnie Fox’s at the top of the mountains. Your guide, Shane, and others like him, are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make everyone feel at home.

Stop 1: Merry Ploughboys Irish Night
Set in a stunning location at the foothills of the Dublin Mountains, this pub is known for its scenic setting and authentic Irish atmosphere. While the tour doesn’t include the Irish Night Show, you’ll visit the main bar of the pub, where the ambiance is warm, lively, and filled with local character. One review highlights that Shane, the guide, helps visitors connect with the locals, turning a typical pub visit into a special, memorable moment.

Stop 2: The Blue Light Pub
The second stop takes you further into rural Ireland, away from city crowds. This pub boasts plenty of local beverages, including craft beers and whiskey, and offers the chance to hear traditional Irish music. The scenery here is unforgettable, with panoramic views of the countryside. Reviewers mention the “unforgettable scenery” and the “great atmosphere,” making this a favorite for those who love authentic, less commercialized pubs.

Stop 3: Johnnie Fox’s
Perched at the top of the Dublin Mountains, Johnnie Fox’s is arguably the highlight—Ireland’s highest pub in terms of elevation. It’s famed for its warm hospitality, live music, and great drinks. Many travelers say this pub alone makes the tour worth it—something to savor at the end of a scenic drive. One reviewer even notes they enjoyed the best apple pie of their lives here, pairing it perfectly with a pint or a whiskey.

A major draw of this tour is the live Irish music at the last pub, which adds a festive, genuinely Irish touch to the experience. The guide Shane and others help create a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike. Several reviews mention how guides like Shane foster a sense of community, making it more than just a pub crawl.

Authentic interactions with local pub owners and the chance to chat with Irish patrons are among the highlights, providing insights that a typical city pub might not offer. The emphasis on storytelling, music, and local drinks creates a well-rounded, immersive evening.

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the countryside drive pleasant and hassle-free. The small-group setting ensures you don’t feel lost in a crowd—more chances to chat and ask questions. The limited group size (max 15) is a big plus for those who dislike large, impersonal tours.

Timing-wise, the tour starts in the evening, making it ideal for those wanting a relaxed night out or an alternative to city nightlife. The end point is the same as the start, simplifying logistics.

At $80, this tour offers good value for a scenic, cultural experience with local guides and authentic pubs. Compared to typical city pub tours, the focus on rural pubs and scenic views sets it apart. You’re paying for not just drinks, but also transportation, music, and local stories—elements that elevate the experience beyond just a night out. Many reviews rave about Shane’s knowledge and fun personality, which adds significant value.

If you’re someone who enjoys local culture, music, and scenic views, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for solo travelers or small groups who want a more personal experience. It’s also a good choice if you’re tired of busy city pubs and want to explore Ireland’s mountain pubs with friendly guides and authentic atmosphere. Food and drinks at the pubs are at your own expense, so plan accordingly.

The Dublin Mountain Pub Tour offers a delightful mix of scenic driving, authentic Irish pubs, and live music—delivered in a cozy, small-group setting. It’s an excellent way to see a different side of Ireland, one filled with local charm and breathtaking landscapes. Guides like Shane make the experience engaging, personable, and fun, turning a simple pub visit into a memorable evening.

While it’s not a pub crawl with all drinks included, the authentic atmosphere, stunning views, and personal interactions create a value-packed experience that’s worth every euro. Whether you’re a single traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a relaxed, genuine taste of Ireland’s best rural pubs.

Who’s it best for?

This tour suits those seeking authentic Irish pub experiences outside Dublin, with an interest in music, scenery, and local culture. It’s ideal if you want a personalized, less touristy outing that combines scenic beauty with friendly conversation and great local drinks.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but note that alcoholic beverages are at your own expense, so minors should be aware.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, making it small enough for a personal experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, guided visits to three pubs, and live Irish music. Drinks and food are not included.

Can I bring my own drinks?
The tour doesn’t specify restrictions, but it’s best to purchase drinks at the pubs during your visit.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
You can still enjoy the scenery and live music; just remember that drinks are at your own expense.

How long is each pub stop?
Stops vary from approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the atmosphere and music.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and suitable for a relaxed countryside drive.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
It’s best to book about 48 days in advance, as it’s quite popular and often fills up early.

This small-group pub tour in the Dublin Mountains delivers a perfect blend of scenic views, local flavor, and authentic Irish music—a genuine way to experience Ireland’s countryside and pub culture without the city crowd. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, it’s a memorable evening that highlights the warmth, humor, and traditions of Irish life.