While many UK cities have an Irish community, others are Irish through and through. It’s estimated that 75% of Liverpool’s population has Irish roots, largely due to the 1.3 million Irish people who settled or passed through here during the potato famine.
You can hear these Emerald Isle roots in the Scouse accent and in the traditional music that fills Liverpool’s pubs and bars at night. Every year on 17 March, Liverpool’s Irish connections are more visible (and audible) than ever with one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the UK.
This year looks set to be an even bigger day out than usual as it coincides with the Manchester United vs Liverpool FA Cup Quarter Final. Here we’ve picked five favourite Irish bars and pubs in Liverpool city centre to raise a pint in, watch the match, and celebrate St Paddy. (Get there early doors, it’s going to be busy).
-
Liverpool City CentreDanny Mac’s Tavern
More detailsThis narrow, cosy corner pub is one of many Irish drinking dens along Renshaw Street. With its dark wood furnishings, worn leather seating, and blue-green walls, it feels like a calm, chilled hideaway during the week, somewhere you can nurse a pint while watching the racing.
-
Liverpool City CentreFitzgerald’s Irish Bar
More detailsThe smaller, sister bar to Lanigans on Ranelagh Street, Fitzgerald’s Irish Bar has an authentic feel and a friendly atmosphere. There’s live music every night and they show the sport on the multiple screens. Head here to watch everything from GAA to MMA (and look out for the signed portrait of Meatball Molly McCann on the wall while you’re there).
-
Liverpool City CentreLanigans Irish Bar
More detailsJust by Liverpool Central on a strip of Irish pubs on Ranelagh Street, you’ll find Lanigans Irish Bar. It’s a lively, well-frequented place that’s a favourite with sports fans thanks to the huge cinema-sized screen that spans the back wall.
-
Liverpool City CentreMcCooley’s Concert Square
More detailsThis cavernous tavern on Concert Square fills up fast on weekends and match days. But there’s big screens throughout so even when it’s rammed, it’s not hard to get a good view of the sports action, and with three separate bars, getting served isn’t a trial either.
-
Liverpool City CentrePogue Mahone Liverpool
More detailsSituated on the booze-soaked Seel Street, Pogue Mahones is a long-standing, much-loved spot for Saturday night shenanigans (or any night for that matter).
