Sip a perfectly made Irish Coffee while uncovering the rich history of Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s oldest pub, located in Athlone. This half-hour talk offers engaging stories about the pub’s evolution and local traditions in a lively setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
No physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Sean's Bar dates back to 900 AD, with archaeological evidence showing the pub's continuous operation through centuries of social and political change.
Conservation
Sean’s Bar supports local sourcing and sustainable practices, contributing to preserving Ireland’s cultural and environmental heritage.
Sean's Bar, Ireland's Oldest Pub
Sip a perfectly made Irish Coffee while uncovering the rich history of Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s oldest pub, located in Athlone. This half-hour talk offers engaging stories about the pub’s evolution and local traditions in a lively setting.
Sean's Bar, Ireland's Oldest Pub, is a historic pub located in Athlone, County Westmeath. The establishment presents guided whiskey tastings, a Guinness pouring experience, Irish Coffee history talks, and an Irish Coffee masterclass. With roots that trace back over 1300 years, Sean's Bar combines living heritage with curated beverage experiences tailored to visitors and locals who appreciate Irish spirits and pub culture.
The venue operates as both a welcoming public house and an educational destination, offering small-group sessions that focus on taste, technique, and storytelling. Each experience at Sean's Bar is led by knowledgeable staff who explain the history and production of Irish whiskey, the traditions of pouring a proper pint, and the craft behind an authentic Irish Coffee. Participants learn practical skills—such as pouring technique and drink assembly—while tasting regional whiskey expressions and beers.
The whiskey tasting presents context about Uisce Beatha and Ireland's distilling heritage; the Guinness session covers beer history and pouring standards; the Irish Coffee offerings combine a historical narrative with hands-on practice. Sean's Bar emphasizes authenticity and tangible learning. The programming, delivered on-site in Athlone, aims to create memorable moments through sensory-led demonstrations and carefully guided tastings. Visitors can expect a blend of history, hospitality, and practical skill-building, making Sean's Bar a trusted choice for travelers seeking cultural depth and genuine Irish beverage experiences. Bookings are available on site and via third-party tour platforms; groups and individual visitors are accommodated with options suitable for both novices and experienced enthusiasts and local patrons throughout the year.
Location
Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Located in Athlone
Heritage
1300+ years
Tracing back over 1300 years
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Whiskey, beer, coffee sessions
Specialties
Whiskey & Irish Coffee
Guided tastings and masterclasses
Choose a whiskey tasting, Guinness pouring session, or Irish Coffee masterclass and secure a spot at Sean's Bar, Ireland's Oldest Pub.
Arrive Early
Seats fill up quickly—plan to arrive 10 minutes before the talk to secure a good spot.
Age Restriction
This experience is for adults only due to the alcohol service.
Accessibility
Check accessibility options in advance if mobility is a concern, as the pub’s historic structure may have limited adaptions.
Sample the Baileys Coffee
If Irish Coffee isn’t your preference, the Baileys Coffee offers a flavorful alternative worth trying.
Light Jacket
Keeps you comfortable walking to and from the pub during cooler evenings.
fall
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying outdoor activities around Athlone before or after your visit.
Comfortable Footwear
Essential for navigating cobblestone streets and unpaved trails in Athlone’s town center.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the historic charm of Sean’s Bar and the lively pub scenes.