We will be travelling from Bandon (County Cork) to Oughterard (County Galway). We think a stay over in Bunratty may be an option for us as we want to visit the castle and the Folk Park during thr day. We would love to experience a cultural evening that night. It need not really be a show, but something to remember. I now have second thoughts about Doolin. perhaps visit Bunratty during the day and then leave for Doolin where there may be a venue with Irish music?
Posted by
Eugene, Oregon...Formerly Ventura, CA
2261 posts
Hi Erna, I can't speak for other locations, but we had a very nice dinner and heard great music at Gus O'Connors Pub in Doolin last year. Honestly, the food was almost too much for us, and a good value too. There were five or six musicians gathered around a table entertaining the nearly full house-and this was on a Wednesday night. Lots of fun. Have a great trip.
Posted by
Orinda, California, United States
286 posts
Second that response. We talk about our nights in the same pub all the time. You really feel part of the community. The songs and tales are timeless; food is good and if you book a B&B up the hill you can walk home after drinking.
We stayed at Kate's Place and enjoyed the fun at the pub all 3 nights. Get there early for dinner so you can get a table in the main room.
Posted by
San Jose, CA
1994 posts
I did the evening entertainment at Bunratty and then visited the next day, mostly because the person I was with wanted to do it. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed the evening, as well as the visit the next day to the folk park. It was a very pleasant evening of entertainment, and nice way to see the castle. I also found the food to be surprisingly good.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
295 posts
I truly enjoyed Bunratty folk park. I also had a blast at the medieval banquet. I wasn't sure if I would like it since its a little commercial. But I'm glad I did it. Its sometime everyone should do once. You will have so many chances to enjoy local music but when will have a chance to attend a banquet.
Posted by
12 posts
On our recent trip, I had hoped to hear some live traditional Irish music in a pub, but it never came to be. Guess I'll have to plan that for the next trip! We did attend the Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. I wondered if it might be too "touristy", but was pleased with the experience. The castle experience, coupled with the banquet and the musical entertainment made for a lovely evening. I can't comment on the Folk Park. I would suggest if you are thinking of doing this, to book it early because the 5:00 pm show is quick to sell out. Enjoy your trip!