We'll be hitting Ireland and Scotland this summer with our one year old and four year old in tow. I would love to hit a pub or two for meals or some music. What's the usual custom as to kids in pubs? Is it okay or frowned upon?
Thanks
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
Most of the pubs in Ireland that I'm familiar with have a time in the evening past which kids are no longer welcome. I wasn't traveling with kids the last two times, so I don't recall it exactly -- maybe 8:00 pm?
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
Yep, kids have to be gone by 8:00 to 10:00, depending on the Pub. One of you go inside and ask the bartender before you sit down. Some pubs do not allow children at all. Some, like JD Wetherspoon-which is a chain of pubs- allow children and have a children's menu, plus they have two-fer meals in the early evenings.
Posted by
dallas, tx, usa
1358 posts
I have found pubs the world over to be just like a family restaurant in the early evening. Later the heavy drinkers take over and you will want to be gone.
John is right. Ask before you enter. Each will have different rules. But most will welcome you.
Posted by
Atlanta
1358 posts
Or check with who you're staying with, if it's a B&B. They'll know the town and can steer you in (hopefully) the right direction.
Posted by
Fredericksburg, TX, USA
74 posts
You need to get the Good Pub Guide www.goodguides.com This not only lists great atmospheric and historic pubs, it tells which ones "welcome" children, "allow" children, or do not allow children. Many of the listed pubs have play areas or family rooms with toys. Another good site to look for nice pubs allowing children is the CAMRA website www.camra.org.uk We try to sit outside if possible, and always ask on entering where the family room or area is located. On one memorable 2 week family trip we had all of our evening meals in pubs with 4 children ages 1 to 14, so it's definitely doable.