The Best Pubs in County Clare According to You
County Clare has long been one of Ireland’s most celebrated counties for traditional pub culture. From the wild Atlantic coastline to the heart of the Burren, Clare’s pubs are places where music fills the air, pints are poured with care, and strangers become friends before the night is through. It’s no surprise, then, that when the votes started rolling in for the national pub poll, Clare made its presence felt in a big way.
🍺 Clare Pub Poll — Latest Standings
Cast your vote in Ireland’s biggest pub poll and help decide which County Clare pub takes the crown. Takes 30 seconds. Voting is open now — check the leaderboard for the latest standings.
Vote for your favourite County Clare pub in Ireland’s biggest pub poll.
With nearly 400 votes cast so far across the entire country, three County Clare pubs have already climbed into the top ten in Ireland. All three are found in the legendary village of Doolin — a place that practically breathes traditional Irish music. Let’s take a closer look at each one and find out why voters are backing them so strongly — and for the story of how each contender first made the leaderboard, see our original round-up of Clare’s pub poll contenders.
Gus O’Connor’s, Fisher Street, Doolin
Sitting proudly at number four in all of Ireland, Gus O’Connor’s has earned 27 votes and shows no signs of slowing down. This iconic pub has been welcoming visitors since 1832, making it one of the oldest and most beloved watering holes on the west coast. Step inside and you’ll find low ceilings, stone walls, and the kind of atmosphere that feels like it’s been perfected over generations. Whether you’re there for a quiet afternoon pint or an evening of lively traditional music, Gus O’Connor’s delivers something truly special — the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left Doolin behind.
McGann’s Pub, Doolin
Currently ranked number six in Ireland’s biggest pub poll with 18 votes, McGann’s is another Doolin gem that locals and visitors alike hold dear. Known for its superb traditional music sessions, McGann’s has a warmth and authenticity that can’t be manufactured. The pub has a wonderfully lived-in feel, with memorabilia on the walls, a welcoming bar, and the kind of craic that makes you want to cancel your plans and stay for another round. If you’re looking for a pub where the music is world-class and the welcome is genuine, McGann’s is the place to be.
☘️ Enjoying this? 64,000+ Ireland lovers get stories like this every week. Subscribe free →
McDermott’s Pub, Doolin
Completing Doolin’s remarkable hat-trick in the top ten, McDermott’s sits at number eight nationally with 15 votes. Often considered the heart and soul of Doolin’s famous music scene, McDermott’s has been a gathering place for musicians and music lovers for decades. The sessions here are legendary — raw, unpolished, and utterly captivating. The pub itself is cosy and unpretentious, the sort of place where you pull up a stool, order a pint of stout, and let the music wash over you. It’s no wonder that so many people have cast their vote for McDermott’s as one of the finest pubs in the country.
What makes Doolin’s showing in this poll so remarkable is that all three pubs sit within a stone’s throw of each other, yet each one offers its own distinct character and charm. Together, they’ve helped put this small Clare village on the map as one of Ireland’s greatest pub destinations. With the poll still live and votes continuing to pour in, there’s every chance these rankings could shift — so if you’ve got a favourite Clare pub that deserves recognition, now is the time to make your voice heard. Cast your vote in Ireland’s biggest pub poll and help decide which pub comes out on top.
☘️ Join 64,000+ Ireland Lovers
Every Friday, get Ireland’s hidden gems, local secrets, and travel inspiration — the kind you won’t find in any guidebook.
Subscribe free — enter your email:
Free forever · One email per week · Unsubscribe anytime
Tours & experiences you might love
Powered by Viator. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!