If you’re in search of the best pubs in Waterford City (old school and traditional style pubs, that is!), there’s plenty to choose from.
It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it. We’ve trawled the city (hic!!) to find the best pubs in Waterford, and there’s some tough competition.
From the mighty J. & K. Walsh Victorian Spirit Grocer to Geoff’s, Henry Downes and more, there’s an almost endless number of brilliant bars in Waterford.
The best pubs in Waterford
The first section of this guide tackles our favourite Waterford pubs, from the mighty Phil Grimes to the brilliant Uisce Beatha.
It’s here that you’ll also find J. & K. Walsh, which is arguably one of the best pubs in Waterford if you’re looking for a pint in a proper old-school public house.
1. J. & K. Walsh Victorian Spirit Grocer
For an authentic old world atmosphere, J&K Walsh Victorian Pub and Grocers is a must-see on O’Connell Street.
Look out for the old wooden cabinets, brass scales and spice drawers, unchanged since 1899 when the place opened.
This is one of Ireland’s finest intact examples, packed with original Victorian features. Nurse a Guinness in the snug, perch on round wooden stools at the bar or order coffee through the hatch in the tea/coffee room.
You can even enjoy a pint pulled from original 1960s beer taps! This is, in my opinion, one of the best pubs in Waterford for good reason!
2. The Gingerman
More an old-fashioned tavern than a 21st century pub, The Gingerman is located on traffic-free Arundel Lane around from City Square Shopping Centre.
Behind the old shop-front facade it’s a quintessential revival of an old watering hole with low ceilings and a great atmosphere.
The Gingerman has indoor and outdoor tables for watching the world hurry by. It offers a great choice of ales and excellent pies, hot pots and Irish stew.
If you’re in search of bars in Waterford that make the perfect spot for some cosy Saturday afternoon pints with friends, you can’t go wrong here.
3. Phil Grimes
Phil Grimes (just behind the ODEON) is a Waterford institution and visitors can look forward to a timeless charm and cosy ambiance.
The pub’s interior features warm wooden panelling, packed bookshelves, and vintage decor that sparks a sense of nostalgia.
Relax by the open fire with a pint in hand, or challenge a friend to a game of pool table in the back room.
There are nooks that are perfect for a quiet chat, while the range of craft beers on tap ensures there’s something for every palate.
Related read: Check out our guide to the best things to do in Waterford (from the Greenway to the many historical sites in Waterford City)
4. Geoff’s Cafe Bar
Located on John Street in the heart of Waterford, Geoff’s Cafe Bar is a local landmark. It serves well-priced home-cooked food and drinks in a unique atmosphere.
The interior features warm, dark wood furnishings, antique decor, and cosy corners that invite you to relax and unwind.
The bar’s character shines through in its quirky mix of vintage signs and old-world knick-knacks. Enjoy a quiet pint by the stove, or soak in the lively atmosphere over a hearty meal.
Related read: Check out our guide to 13 of the best restaurants in Waterford (with something to tickle most tastebuds)
5. Henry Downes
Established in 1759, the walls of Henry Downes & Co. could tell a few tales!
This unique pub is one of the few remaining that bottle their own whiskey. It’s a little off-the-beaten-path on Thomas Street (behind Dooley’s Hotel on the Quay).
It’s been in the same family for six generations with several bars each with a distinctive character.
There’s the usual billiards and snooker plus a squash court! It opens at 5pm and doesn’t serve food…just go for the experience!
6. The Tap Room
Warm, friendly and offering great service, The Tap Room is a charming city pub brimming with character and a sense of history.
Located on Ballybricken, it’s a 10-minute walk from the Waterford Visitor Centre but well worth the legwork.
The interior features dark wood panelling and stained glass accents, creating a warm and homely atmosphere.
Cosy, upholstered benches with colourful cushions provide comfortable seating, while small, intimate tables are perfect for enjoying a quiet drink.
7. Tully’s Bar
Another timeless gem on O’Connell Street, Tully’s Bar has a traditional frontage and outdoor tables for resting your feet while sipping and supping. As well as liquid refreshment it has a fine menu of tasty dishes.
Tully’s Bar does its own special label Growler bottles of beer (that’s around two pints) and whiskey miniatures (great for take-home gifts and souvenirs).
From Whiplash Midnight Dipper to Body Riddle, it serves ridiculously named beers from Irish craft breweries all on tap for real ale aficionados.
8. The Three Shippes
The Three Shippes is a traditional Irish pub on William Street in the heart of Waterford City
Darkwood interiors in the aptly named Brig Bar make it an inviting place to chill and relax, make new friends or just enjoy a pint or two.
The interior is marked by rich woodwork, with an impressive bar area lined with an array of spirits, all backed by ornate glass panels that add a touch of elegance.
High ceilings and warm lighting create a spacious yet cosy atmosphere, perfect for a night out. The mezzanine level overlooks the main bar, offering additional seating and a great view of the bustling scene below.
9. Davy Mac’s Bar
How about a traditional Irish pub with a bit of a modern twist?
Located on John’s Avenue, on the outside, Davy Mac’s Bar looks like any traditional Irish cottage but inside it’s a lovely old tavern.
Sit by the old stove, admire the antique beer taps and the memorabilia covering the walls.
There’s even an old cash register to ring up your orders! Gin cocktails are the house speciality and they have 70 gins to choose from.
10. Itty Bittys Bar
Itty Bittys is a gorgeous pub and cocktail bar on Bank Lane, off The Mall.
Open for dinner and light bites it’s a special place to grab a cocktail and socialise.
There’s an upstairs bar and DJ for disco lovers while diners and drinkers can be found on the famous Roof Terrace – arguably the sunniest spot in the city!
What Waterford pubs have we missed?
I’m sure we’ve unintentionally missed out on some great bars in Waterford in the guide above. Have a place you’d like to recommend?
Let us know in the comments section below and we’ll check it out! Cheers!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.