Frequently Asked Questions

Rory Gallagher Festival

A big annual event in Ballyshannon, that happens on the last bank holiday in May. More than 20,000 people attend each year. Booking and ticketing starts well in advance.

All the pubs have live events and are packed to the gills. Plan wisely. For more information, see the event site.

Credit Cards

The majority of bars in the town have card readers, but margins are slim for pubs. Grab some cash locally and Bank of Ireland and AIB downtown. Your publican will thank you!

Trad Music and Performances

If you’re looking for traditional Irish music, plan ahead. If you’re expecting impromptu sessions, you won’t find them in most places. Check the calendar for each pub. If there is a festival, your chances improve greatly.

The Vibe

Every pub has its own personality. You’ll find a mix of different styles of pubs: country, historic, music, and even shop. There isn’t a fake one in the lot, and every pub is family owned. Walk around and see what suits you.

What about The Thatch?

Dorrian’s Hotel owns the Thatch Pub, and it’s mostly open when the hotel has a tour bus in. You can inquire at the hotel.

Food in the Pubs?

None of the pubs offer full menus (other than an assortment of crisps) but Dicey’s does a nice pizza out back on the weekends.

Most of the pubs will let you bring in takeaway, but it pays to ask.

• Top Pizza
• Tigerceramics Cafe
• Cafe Lally
• Apache Pizza
• Trennari
• Chutney Villa Indian Takeaway
• Wee Bakery Coffee Shop
• Golden Dragon
• Shamrock Chinese Restaurant

Dogs in the Pubs?

Many of the pubs in Ballyshannon are dog-friendly, and well-behaved dogs are usually welcome. Checking in on entering is your best bet.