“Pints tonight?” These are the only words anybody wants to hear when the weather is fine. There is nothing better than enjoying a drink in the sunshine after a day of hard work. What else are we expected to do in weather like this? Sunny days can be few and far between, so we have to act fast. People want to relax, take in the sun, have some pints, and enjoy the gorgeous views while the sun is high in the sky. To save you some time I have compiled a list of Cork’s best spots for a drink in the good weather.
Of course, on sunny days like these Annie Mac’s is the obvious choice. A classic beer garden, one of Cork’s finest. Located on Glasheen Road, you will find a mix of students, and regular patrons in their vast outdoor seating area. If you’re looking for conversation, a bubbling atmosphere, and a proper pint Annie Mac’s is for you. When you go to Annie Mac’s you are transported, no matter where you are from it becomes your local pub., It’s where you want to go for long meaningful chats with friends and strangers. Take a walk around the UCC area and you’ll find a gorgeous mixture of old Cork and new Cork living in harmony.
Another Cork City institution is Deep South on the Grand Parade. Pull up a chair and watch the hustle and bustle of the city. The location is ideal for meeting pals after work, or a few drinks before heading to Virgin Media Park for a concert. This is the perfect spot for fans of city-living, you feel like you’re becoming a part of the city itself. Deep South is the perfect spot for people watching. People are always rushing past so quickly. You can play games, guess what their jobs are, and why they’re in such a hurry.
For a view of the water, try The Speckled Door in Garrettstown. Just across from the Old Head Bay Beach this pub has breathtaking scenery. Not as busy as the pubs in Kinsale, The Speckled Door is ideal for a calm cosy pint and an incredible bite to eat. The Speckled Door is known for their seafood menu, and their generous portions that leave you feeling warm inside. When you visit The Speckled Door it feels like you are discovering a whole new Ireland, something untouched by the hectic tourists. Sit outside and marvel at the magnificent Irish coast, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the horses who live in the next field. Having a pint so close to nature feels intimate and special, like nothing you’ve experienced before.
For another compelling coastal pint, try O’Sullivans in Crookhaven. Known as the most southerly pint in Ireland, O’Sullivans has fantastic views of the harbour. Almost 100 years old, O’Sullivans know how to create the perfect ambience for an evening in the sun. For an idyllic evening, grab some food, some drinks, and watch the sun set over the harbour.
The Merchant is a new establishment, in a familiar spot. Old Electric has been renovated and beautified into the new The Merchant. Get reacquainted with an old familiar spot, and perhaps meet some new faces. This South Mall situated bar has live music, pints, and more to offer with a fantastic view of the Lee. This city centre location is ideal for any concert-goers looking to experience more of Cork City has to offer.
A visit to Blackrock’s Pierhead on a sunny day is an essential. With epic views of Cork Harbour, Pierhead gives you an opportunity to see Cork like you haven’t seen it before. Cobblestone streets make you feel like you’ve been transported to Paris or Rome. You can find new appreciation for Cork when you visit places like the Pierhead in the sun. You are literally seeing things in a new light. Close to the city, you can walk to Pierhead in no time, and your dog can come too! Take your pints and cocktails and sit right along the waterfront in Blackrock. You won’t regret it.
Likewise, the Blackbird in Ballycotton is a lovely dog-friendly pub. Check out how the modern beer garden is contrasted with the classic pub interior, giving you the perfect mix of cosy Irish pubs and sleek modern bars. It feels like you could be anywhere in the world. Just around the corner from the pier and the cliff walk you can spend the whole evening surrounded by picturesque scenery. Definitely Instagram worthy. Stop into the Blackbird for a drink, and some live music.
For those who appreciate a well curated garden, have a look at the Glandore Inn. As you enjoy some pints and some fresh seafood, you can watch the boats in the water. The stunning Glandore Gardens are located directly opposite the pub. Roam freely in the gardens, feel the sun on your skin, and finish with a refreshment in Glandore Inn. There is so much character in this seaside village, and in pubs like this you really feel it.
If you’re not a drinker, why not try Saor in Marina Market? A dedicated alcohol-free bar, so everybody can feel included. Marina Market is also a more family-friendly option for those with young children. Have your dinner and mocktails outside and watch the business across the water. Saor is a great option if you want to bring pets, or children, or just try something new.
Right by the waterfront in Crosshaven is Cronin’s pub. Just oozing with old Irish charm and history, Cronin’s is a terrific spot for a sunny day. Ample outdoor seating means you can have dinner and drinks outside, making sure to soak up every ray of sun. Take a stroll along the water, have a look in the shop windows, and pretend you are on holiday.
The Castle in Glanmire is another epic spot. With live music every weekend, what more could you want? The Castle is another perfect example of the crossover from old Irish pubs to modern social hubs. There’s loads of outdoor seating for a drink in the sun. They have everything you could want, music, comedy, sports, and a food truck. Not far from the city-centre, experiencing the buzz in The Castle is a quintessential Cork experience.
Drinks on a sunny day are always a great shout. Grab your friends, your family, or your pets and get outside. It’s not often a heat like this descends upon Cork, so we have to make the most of what we get. Wherever you go, do not forget the suncream!
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