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The Main Bar - Customer Favourite Pub Clare

Traditional Bar in Bunratty, Co.Clare

The Main Bar — A Traditional Pub in Clare

Step through the door of The Main Bar and you’re stepping into one of the oldest and most loved pubs in County Clare. Low beams, open fires, and walls thick with history set the scene for a pint, a chat, and the kind of welcome Clare is known for. It’s also where most of our visitors choose to sit down for food in Bunratty, with a menu of pub classics and local favourites served right where you’re having your drink.

A Pub in Clare, Right in the Heart of Bunratty

If you’re looking for a pub in Clare, the Main Bar is it. We’re located in Bunratty village, just beside Bunratty Castle and within easy reach of Shannon Airport, a popular stop for anyone exploring the Wild Atlantic Way or touring the Clare coast.

On tap and behind the bar, you’ll find a full range of draught beers, ciders, stouts, and lagers, along with a good selection of spirits, wines, and an extensive cocktail menu. Whether you’re after a pint of Guinness by the fire or something from our cocktail list, the bar staff will look after you.

Opening Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 11:30pm
  • Friday & Saturday: 12pm – 12:30am
  • Sunday: 12pm – 11pm
  • Bar food served daily, 12pm – 9:30pm

Hours can vary around holidays and events, so it’s worth checking our Opening Hours page before you travel.

 See what’s coming up on our Live Music page. 

Food in Bunratty: Lunch and Dinner in the Main Bar

The Main Bar isn’t just for drinks.. it’s also where we seat guests who visit for food in Bunratty, and it’s been a favourite lunch and dinner spot in the village for generations.

We serve a lunch and a bar menu, with something for families, couples, and tour groups passing through. Some of our most popular dishes include:

  • Seafood Chowder — a Bunratty classic, packed with fresh local seafood
  • Steak Sandwich — a Main Bar staple, hearty and always a favourite
  • Oysters — fresh and simply served, a nod to our award-winning Oyster Restaurant

You’re welcome to walk in any day of the week, or if you’d rather guarantee a table — especially for larger groups or busy evenings.. you can book online in advance. Full details of what’s on offer can be found on our Menus page.

Group Bookings at Our Bunratty Pub

Planning a family celebration, tour group stop, birthday gathering, or private event? We take group bookings of all sizes in the Main Bar or book in privately to The Loft and can help put together a menu and setup to suit. Combine great food in Bunratty, a lively pub in Clare atmosphere, and traditional Irish hospitality.  Get in touch via our Contact page or give us a call to arrange your visit.

Is The Main Bar at Durty Nelly’s one of the most famous pubs in Clare?

Yes, The Main Bar at Durty Nelly’s is widely regarded as one of the most iconic pubs in County Clare. Located in Bunratty beside the famous castle, it has welcomed generations of locals and visitors for its traditional atmosphere, live music, and warm Irish hospitality.

Where is The Main Bar located in County Clare?

The Main Bar is located in Durty Nelly’s, Bunratty village, County Clare, just a short walk from Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, making it a popular stop for anyone exploring the area.

Does The Main Bar have live music and sing-alongs?

Yes, The Main Bar is known for its lively evenings, with regular live music and nightly sing-alongs that bring together locals and visitors for a true Irish pub experience in Clare.

Is The Main Bar a good pub to visit when travelling through Clare?

Absolutely. The Main Bar in Durty Nelly’s is a favourite stop for people travelling through County Clare, whether visiting Bunratty Castle, exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, or looking for an authentic Irish pub with a welcoming atmosphere. Durty Nelly’s is known worldwide! Come see our extensive amount of badges adorning the pub ceiling left by visitors from all over the world.

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Durty Nelly’s impressive frontage immediately caught my attention, so I had to visit. I popped in for lunch with no wait time and ordered wings, a toasted special, and chowder. Everything was excellent and well above what I expected. Definitely worth a visit if you’re nearby or visiting the Folk Park. Service was friendly and the atmosphere lively and welcoming

Darach McEoinGood Food in Bunratty
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Durty Nelly’s impressive frontage immediately caught my attention, so I had to visit. I popped in for lunch with no wait time and ordered wings, a toasted special, and chowder. Everything was excellent and well above what I expected. Definitely worth a visit if you’re nearby or visiting the Folk Park. Service was friendly and the atmosphere lively and welcoming

Darach McEoinGood Food in Bunratty
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Great local pub with a very warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the service was quick even though it was quite busy. A perfect place to relax, meet friends, and experience a true Irish atmosphere. I’ll definitely be back!

Daria ZakharovaGreat Pub in Bunratty
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