When the sun shines in Dublin (however briefly), you’ve got to make the most of it. Whether you’re after a post-work pint, a Saturday sesh in the sun, or just somewhere to sit and pretend you’re in Barcelona, this list has you covered. I promise it doesn’t rain often in Dublin, but if you’re looking for cover check out some rainy day activities in Dublin.
Dublin has an amalgamation of true beer gardens, little terraces in front of pubs with outdoor seating and places for a Big Bag of Cans with the Lads. Truth is, nobody knows the real origin of a big bag of cans with the lads, but it sure does make us feel fuzzy inside. A retractable roof on the space isn’t necessarily needed for Dubliners to call it a beer garden.
We’ve covered the best outdoor spaces in Smithfield for a beer, this time we’re going county wide. There’s plenty of space for it all, and you don’t even have to order a beer. Signature cocktails, delicious food and premium spirits are all welcome in the incredible beer gardens of Dublin.
City Centre Sun Traps
The Hendrick is in the heart of the city centre. So you’re never far from some brilliant boozers, with or without said beer garden.
The Hendrick Terrace, Hendrick Street. Psst that’s us!
Grab a cocktail from the bar, or 2 for €22, and relax in the courtyard. It’s a chilled space with some incredible artworks. I said this wasn’t going to be about Smithfield, but hey if I don’t shout about the Hendrick, who will!
Wigwam
Hidden first-floor terrace. Slightly under the radar, worth checking if it’s still open. It’s off O’Connell street, and you can get the luas to the front door from the Hendrick!
Fade Street Social, Drury Buildings / Peter’s Pub on Drury Street
That whole stretch gets great sun, especially south-facing in the afternoon. Trendy, but not too try-hard. Lots of people drinking on the steps of the Powerscourt too on nearby south william street! The terraces spills onto the street and catches that lovely west-facing evening sun. Great vibes, central location.
O’Connors on Mount Street
Outside terrace that’s south-facing. Perfect for soaking up rays near Grand Canal. They’ve got big screens for match days, and you might feel the corporate event vibes as it’s close to big company buildings.
The Church on upper Jervis St
Some west-facing seating—good for a golden pint, though drinks selection is a bit limited. If you’re into an Irish Coffee, their guided tour is a great experience.
Diceys on Harcourt Street
Huge outdoor space with multiple angles—probably gets sun no matter the time of day. Classic for a reason. If you’re there when the sun goes down, you’ll find a nightclub!
The Broyage Terrace in Kilmainham
Panoramic views of IMMA and Kilmainham Gaol, Broyage has a dog friendly terrace. The weekend bottomless brunch menu is a winner, so go bananas as they say. The retractable awnings allow the sunlight to overflow on the decking.
Southside Favourites
A short walk across the Liffey, and you’ll be in the South side of the City. This part of the city is home to Temple Bar, but the trendy spot lacks any real beer gardens.
Toners on Baggot Street
One of the best beer gardens in town. Always busy, always buzzing. Savage slice of wood fired pizza here! Claimed by Rory Guinness as the best pint of Guinness in town, however this really is up for debate.
M. O’Briens on Leeson Street
Front and side seating with south and west-facing sunshine, there are plenty of seats making it ideal for long summer evenings. Ideal for stopping in on Aviva match days, this is a popular spot for the rugby fans.
The Barge on the Charlemont canal
Out the front, right on the canal. South-facing and always popular when the weather hits 16°C. Again, you wouldn’t be out of place bringing your own on the canal! The bag of cans is known as alfresco drinks when you’re at the canal.
The Bath
Great south-facing garden, ideal for watching the world go by with a pint in hand. Their hidden courtyard is tucked in behind the bushes as you enter, although you cannot miss it as you walk in the front door.
The Pav at Trinity College
This might be home to one of the most prominent student bars in the country. The pavillion is the club house of the Trinity Cricket Club, but it is the best outdoor drinks location for the summer events. The Pav hosts the pre-drinks for the Trinity Summer Series too, which is always a brilliant night out.
Liberties & Nearby Spots
The Christchurch inn in uhm Christchuch?
Roadside, but south-facing for decent evening sun. It used to have a solid craft beer selection, now you will find some more well known labels. I will go out on a limb and say it has the best halloumi fries in North Dublin though.
Lucky’s on Meath St
This is a quirky spot that has a big back yard. What goes well with a big back yard… great pizza from Coke lane! Lucky’s has great music and a laid-back crowd. Perfect for the good evenings.
North of the Liffey
The Northside of the City is where the magic happens, stunning views of croke park, lively atmosphere and a real aul dear community.
Bald Eagle in Phibsborough
This unassuming pub has a north-facing garden. It is a bit small, but still a good hangout. Not every day needs sun, right?
Back Page also in Phibsborough
Football and beer, a great combo. The Back Page is a Bohs pub with a south-facing (though the space is narrow) beer garden. Games, pizzas, good tunes all you need for a summer day.
Fagans in Drumcondra
Tiny garden, but west-facing so catches a bit of that evening glow. Maybe it’s more of a smoking shelter than a beer garden, but you can have beer and it is outside. This isn’t a guide to beautiful beer gardens, but more a comprehensive list of them all.
The Bernard Shaw in Glasnevin
Now if you are looking for a stylish beer garden, well the Bernard Shaw is about as hot as it gets. It has a south west facing outdoor area, but right on a busy road. Still, the vibes win and so does the fancy grub.
Harry Byrne’s / Yacht / Bru (Clontarf)
Sea breeze, sun spots, and pints—what more do you need? If you’re in for a bit of beer garden action, chances are you might be in the mood for a sea swim too.
BYO Picnic Spots
Merrion Square
The sunniest square in the city. Open and bright from all directions. Grab some cans and a blanket.
Phoenix Park
Right next to us in Smithfield, the largest park in Ireland is located. Not really a spot for cans in the park, but certainly a great place for summer drinks on a picnic date. A more upmarket picnic with plenty of greenery than a place for casual drinks with the gang.
Beyond the City Limits
The Blue Light in Sandyford
East and north-facing, but it doesn’t matter you’ve got to see the panoramic views of the Dublin mountains. Often, you’ll find live music here on a sunday afternoon.
Gibney’s in Malahide
Get the dart out to Malahide on a sunny afternoon, have a scoop (of Ice Cream) before a real scoop in Gibs. The middle courtyard fills with sun and buzz late into the night. Their upstairs terrace is savage for larger groups.
Haddington House in Dún Laoghaire
Beautiful garden facing the sea. It’s definitely a date venue, it’s fancy but worth it. Be a little Boogie!
The Forty Foot, Wetherspoons in Dún Laoghaire
I know what you’re thinking, Wetherspoons…. But it has got a large outdoor area, super affordable (you know the drill), surprisingly nice.
The Strawberry Hall in Strawberry Beds, Chapelizod
A bit of a riverside hidden gem. Go for a pint and some peace. Don’t tell them I sent you, it’s one of those spots you like to keep to yourself because of how nice it is.
The Skerries Spots – Along the Harbour
On the outskirts of Dublin City is the town of Skerries, a real gem in the map. The Harbour has amazing views and unbeatable sunset beer vibes. Grab a bite to eat in 5Rock and nip a pint from Joe Mays.
Last Orders
Not all beer gardens are created equal, and we know that. Some are full-on sun traps, while others are more about the buzz. Hopefully this guide helps you find your perfect pint + sun combo. We’ve listened the better known beer gardens to places for a sunny pint that don’t even have a wall!
Dublin 7 is buzzing with places to eat, bars to drink in and things to do. The Hendrick is your perfect base for your stay in Dublin.