Crotty's Bar

Crotty’s Bar stands on Market Square in the town of Kilrush, County Clare, on Ireland’s west coast along the Wild Atlantic Way. A traditional pub whose roots reach back to the early twentieth century, it retains much of its period character, with mellowed woodwork, pitch pine counters, an ornate tiled floor and original plate glass mirrors. The interior is divided into separate areas, including snugs and a room fitted out in the style of an old kitchen, and the walls carry a collection of historical material relating to the pub and the town.

The bar is closely associated with Elizabeth “Mrs” Crotty, who ran the premises with her husband Miko and became one of Ireland’s best-known concertina players. She was recorded here in the 1950s by the RTÉ broadcaster Ciarán MacMathúna and helped establish the Clare branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann before her death in 1960. Her legacy is marked each year in Kilrush through festival events celebrating her music and the wider tradition of the Anglo concertina.

Today Crotty’s is known for its food and for the traditional music sessions it hosts, particularly through the summer months, when the pub is a popular gathering place for musicians. Accommodation is also available on site, with guest rooms furnished in a period style.