About Us
Welcome to O'Connell's, where a rich tapestry of history, culture, and camaraderie weaves through every corner. For many years, we have been a cherished gathering place in the heart of Galway, offering not just a pub, but an experience. We take immense pride in curating an atmosphere that embraces both tradition and innovation, where old-world charm meets contemporary flair.
Our History
The pub was opened in 1862 by Maureen O'Connell's aunt and uncle, and Maureen took over the business in the 1950s after inheriting it from her relatives, who had no children of their own. Aside from running the busy pub, Maureen also managed a 15-bedroom guesthouse and a shop all by herself. Now easily recognisable, the beer garden was a bustling stable yard where horses were fed and watered.
Stepping into O’Connell’s Bar, you are entering a
world of its own. It is a true step back in time, retaining all original
features, including tiled floors, antique lighting, stained glass windows, and
a striking pressed tin ornate ceiling in the main bar.
The pub is currently subject to a preservation order so it will be staying much the same for the foreseeable future.
O'Connell's Today
Today O’Connell’s is a popular venue attracting a diverse crowd, although it is particularly popular with professionals, especially in the early evening after work. It has undergone expansion since it was sold in 2006.
They now boast one of Galway Citys’ best outdoor beer garden winning "Best Outdoor Space" at the 2022 Irish Pub Awards. The beer garden , Gin Lane, features lots of large picnic tables and wooden decking as well as the famous pizzas from The Dough Bros.
Our mock street makes it is easy to forget you are in the centre of the City. Parts of the Gin Lane are covered and heated so even in winter you can at least pretend Ireland has a warm climate.
ed sheeran's galway girl
Shortly after the garden’s renovations, a musician's management company approached O'Connell's to ask to use the pub in a music video. Without much detail, the pub agreed, and it turned out to be Grammy award-winning Ed Sheeran. Shot POV-style by the superstar himself, the video features guest appearances from a host of Irish stars including Saoirse Ronan, Tommy Tiernan and Hector Ó hEochagáin. All enjoying the buzz of O’Connell’s while dancing, drinking pints, and playing darts! The music video for "Galway Girl" has now amassed over 600 million views on YouTube since its release in 2017.
Come and join us in celebrating the spirit of community, delicious food, and the vibrant heartbeat of Galway City!