Planning a trip to Ireland? You are likely to spend some time in a pub, so do your homework before you arrive. It’s easy to visit a pub for a pint, but understanding the unspoken rules regarding pub culture will ensure how not to look like a tourist. The pub is the centre of the social universe in Ireland.

The Irish are fun and friendly so there’s a good chance that during one of your pub sessions, you’ll end up drinking with a couple of locals. When everyone is done their drink, one person will go up to the bar and buy for everyone in the group. When that round is over, the next person buys and so on. DO NOT SKIP YOUR ROUND. Pony up when it’s your turn. Tip: Couples do not count as one; you are each having a drink so you each need to buy a round.

If you order a Guinness, you can say to the barman, “I’ll have a pint please.” It’s basic currency in this country and manners are everything – no need to specify what kind, as they’ll assume you want a Guinness.  Have patience!  According to the official Guinness custodians, it takes exactly 119.5 seconds and a 45-degree tilt to pour the pint of Guinness.  After that you need to let it settle. The cardinal rule in drinking Guinness: do not drink it without letting the head settle and for goodness sake; don’t order a glass (a half pint).
 
There is little table service. To get the barman’s attention, move near to the bar. Know exactly what you want! There are no fancy cocktail menus. Do not waive your money at them. Once served, pay up! No tabs.  Seating – there is never enough seats in a bar, but don’t dare to jump into an empty seat without first asking. They may be keeping a seat open for a regular senior.
 
If you are going for an afternoon pint, casual dress is the attire. But if you’re out for the evening, dress up a little.  For the lads, we suggest you don’t pair your jeans with  “runners”, and try a dress shoe instead. Locals like to get dressed up.
 
Tipping in Irish pubs isn’t expected but always appreciated.  Tipping is usually left at the end of the evening. The value of 10-15% of your total bill is a suggested amount.
 
Pubs welcome many occasions celebrating birthdays, births, weddings and the post mortem of a funeral.  Irish pubs are a place of fun, storytelling, music and craic. So come join us on one of our tours!