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Food & Drinks in Carlingford

Taaffe’s bar

WELCOME TO CARLINGFORDS OLDEST PUB!
TAAFFES BAR CARLINGFORD IS A TRADITIONAL IRISH BAR THAT SETS YOU BACK IN 16TH CENTURY CARLINGFORD.

Taaffes Bar authentic medieval style complete with swords, knights in shining Armour and banquette hall located in the heart of the Castle is the perfect location to leave the modern day behind. Taaffes Bar is the only location in Carlingford with two separate court yards for those sunny days and a separate Sport viewing area for those sporting fans.

The wonderful, rugged medieval remnants of Taaffe’s Castle bar make for spectacular exterior, not to mention one of the most charismatic beer gardens around. You will also get a right royal welcome inside from the staff.It is hard to miss the place – the towering 16th century grey stone keep of the fortification stands supremely in the centre of Carlingford, just across the border in Co Louth. However when you enter through the adjacent quaint village pub where cozy traditional elements such as the soothing coal fire and old black and white pictures stare -back at the central curving bar.In contrast to its spectacular sidekick outside – the main bar on the corner of Market Street and Newry Street – tales on an enjoyable, but less grandiose, style.It is very much in keeping with the rural, cottage-style bars of the 1950’s in which sitting with a creamy pint of plain’ comes easy.

Taaffes is a relaxing spot with a child friendly atmosphere for a casual Sunday afternoon stop off. However, upstairs things certainly get a bit racier on Saturdays and Sundays when the stag and hen parties descend on the disco.It really seems built to cater for such functions so be ready for plenty of cowgirls in pink hats and brides in L-plates taking the dance floor by storm – not to mention blokes in the corner looking like they are having last minute re-thinks. You are much better off hanging around the two beer gardens, whether it be the courtyard or the “secret garden” within the castle walls. The garden is a great chill-out spot, where live bands are the order of the day throughout the summer and groups can even request a barbecue if they give advance notice. Therefore you can dine, as well as live like a king.

What Some Visitors Say

DON't Just take our word for it, have a read how others got on in Carlingford!

Claire H
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Carlingford Escapes absolutely delivered! The accommodation was perfect and the team made everything so easy, a hilarious activity that had us in stitches, and pubs that kept the cocktails and craic flowing all night. The bride-to-be hasn’t stopped raving, and neither have we. Already plotting our “recovery weekend” back there!
Lisa Dempsey
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We had a fantastic few days in Carlingford with the kids. The views were absolutely stunning with perfect for morning coffee and evening strolls. We did a fun family activity that had all of us laughing and the food in town was top notch, loads of great options for all tastes. It really was the perfect mix of chill and adventure. We’ll definitely be back!
Mark O’Neill
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Carlingford was the perfect spot for our stag. The accommodation was in a savage location close to everything, which was ideal after a few pints! We did an adrenaline-filled activity that had the lads buzzing all day, then hit the pubs and dance floors ‘til late. Great atmosphere, cracking tunes, and plenty of laughs. Can’t recommend it enough legendary weekend!
David Byrne - Operations Manager
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Our company booked a two-day retreat with Carlingford Escapes and it was a brilliant decision. The team-building activity was well-organised, engaging, and got everyone working (and laughing) together. The evening meal at a local restaurant was outstanding – great service and even better food. A perfect mix of productivity and relaxation. Highly recommended for corporate getaways.
Sean Gallagher
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Our sports club booked a weekend in Carlingford and it did not disappoint. Golf course was in great shape with stunning views, ideal way to spend the day. Afterwards we were straight into the pub for some of the best pints of Guinness we’ve had in a while. The buzz was brilliant and the accommodation was just a stroll away it couldn’t have been handier. Top spot for a lads trip. We’ll be back next season!
Emma Kavanagh
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We had the most amazing time at Carlingford Escapes! The accommodation was fab with loads of space, spotless, and right in the middle of everything. We picked an activity that suited everyone (from aunties to bridesmaids!) and it was such good fun without being too wild. The night ended with disco lights, cocktails, and some very questionable dance moves!
Ryan McCarthy
Ryan McCarthy
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We kicked off the weekend with some exhilarating kayaking and a hilarious round of bubble football, which had us all in stitches! Our accommodation was just a stone’s throw from the action. We had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. we hit the bustling bars in the town. The atmosphere was electric! Each bar had its own vibe, but we especially loved the live music at Taaffe's Castle. Highly recommend for anyone planning a stag do!