2024 Award Winners TRADITIONAL PUB OF THE YEAR 2024

Thomas Connolly Traditional Pub & Whiskey Bar, Sligo, Co Sligo

Everybody loves a good old fashioned Irish pub complete with cosy snugs and grocery shelves behind the bar, but too many are closing and we need to look after them before they slip away. Our wonderful old pubs are a particular passion of the current owner of Thomas Connolly, Paul O’Donnell, a serial traditional pub owner who took over this magnificent property in 2016 and it’s fortunate to be in his safe hands. It is one of the great old pubs that are the pride and joy of Sligo and, although named after a Mayor of Sligo who bought the premises in 1890, there’s been a pub on the site since 1780 and it was first licensed in 1861. No food, but within this famously atmospheric premises, you’ll find great drinks – premium whiskeys (the Sligo Whiskey Society meets here), craft gins and beers (on tap as well as bottles), tastings, good coffee, brilliant live music four nights a week and all the big sporting matches too. Exceptionally friendly and welcoming, this is a truly great Irish pub, with a proud sense of history - and a keen enjoyment of the present.