Johnnie Fox's Pub
Ireland's highest pub, steeped in history since 1798, offering traditional food, live music, and a unique, museum-like atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & Hooley Show
Johnnie Fox's Pub
Best Time
Live music & Hooley Show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ireland's highest pub, steeped in history since 1798, offering traditional food, live music, and a unique, museum-like atmosphere.
"A real, authentic Irish restaurant with exceptional atmosphere and delicious food."
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for dinner or the Hooley Show. Avoid disappointment and secure your spot!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along! Johnnie Fox's is a dog-friendly restaurant and pub.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Hooley Show'
Main dining area
Experience traditional Irish music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere with dinner. A must-do for an authentic Irish night out!
Eclectic Decor & 'Mini-Museums'
Throughout the pub
Explore walls adorned with antiques, old photos, and unique bric-a-brac. Discover former pig sheds turned into fascinating displays of farming tools.
Traditional Irish Cuisine
Restaurant
Savor hearty dishes like Irish Lamb Stew and their 'Famous' Whiskey Cake. Delicious food in a rustic, traditional setting.
The Highest Pub in Ireland
Glencullen, Dublin Mountains
Enjoy the unique distinction of dining and drinking at Ireland's highest-altitude pub, offering a memorable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for a Seat
Embrace the Mountain Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for dinner or the Hooley Show. Avoid disappointment and secure your spot!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along! Johnnie Fox's is a dog-friendly restaurant and pub.
🎶 Experience the Hooley
Don't miss the live music and Irish dancing show for an unforgettable night.
⛰️ Hike & Dine
Combine a hike in the Dublin Mountains with a hearty meal at this iconic pub.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Table!
Essential for dinner or the Hooley Show. Avoid disappointment and secure your spot!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Bring your furry friends along! Johnnie Fox's is a dog-friendly restaurant and pub.
🎶 Experience the Hooley
Don't miss the live music and Irish dancing show for an unforgettable night.
⛰️ Hike & Dine
Combine a hike in the Dublin Mountains with a hearty meal at this iconic pub.
📸 Capture the Decor
The pub's interior is a visual feast; take time to explore its unique antiques.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Johnnie Fox's Pub is celebrated for its incredibly authentic Irish atmosphere, rich history, and lively entertainment, particularly the 'Hooley Show.' Visitors consistently praise the delicious traditional food and the unique, museum-like decor. While the popularity means booking is essential, the warm welcome and memorable experience make it a highly recommended destination.
"We came here for a family lunch, hoping to also get a nice view of the countryside, but Storm Matilda had other ideas! So, entering this lovely looking place and feeling the warmth from inside, was even better. It's a very busy pub, but you get a really warm welcome from the excellent staff, and the place looks great with every wall adorned with "stuff".
The menu had a good choice of options all based around traditional Irish and pub favourites.
I went for:
- Irish Lamb Stew: A classic combination of stewed lamb with diced potatoes, carrot, celery & pearl barley, topped with puff pastry
- "Famous" Whiskey Cake
We had really friendly, efficient service and the food was really tasty. The Irish Stew was a very generous portion full of meat and veg in a really tasty gravy. The Whisky Cake was dripping with whiskey - delicious.
A great place for a really lovely, family lunch.
(Also posted to my food blog on Instagram @AbbeyKing16)"
Dave
"This is one of my favorite restaurants. Everything here is beautiful, and the food and the atmosphere. We've been countless times, and we'll definitely come back again and again. Be sure to book a table, otherwise there's a very high probability of just not getting in and not eating these goodies!"
Zarema Abdurakhmanova
"I had the chef’s special and it was absolutely delicious. The rustic and traditional atmosphere made the experience even more enjoyable, and the live music created the perfect touch. I truly loved everything about this place – from the food to the warm and authentic vibe."
André Capareli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Johnnie Fox's Pub is located in Glencullen, in the Dublin Mountains. You can drive there, which takes about 30-40 minutes from Dublin city center, offering scenic views. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also an option. Public transport is limited, so driving or a taxi is generally recommended. +1
Public transport options to Johnnie Fox's Pub are quite limited. While some bus routes might get you close to the general area, it often requires a significant walk or a further taxi ride. It's best to check current bus schedules or opt for a taxi/driving.
From Dublin city center, head south towards the M50 motorway. Take exit 12 for Scholarstown Road/R113 towards Knocklyon. Follow signs for the R113 and then for Glencullen. The pub is well-signposted once you are in the Glencullen area.
Yes, Johnnie Fox's Pub typically offers parking facilities for visitors. However, due to its popularity, the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours and weekends. Arriving early is advisable if you plan to drive.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Dublin and can take you to Johnnie Fox's Pub. It's a good option if you plan to enjoy drinks without worrying about driving. Ensure you have the correct address for your driver.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can visit Johnnie Fox's Pub for drinks and explore the decor without a ticket, booking is highly recommended for dinner and especially for the 'Hooley Show.' Without a reservation, you might not get a table for food or be able to attend the show.
Johnnie Fox's Pub generally opens daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening and closing times, particularly for the kitchen and the 'Hooley Show.'
The 'Hooley Show' typically includes dinner and entertainment. Pricing can vary, and it's advisable to check the official Johnnie Fox's Pub website or contact them directly for the most current ticket prices and package details.
Yes, you can visit Johnnie Fox's Pub for drinks without a reservation, especially if you arrive outside of peak dining hours. However, it can get very busy, and seating at the bar might be limited.
The 'Hooley Show' is generally considered a family-friendly event, but it's always best to confirm any age restrictions or recommendations directly with Johnnie Fox's Pub when booking, especially for younger children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Johnnie Fox's Pub serves traditional Irish and classic pub fare. Popular dishes include Irish Lamb Stew, seafood options, and hearty mains. They are also famous for their 'Whiskey Cake.'
Absolutely! Johnnie Fox's Pub is very family-friendly, offering a warm atmosphere, traditional food, and often live entertainment that appeals to all ages. Booking ahead is recommended for family lunches or dinners.
While the menu focuses on traditional Irish cuisine, it's always a good idea to check with the pub directly or look at their current menu online for specific vegetarian or vegan options, as these can change.
The 'Famous' Whiskey Cake at Johnnie Fox's Pub is a rich, moist cake generously infused with whiskey, often served with cream or ice cream. It's a highly recommended dessert for those who enjoy a boozy treat.
You can usually find the menu for Johnnie Fox's Pub on their official website or through various online dining platforms. This will give you an idea of the dishes and prices before you visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Johnnie Fox's Pub is famously lively, warm, and traditional. It's packed with character, from its historical decor to live music, creating a truly authentic Irish pub experience. +1
Yes, Johnnie Fox's Pub is incredibly photogenic! The unique interior, filled with antiques, old photographs, and quirky displays, offers endless opportunities for interesting shots. The mountain setting also provides scenic backdrops.
The interior is a treasure trove of antiques, memorabilia, and historical artifacts. It feels like stepping back in time, with 'mini-museums' in former pig sheds showcasing old farming tools, making it a truly distinctive space.
Yes, Johnnie Fox's Pub is renowned for its live traditional Irish music sessions, often featuring fiddle, guitar, and bodhrán. This adds significantly to the vibrant and authentic atmosphere.
Visitors are generally welcome to take photos inside Johnnie Fox's Pub to capture its unique atmosphere and decor. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other patrons and staff, especially during busy periods or performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with kids, booking a table in advance is crucial to ensure you get a spot. The menu offers traditional, hearty meals that are generally well-received by younger palates, and the pub's welcoming nature makes it a comfortable environment for families.
🚶 Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
The pub's location high in the mountains means you can easily combine an outdoor adventure with a visit. The scenic drive or walk to the pub is part of the charm, and the warm, inviting interior offers a welcome respite after a day in the elements.
🎶 Music & Culture Lovers
This is where you can truly immerse yourself in the heart of Irish pub culture. The historical setting, combined with the lively performances, creates an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to connect with Ireland's rich musical heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The pub's interior is a testament to its long past. It's adorned with a vast collection of antiques, old photographs, and bric-a-brac, creating a unique, museum-like ambiance. Visitors can explore 'mini-museums' housed in former pig sheds, which display antique farming tools and other historical artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into rural Irish life.
This deep connection to history is palpable as you step inside. It's more than just a place to eat and drink; it's an experience that transports you through time, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish heritage and culture.
The 'Hooley Show' Experience
The show is designed to be immersive and engaging, making you feel like part of the celebration. Combined with a hearty Irish meal, it provides a complete package for a memorable night out. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the entertainment and the overall festive spirit.
Given its popularity, booking for the 'Hooley Show' is absolutely essential. It's advisable to secure your spot well in advance, as it's a sought-after experience that often sells out. This ensures you don't miss out on one of the most iconic Irish pub entertainment nights.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
This policy is a significant draw for travelers and locals alike who enjoy exploring with their pets. Whether you're stopping by after a hike in the surrounding hills or simply looking for a place to enjoy a meal with your dog, Johnnie Fox's offers a relaxed and accommodating environment.
It's a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall experience, making it easier for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dublin Mountains and the unique atmosphere of the pub without separation from their beloved pets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit