Whelan’s
Important to know
- Website: https://www.whelanslive.com
- Address: 25 Wexford Street - Dublin - Ireland
- Getting here: Pleasants Street bus stop (70 m) Lines: 9, 14, 15, 16, 65, 68, 122, 140, 142
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM to 1:30 AM - Friday and Saturday: 5:00 PM to 2:30 AM - Sunday: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
In the heart of Wexford Street, Dublin, sits Whelan’s, one of the city’s most legendary pubs and a must-visit for live music lovers.
Dating back to the 17th century, the venue has undergone countless transformations over the years but has preserved its spirit: a gathering place for those who live and breathe music.
From Origins to Rock
The location has a long history. Since 1772, it housed an establishment that changed hands several times.
But in 1989, Gary Whelan and Ian Keith purchased the venue and created what we now know as Whelan’s: a live music hub that preserved original architectural details, transforming the pub into a Dublin cultural icon.
The Stage of Legends
Whelan’s intimate stage has hosted performances that became legendary.
Highlights include Jeff Buckley (1994), Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds (1996), and The Frames, led by Glen Hansard, who played there in 1995.
The pub also hosted the Dublin debuts of bands like Arctic Monkeys and Bloc Party in 2005, before they achieved worldwide fame.
In 2017, Arcade Fire surprised fans with a secret acoustic show at the venue, shortly after filling the 3Arena.
Inspiration for Emerging Artists
Whelan’s has also played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary musicians. In 2004, a 13-year-old Ed Sheeran attended a Damien Rice show at the pub and described the experience as his “musical epiphany,” the moment he decided he wanted to become a musician.
Structure and Atmosphere
Over the years, Whelan’s has expanded to include multiple areas. Today, the pub has three levels, including Upstairs @ Whelan’s, with a 120-person capacity, and the Parlour Bar on the third floor, offering a cozy retro vibe.
There’s also a covered outdoor area for smokers and bars serving a wide variety of Irish beers and whiskeys.
Visiting Whelan’s is stepping into the very soul of Dublin’s music scene. Between the photos on the walls, intimate yet powerful stages, and passionate crowds, Whelan’s is a living part of the local musical culture.
Rock Route in Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland, is famous for its rich musical history, having been the birthplace of bands and artists like U2, Kodaline, Sinead O’Connor, Thin Lizzy, and The Script. The city is an excellent destination for rock fans, with plenty of interesting places to visit that will make your trip even more musical.
