Freeneys

Situated right in the Heart of Galway City on High Street, Freeneys is a great place to get away from the crowds during the week when some of the larger pubs nearby are packed full. They stock a wide range of Whiskey and are part of the Irish Whiskey Trail.

From the outside some people don’t even realise it’s a pub at all due to its display of Swiss army knives and Zippo lighters in its window. This compact property also houses a small fishing tackle and outdoor shop beside the pub.

As recently as 1976 it was still a Pub and a General Merchant, acting as a grocers’ shop for the locals and supplying everything and anything to the many fishing trawlers in nearby Galway docks. They packed their own sugar and tea, bottled their own Jameson and Powers whiskeys from the cask, but as the small grocers trade changed with the arrival of supermarkets, the grocery shop was converted to a fishing tackle shop.

Once inside however you immediately enter a pub full of character and warmth. There are some unusual display cases on the walls showcasing fish which were caught locally. The bar counter  is partitioned  in an old fashioned style creating a great place for a quiet pint.

This place has a loyal local following which is a good indication of the quality of a pub. Although quiet during the week this place fills up fast at the weekend and you will do well to squeeze through the narrow entry on a Saturday night. It also has a convenient smoking area to the rear. During the Summer they also have place a seating area on High Street which is a great place to watch the world go by.

All in all, a great place to escape the crowds during the week and do something a little different. A Pub Guide favourite.