A Guide To Watch Sports In Ireland
The Emerald Isle was created for Sport
Sport is certainly a major topic in Ireland, followed by millions of fans who love the different typical Irish disciplines! From the traditional sports like Hurling and Gaelic Football, to Soccer, Rugby, Golf, Boxing and a range of other activities: they are at the centre of Ireland’s sporting scene. However, the question that is behind everything is: where can I watch these sports in Ireland? The answer is right in this roundup of places, from the most popular pubs to watch matches to the biggest stadiums of Ireland, that I hope they can suit you!
Best Stadiums To Watch Sports In Ireland
Croke Park Stadium
Location: Jones’ Rd, Drumcondra, Dublin 3
This stadium is one of the largest in Europe, with a capacity of 82,300 and can accommodate all types of events: from field sports to concerts, meetings to tradeshows and custom-built banqueting. Croke Park has played host to many international sports including rugby, soccer and American football in recent years. Also, GAA proudly provided the venue for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2003 Special Olympics.
Aviva Stadium
Location: Lansdowne Rd, Dublin 4
You have to visit Aviva Stadium to experience the feeling for Irish people’s passion for sport. Join about 50,000 other fans for a rugby match or soccer game at this stadium. The Six Nations Championship matches held here are particularly exciting, drawing fans from all over the world. And during the UEFA European Football Championship 2028, the Aviva Stadium will be one of the venues hosting the continent’s best players and teams. If sport isn’t your thing, come for a concert; big name acts such as Rihanna and Michael Jackson have performed at Aviva Stadium.
Thomond Park Stadium
Location: Cratloe Rd, Ballynanty Beg, Limerick
Thomond Park is synonymous with Munster Rugby and it’s famous for its passionate crowds. Since the extraordinary reopening night in 2008, Thomond Park has hosted an impressive variety of events. The new stadium has continually delivered on its promise to attract the very best in terms of sporting, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
Semple Stadium
Location: Bohernave Road, Thurles Townparks
Semple Stadium is a key venue for Hurling matches, especially during the Munster Championship. It’s the second largest GAA stadium in Ireland, with a capacity of 45,690 and named after Tom Semple, the captain of the Thurles “Blues”.
Páirc Uí Chaoimh
Location: The Marina, Ballintemple, Corcaigh
Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a Gaelic games stadium in Cork, with a seating capacity of 45,000. It has been used to host Cork’s home league and championship games in both Gaelic Football and Hurling. The finals of both sports have often been held at the venue. The Stadium has also hosted concerts by Micheal Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Oasis, Elthon John and many more.
Best Sports Bars in Ireland
The Living Room
Location: Cathal Brugha St, Rotunda, Dublin 1
This is one of the most popular pubs that offers you a large selection of live sports over 50 screens. If you are keen on Rugby, Soccer or Gaelic Games: this is the right place to enjoy these events while drinking an excellent beer sitting outdoors in a beautiful garden.
The Wool Shed Bar
Location: The Parnell Centre, 198-200 Parnell St, Centre, Dublin 1
The Wool Shed Bar is a sports bar that offers many screens showing all main international sports like NFL, NBA, AFL and Champions League. The beauty of this venue is that you can taste multicultural and vibrant atmosphere, while enjoying the bar food specials.
Sinnotts Bar
Location: King St S, Dublin
Traditional Irish pub that is usually packed out for the big GAA, football and rugby matches. It’s a perfect place for sports fans thanks to its impressive lineup of big-screen TVs broadcasting at the same time. You should experience first-hand the magic feeling of cheering in Sinnotts Bar during a big match!
The Camden
Location: 84, Camden Street Lower, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin 2
This spot is a trendy and modern pub where you can come in contact with an immersive atmosphere watching major sports events, including Soccer, Rugby, GAA and Boxing. The Camden features a giant screen and multiple HD TVs, thanks to which you can support all the sports you want!
Other unique places to watch sports in Ireland
The Galway Races
Location: Ballybrit, Galway
The Galway Races is an Irish horse-racing festival that starts on the last Monday of July every year. Regarded as Ireland’s largest horse racing festival, the iconic Galway Races boasts gorgeous horse racing, hospitality, entertainment with live bands and DJ’s daily, stunning fashion and an electric atmosphere that continues to draw people from Ireland and abroad to experience the pure magic and catching fun.
Bundoran Surf Co
Location: Main St. Drumacrin, Bundoran, Co. Donegal
Talking about something completely different, Bundoran Surf Co is very popular for offering one of the oldest surf classes in the country, along the Donegal Coast. Also it’s a great place to ride on horseback through the Tullan Strand dunes or alongside the beach. If you are in the mood to change your environment and breathe a little sea breeze you must not miss Bundoran Surf Co!
When is the best time to visit Ireland for sports?
The best time is during the summer months: May to September, when major GAA matches, International Rugby, and Golf tournaments take place.
Where can I buy tickets for sports events in Ireland?
Tickets for GAA games can be bought from the official GAA website. Rugby and Soccer tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster or from the respective clubs’ websites.
Plan your next trip to Ireland and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most thrilling sports environments!!!
