Charlie’s Bar is a small, old-school pub on Union Quay in Cork, right on the river. It has a huge following for live music, with bands most nights of the week, and it is one of the most characterful bars in the city, with a stove fire lit every day.
For decades it was famous as an early house, opening its doors at 7am, and it still draws an unusually mixed crowd, from students to regulars who have been drinking there for years.
Where Is Charlie’s Bar?
Address: 2 Union Quay, Cork, T12 A376
Phone: (021) 431 8342
Union Quay is on the south channel of the River Lee, a short walk from the South Mall and close to City Hall. There is covered outside seating across the road by the water, with table service.
Opening Hours
Opening times vary between listings. Charlie’s was long famous as a 7am early house, while newer listings show an afternoon opening. It usually closes at around 11:30pm during the week and later at the weekend, so call ahead if you are planning an early or late visit.
Live Music at Charlie’s
There is live music around five nights a week, covering rock, blues, soul, folk and traditional Irish music. Hank Wedel and Ray Barron have a long-running Monday night slot, and the Sunday afternoon trad session is a Cork institution. Saturday nights bring blues, soul and rock bands, so get there early if you want a seat.
A Proper Old Cork Pub
Charlie’s is a no-frills bar: there is no big food menu, and the focus is on a good pint, the music and the conversation. That is exactly why people love it.
More Bars Near Charlie’s
Charlie’s closes earlier than the city’s late bars, so it makes a great first stop before heading on. See our guide to late night bars in Cork, including Arthur Mayne’s and the Crane Lane Theatre, both a short walk away. For more, see our full list of Cork pubs.