Tipperary pub named the best in Ireland in brand new ranking from major outlet
Larkins in Garrykennedy took the top spot while Cloneen’s The Thatch also featured on the list
Larkins Bar & Restaurant in Garrykennedy has taken the top spot in The Times' new ranking of the 50 Best Pubs in Ireland for 2026.
The lakeside favourite, just outside the village of Portroe and 10 minutes from Nenagh in north Tipperary, claimed first place in the prestigious list published by the UK newspaper on Friday, June 19.
The ranking was compiled by The Sunday Times newsroom alongside a panel of experts, including content creator Cassie Stokes, who recently paid a visit to the Boyle family at Larkins.
Describing the pub, The Times said: “Larkins is in the middle of Ireland but the setting feels more like pubs you'd find on the coast. This one, on the shore of Lough Derg, manages to do everything well. It’s old, cosy, welcoming, and they do great food and a fantastic pint. It’s family owned and run, and there’s a huge beer garden for the sunny days.
“This is a destination pub: there is lots to explore nearby, so you can plan a trip around it. You can even arrive by boat, as there’s a marina right outside the door.”
Though a popular pub year-round, Larkins really comes into its own when the sun shines and the evenings grow longer in spring and summer. Known for a great pint of Guinness, fantastic trad sessions and a generous bowl of chips, it's a place where a few hours can easily slip by in the company of friends and family.
The accolade is just the latest in a string of recognitions for the Garrykennedy pub. As mentioned, Cassie Stokes recently highlighted Larkins to her large social media following, while the pub has also featured in Lonely Planet's guide to Tipperary and in Lovin.ie's list of the best pubs in Ireland with a view.
Joining Larkins on The Times list was Cloneen's The Thatch, another pub that is no stranger to ‘best of’ rankings.
The newspaper described The Thatch as follows: “This cottage pub is an experience. It used to be a house, so it really is tiny, and it’s so dark inside, it’s like walking into a cave. The owner jokes that the wooden bar is the newest part of the pub, at 100 years old.
“With the original stone floor, doors, and even old ledgers, this is a delightful little time capsule. The range in the middle of the pub is joyfully cosy too. This place is untouched, authentic and really special.”
The full list is packed with pubs worth adding to the bucket list, from Dublin favourites such as The Gravediggers and Galway's Salt House to more off-the-beaten-track spots like Bob's Bar in Durrow and O'Loclainn's in Ballyvaughan.