On the edge of Dublin’s north inner city, a quick jaunt from Connolly Station, Cleary’s has stood resplendently on Amiens Street since 1849. Within the walls of this fascinating and historical landmark, proprietors and patrons witnessed Irish Republicans plotting over pints, welcomed world-famous actors, and you’ll recognise its distinct interiors in classic films such as The Commitments. There’s an inherent uniqueness to Cleary’s, which has drawn people from all walks of life to enjoy a mouth-watering pint for generations. It even inspired James Joyce, who included it–when the establishment was known as The Signal House–as a setting in his behemoth work, Ulysses.
A legendary establishment, and one of the few remaining traditional pubs in Dublin’s inner city, there are so many reasons why Cleary’s has endured where other pubs have sadly been lost to time. Delicious pints, friendly staff, and a large space for private events are incredible assets for any pub. However, Cleary’s unique allure is its boundless charm and infectious atmosphere, which bring people together to cultivate a community like no other from the moment you step inside its inviting red doors.
Amongst Cleary’s most famous regulars were Irish Republicans Michael Collins and Harry Boland, friends of one of the premises’ earliest proprietors, Jim Cleary. The pair frequently discussed strategy and developed their rebellious plans in the lead-up to the 1916 Rising in the privacy of one of the pub’s private nooks. These meetings were recreated in Neil Jordan’s Academy Award-nominated biopic, Michael Collins (1996), with Liam Neeson and Aidan Quinn as the historical figures. The striking, authentic aesthetic of the Victorian-licensed building has caught the eye of many filmmakers over the years, with Cleary’s characterful corners featured in the 1962 drama, Term of Trial, starring Laurence Olivier and Terence Stamp, and Alan Parker’s aforementioned comedy-musical, The Commitments.
Stepping inside Cleary’s striking and instantly recognisable red facade adorned with its classic hand-painted signage, the pub’s interior has changed very little to maintain its warm and alluring character. The beautiful hand-painted signage above our doors today serves as a reminder of our remarkable history. Fenians and filmstars aside, JM Cleary’s was a regular spot for the railway workers of the area and visitors who had disembarked from the neighbouring train station. So close is the pub to the tracks, practically connected by the commanding overhead railway bridge, that Iarnród Éireann was forced to pay the electricity bills on the proprietor’s behalf due to the lack of natural light coming through the facade!
As well as welcoming the likes of Michael Collins to Laurence Olivier, Cleary’s has been a favourite spot for generations of locals and visiting patrons to come together before and after matches in Croke Park, for quiet evening catch-ups, somewhere to go for a solo afternoon with a good book, and memorable weekend gatherings in a convenient central location, Cleary’s is perfect for all occasions. Renowned for our friendly bar staff and charming classic Irish pub interiors, Cleary’s incredible atmosphere cannot be beaten. While enjoying a pint of Guinness, we’re highly regarded amongst connaisseurs for our delicious stout, time flies by as you take in all of the wonderful photographs and artefacts from the 1916 Rising, War of Independence and the many faces integral to our expansive history. The walls are filled with images that not only capture Dublin’s changing image but also cement Cleary’s extraordinary identity as one of Ireland’s most interesting and impressive public houses. One whose story continues to grow with each pint poured, and conversation enjoyed.