A lot of the pubs in the North Strand/Ballybough area could be a little intimidating, as it is quite a rough area and most of the pubs seem very much strictly for the locals, match days aside, of course.
Annesley House is the exception to this rule. It's true that the bar downstairs is quiet with just a few of the regulars most nights of the week, but upstairs is one of the best live-music venues in Dublin. Over the years there have been a number of legendary trad sessions in the place, but Annesley House also hosts alternative and indie bands. It's usually a tenner or less in, and the pints are reasonably priced by pub standards, which makes them practically free compared to other music venues.
It's a pity that more people don't know about Annesley House, it is one of the city's absolute gems, and if you're from Dublin and call yourself a muso without having ever been there, you'd want to get yourself over there sharpish and experience one of the best (and definitely cheapest) musical experiences around. read more