Barfly: the Drift Inn, Buncrana

This traditional bar built in the former train station in Buncrana in Inishowen, Co Donegal, is beautiful inside and out

Barfly: Bowes, Fleet Street, Dublin 2

Some 227 whiskey bottles beckon from across the bar and, as well as every shade of Irish, you’ll find an enviable collection of Scottish, Bourbon and great Japanese brands.

Barfly: Nancy’s, Ardara, Co Donegal

Seven generations of the same family have run this incredibly cosy landmark pub, perched on the Wild Atlantic Way

Barfly: the Cobblestone in Dublin’s Smithfield

It’s hard to imagine the art of Irish song under any kind of threat after a session at this pub

Barfly: Nora Murphy’s Bar, Brandon, Co Kerry

The view from its front door is beautiful and there’s always a great welcome inside

Barfly: The Long Hall, Georges St, Dublin

There are few pubs in Dublin that can match this great Victorian relic

Barfly: Osbornes Bar, Rathanna, Co Carlow

The interior has been returned to its peak yet the passing of time is captured on every surface

Barfly: Graces, Rathmines, Dublin

Its currency is space for conversation, comfort, a welcome for musicians and excellent service

Barfly: Grogan’s Castle Lounge, 15 William St South, Dublin 2

Established in 1899, Grogan’s has held its position as a refuge for the literary and the lost since the 1970s

Barfly: Lily Finnegan’s, Whitestown, Carlingford, Co Louth

Along the winding country roads of the Cooley Peninsula, this is a pub you could easily call home