Taaffes Bar authentic medieval style complete with swords, knights in shining Armour and banquette hall located in the heart of the Castle is the perfect location to leave the modern day behind. Taaffes Bar is the only location in Carlingford with two separate court yards for those sunny days and a separate Sport viewing area for those sporting fans.

The wonderful, rugged medieval remnants of Taaffe’s Castle bar make for spectacular exterior, not to mention one of the most charismatic beer gardens around. You will also get a right royal welcome inside from the staff.It is hard to miss the place – the towering 16th century grey stone keep of the fortification stands supremely in the centre of Carlingford, just across the border in Co Louth. However when you enter through the adjacent quaint village pub where cozy traditional elements such as the soothing coal fire and old black and white pictures stare -back at the central curving bar.In contrast to its spectacular sidekick outside – the main bar on the corner of Market Street and Newry Street – tales on an enjoyable, but less grandiose, style.It is very much in keeping with the rural, cottage-style bars of the 1950’s in which sitting with a creamy pint of plain’ comes easy.

Taaffes is a relaxing spot with a child friendly atmosphere for a casual Sunday afternoon stop off. However, upstairs things certainly get a bit racier on Saturdays and Sundays when the stag and hen parties descend on the disco.It really seems built to cater for such functions so be ready for plenty of cowgirls in pink hats and brides in L-plates taking the dance floor by storm – not to mention blokes in the corner looking like they are having last minute re-thinks. You are much better off hanging around the two beer gardens, whether it be the courtyard or the “secret garden” within the castle walls. The garden is a great chill-out spot, where live bands are the order of the day throughout the summer and groups can even request a barbecue if they give advance notice. Therefore you can dine, as well as live like a king.