Skip to content

About Us

Three generations. A warm welcome since 1960.

Whelans Bar has been part of life in Newcastle West since John Whelan first opened its doors in 1960. His son Pat continued the family tradition, and today third-generation brothers Gearoid and Brian Whelan carry it forward.

A warm welcome remains at the heart of Whelans. From locals catching up over a drink to visitors discovering the town, the bar brings people together through weekly live music, sport, weekday lunch and time in the beer garden.

The front of Whelans Bar on Maiden Street, Newcastle West, in daylight
The traditional interior of Whelans Bar, with warm wood fittings and relaxed seating

Our family story

A family tradition on Maiden Street

Since John Whelan first opened the doors in 1960, Whelans Bar has been part of life in Newcastle West. His son Pat continued that tradition, and today Gearoid and Brian Whelan carry it into a third generation.

From familiar faces to first-time visitors, a warm welcome remains at the heart of the bar. The family's care for the place and its people is the same today as when John first pulled a pint here.

Life at Whelans

A traditional bar with something for everyone

A warm, traditional bar where the welcome is genuine. Settle in for weekly live music, watch the match across fifteen TV screens, enjoy weekday lunch and step out to the beer garden when the weather's grand.

Relaxed outdoor seating in the Whelans Bar beer garden

Come in and make yourself at home

Locals, visitors and groups are all welcome

Whether you're a familiar face from around Newcastle West or a visitor discovering the town for the first time, you'll find a warm welcome at Whelans. We're happy to host visiting groups and tour buses too.