The Blue Light: Dublin's Mountaintop Pub

The Blue Light isn't just a pub; it's a Dublin landmark steeped in history and boasting unparalleled views. Perched atop Barnacullia, which translates to 'top of the woods' in Irish, the pub stands 700 feet above sea level, offering a panoramic vista of Dublin Bay and the surrounding countryside. Established around 1870, The Blue Light's origins are intertwined with the area's history of quarrying and, more intriguingly, smuggling. Legend has it that in the mid-1800s, locals devised a system to evade British customs officers, lighting a blue ship's lantern to signal to smugglers that the coast was clear to bring contraband ashore. This illicit history gave the pub its distinctive name. Today, The Blue Light retains its traditional Irish charm, with a stone-built structure, a turf fire, and an inviting atmosphere. It's renowned for its lively music sessions, often featuring traditional Irish tunes, and a wide selection of beers, including Guinness, and Irish whiskeys. The pub also serves hearty pub fare, perfect for warming up after a hike in the Dublin Mountains. The pub's connection to music extends beyond traditional sessions; U2 frequented The Blue Light in their early days, and Bono is rumored to have once considered buying it. Another U2 story involves Adam Clayton's 1989 arrest for drug possession in the pub's car park, adding a touch of rock 'n' roll notoriety to its history. Whether you're drawn by the history, the music, the craic, or simply the stunning views, The Blue Light offers an authentic and unforgettable Dublin experience.