Arkle Bar, Downpatrick: A Cozy Irish Pub with Vibrant Atmosphere
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, hearty food, and lively entertainment at Arkle Bar, Downpatrick’s beloved local pub.
Arkle Bar is a welcoming pub located at 17 Irish Street in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland. Known for its inviting atmosphere, authentic Irish drinks, and delicious food, it offers a lively yet comfortable setting for locals and visitors alike. Open daily from 11:30 am to 11:30 pm, it features live sports on a large LED screen, live music nights, and popular local dishes like Irish stew, making it a favorite social hub in the town.
A brief summary to Arkle Bar
- 17 Irish St, Downpatrick, BT30 6BW, GB
- +442844612934
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour to enjoy great drink specials and lively atmosphere.
- Try the traditional Irish stew, a local favorite that pairs well with the drink selection.
- Check the schedule for live music nights to experience local talent and vibrant entertainment.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as the pub can get busy during peak times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Arkle Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Arkle Bar
A Warm and Inviting Local Pub
Arkle Bar stands as a quintessential Irish pub nestled in the heart of Downpatrick. Its welcoming ambiance is shaped by a blend of friendly service, traditional pub decor, and a vibrant crowd. The interior combines cozy seating with a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both casual drinks and social gatherings. The pub’s name pays homage to the legendary Irish racehorse Arkle, reflecting a deep connection to Irish heritage and culture.Culinary Offerings and Drink Selection
The bar serves a range of authentic Irish beverages, including locally brewed beers and classic whiskies, alongside a curated menu of hearty Irish dishes. The Irish stew is a local favorite, embodying traditional flavors that complement the pub’s rustic charm. Food is available daily, with bar bites served from mid-afternoon to evening. The drink menu is carefully selected to pair well with the food, ensuring a satisfying experience for all palates.Entertainment and Social Vibe
Arkle Bar is known for its lively entertainment options. A 138-inch LED screen broadcasts major sports events such as the Premier League, Six Nations rugby, and the World Cup, offering sports fans a prime viewing experience. The pub also hosts live music nights showcasing local talent, adding to the vibrant social scene. Weekends can be busy, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.Location and Accessibility
Situated on Irish Street, the bar is easily accessible within Downpatrick’s town center. Its central location makes it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists exploring the area. The pub’s operating hours from 11:30 am to 11:30 pm every day provide ample opportunity to visit, whether for a midday meal or an evening drink.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond being a place for food and drink, Arkle Bar serves as a cultural hub where community members gather to celebrate Irish traditions and hospitality. The connection to the famous racehorse Arkle adds a layer of historical pride, linking the pub to Ireland’s rich sporting heritage. This cultural resonance enhances the pub’s character, making it more than just a typical drinking venue.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Arkle Bar can expect a mix of casual comfort and lively entertainment. The friendly staff and welcoming crowd create an atmosphere that is both relaxed and engaging. Whether enjoying a quiet drink or joining in the spirited energy of a live sports event or music night, the pub offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Irish pub culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Patrick's National Monument
4.5 km
Ireland’s tallest St Patrick statue in Saul, Downpatrick, a monumental symbol of faith, unity, and heritage with panoramic countryside views.
Kingdom of Mourne Tours
16.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Mourne Mountains with Kingdom of Mourne Tours, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.
Slieve Donard
21.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland, and embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Mourne Mountains.
Luke's Mountain
21.2 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Luke's Mountain in Newcastle, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the UK.
Chimney Rock Mountain
22.5 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and exhilarating hiking trails at Chimney Rock Mountain, a must-visit peak in Newry, Northern Ireland.
Slieve Bearnagh
23.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Slieve Bearnagh, a majestic mountain peak offering unforgettable views and adventurous hiking trails in the Mourne Mountains.
Slievelamagan
24.3 km
Explore the stunning heights of Slievelamagan in the Mourne Mountains, where breathtaking views and adventurous trails await every nature lover.
Long Seefin
24.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Long Seefin in Northern Ireland, a top hiking destination perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Slieve Meelbeg
24.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Slieve Meelbeg, a stunning mountain peak in Northern Ireland, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Ben Crom
25.4 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas and challenging trails of Ben Crom in the stunning Mourne Mountains, a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Slieve Binnian
26.9 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Slieve Binnian, a breathtaking mountain peak in the Mourne Mountains, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Spelga Reservoir
28.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Spelga Reservoir, a hidden gem in Northern Ireland, perfect for outdoor activities and peaceful retreats amidst nature.
Stormont Estate
30.7 km
Northern Ireland's iconic seat of power set within 224 acres of historic parkland and natural beauty.
Lord Kelvin Statue
31.7 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Titanic Mural/ Мурал На Стене,Титаник
32.3 km
A powerful tribute to the RMS Titanic and Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage, painted on a city wall as a memorial to those who built her and those who sailed on her.
Unmissable attractions to see
Inch Abbey
1.3 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Inch Abbey, Northern Ireland’s earliest Gothic monastery and a serene riverside landmark steeped in history and legend.
Saul Church
2.9 km
Discover the sacred site where Saint Patrick founded Ireland’s first church, a place of deep history and spiritual reflection near Downpatrick.
National Trust - Castle Ward
9.8 km
Explore Castle Ward’s unique dual-style mansion and vast estate with historic gardens, trails, Game of Thrones filming sites, and stunning Strangford Lough views.
Dundrum Castle
11.2 km
A dramatic Norman ruin on a rocky ridge, guarding views over Dundrum Bay and the Mournes, with layers of medieval history from de Courcy to the Magennises and Blundells.
Ballyhenry Island (National Trust)
11.7 km
Discover the peaceful natural beauty and rich marine wildlife of Ballyhenry Island in Strangford Lough, a serene National Trust sanctuary accessible at low tide.
National Trust - Murlough National Nature Reserve
14.2 km
Discover the stunning coastal landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Murlough National Nature Reserve, a true natural wonder near Newcastle, Northern Ireland.
Murlough Beach
14.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Murlough Beach, a natural reserve showcasing stunning dunes and spectacular views of the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Rowallane Garden
15.2 km
Explore Rowallane Garden’s stunning rhododendrons, historic walled garden, and family-friendly amenities in the heart of County Down.
Royal County Down Golf Club
16.4 km
Explore the Royal County Down Golf Club: A Premier Golf Destination with Stunning Views and Rich History in Northern Ireland.
Newcastle promenade
16.5 km
Explore the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere of Newcastle Promenade, a scenic coastal gem in Northern Ireland perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Bothy Yard
16.7 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical charm of Bothy Yard in Castlewellan, a perfect escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Slieve Croob
16.8 km
Discover Slieve Croob’s ancient cairns, sweeping views, and rich folklore at the heart of Northern Ireland’s Dromara Hills.
The Peace Maze
17.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of The Peace Maze in Castlewellan Forest Park, an inspiring journey through one of the largest hedge mazes in the world.
Castlewellan Forest Park
17.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Castlewellan Forest Park, a national forest filled with stunning landscapes and endless outdoor adventures.
Foley's Bridge
18.5 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Foley's Bridge, a scenic spot along the Shimna River, offering tranquility and stunning nature views in Newcastle, UK.
Essential places to dine
Mourne Seafood Bar
11.3 km
Experience the freshest seafood at Mourne Seafood Bar in Dundrum, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
The Maghera Inn.
15.4 km
Savor traditional flavors in a cozy setting at The Maghera Inn - where great food meets warm hospitality in Castlewellan.
The Yard Restaurant
16.6 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine in Castlewellan at The Yard Restaurant - where tradition meets taste.
J.J. Farrall’s
16.7 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at J.J. Farrall’s in Newcastle, where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like home.
The Percy French
16.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Percy French in Newcastle - where traditional flavors meet vibrant pub culture.
Brunel's Restaurant
16.9 km
Discover Brunel's Restaurant in Newcastle - where modern European cuisine meets local flavors in an unforgettable dining experience.
Villa Vinci
17.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Villa Vinci in Newcastle - where each dish celebrates the rich flavors of Italy.
Graphite
17.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Graphite in Newcastle - where fresh local ingredients meet exceptional dining.
Great Jones
17.1 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Great Jones in Newcastle - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Quinns Bar
17.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Quinns Bar in Newcastle with delightful cuisine and an extensive drink selection.
The Oak Restaurant
17.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Oak Restaurant in Newcastle – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Mariner Bar & Restaurant
17.6 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine with stunning coastal views at The Mariner Bar & Restaurant in Newcastle.
Pacha Restaurant
17.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Pacha Restaurant in Newcastle - where flavor meets stunning coastal views.
Greenans, The Square
24.0 km
Discover Greenans, The Square: A cozy lounge & steakhouse in Cabra serving delicious meals for families & travelers alike.
The Auld House
24.1 km
Discover The Auld House in Moneyreagh – where traditional Irish cuisine meets friendly service in a cozy pub setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barn Owl Boutique
16.5 km
Independent boutique blending curated gifts and distinctive clothing in rural Northern Ireland charm.
Blue Beans Gift and Craft shop
16.8 km
Explore the Artisan Wonders of Blue Beans Gift and Craft Shop in Castlewellan for Unique Jewelry, Pottery, and Local Crafts.
The Bonbon
17.4 km
Explore The Bonbon in Newcastle for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of your visit and delight those you cherish.
Down Seams
23.5 km
Expert clothing alteration services in Cabra, Newry, perfect for tourists looking to enhance their wardrobe with quality tailoring.
Simply Mourne (Formerly Mourne Pebble Design)
26.6 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Simply Mourne, where local craftsmanship meets unique gifts in the heart of Castlewellan.
Art's Shop
28.0 km
Art's Shop in Newry offers a delightful selection of groceries and local products, perfect for tourists seeking convenience and local flavors.
Ards Shopping Centre
29.4 km
Experience shopping and dining at Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards, where variety meets convenience in a friendly atmosphere.
Rosies Emporium
29.8 km
A colourful gift and homewares shop in Lisburn’s Bow Street Mall, perfect for unique presents, baby items, and stylish accessories.
Irish Shopper Ltd
30.5 km
Explore Irish Shopper Ltd in Rathfriland for unique gifts, collectibles, and souvenirs that embody the heart of Ireland.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
31.1 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Emporio
31.5 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Style For You
31.5 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Style For You, a charming clothing store in Hilltown, Newry, perfect for refreshing your wardrobe.
The Wineyard
31.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of wines at The Wineyard, the perfect stop for connoisseurs and casual drinkers in Hilltown.
SPAR Hilltown
31.6 km
Discover SPAR Hilltown, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce, baked goods, and everyday essentials in Newry. A local gem for tourists and residents alike.
Deja Vu
31.7 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arkle Bar
0.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, hearty food, and lively entertainment at Arkle Bar, Downpatrick’s beloved local pub.
Anchor Bar
9.8 km
A cozy traditional Irish pub in Killough offering hearty homemade food, friendly service, and lively local events in a charming village setting.
The Hole in the Wall
11.2 km
Historic and cozy Northern Irish pub in Strangford, famed for its warm atmosphere, live music, and authentic local charm.
Maginns
16.6 km
Discover Maginns, a cozy pub in Castlewellan offering traditional Irish cuisine, local beers, and a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable experience.
Savage's Bar
16.6 km
Discover Savage's Bar in Castlewellan, where lively Irish culture meets delicious local brews and vibrant live music.
Chaplins Bar
16.6 km
Cozy Newcastle pub blending local charm, live piano, and a nod to Charlie Chaplin for a relaxed, inviting night out.
The Library Lounge, Newcastle, County Down
17.0 km
A welcoming lounge in Newcastle offering creative cuisine, family-friendly comfort, and attentive service in a relaxed, spacious setting.
The Wild Hare
17.7 km
Discover the charm of The Wild Hare, Newcastle's inviting beer garden offering a delightful selection of drinks and stunning coastal views.
O'Hares Lounge Bars
17.9 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at O'Hares Lounge Bars in Newcastle, where good company meets great food and drinks.
Macken's Bar
18.3 km
Experience the heart of Ireland at Macken's Bar, where traditional cuisine meets coastal charm in Newcastle.
International Bar
29.5 km
A cozy, authentic Northern Irish pub in Newtownards known for warm hospitality, affordable drinks, and a timeless local atmosphere.
Parador Lodge
30.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Cutters Wharf
30.5 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Mourne View Bar
30.5 km
Experience the charm of Irish culture at Mourne View Bar in Rathfriland, a cozy pub known for its local brews and welcoming atmosphere.
Hatfield House
31.6 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Saturday Night Nightclub
29.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
Scratch Nightclub
32.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
32.3 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Cabaret Supper Club
32.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
32.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
33.2 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Ollie's Belfast
33.3 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
The Black Box
33.3 km
Explore the vibrant cultural scene at The Black Box, Belfast's premier venue for live music, art exhibitions, and community events.
Club Lux
33.4 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
33.4 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Honey
33.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Kremlin
33.7 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
33.7 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
33.7 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
33.7 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly