12th century pub, still going strong

Word to the wise: Those with a good pair of lungs and a confident disposition should drop in on Sunday between 3.30pm and 6.30pm, when customers are invited to sing along with a band.

Popular plate: Fairly decent food is available; predictably, the beef and Guinness stew is popular.

Anywhere that advertises itself as the oldest pub in Ireland is inevitably going to be a tourist magnet, especially when it's just down the road from Ireland's number one visitor attraction, the Guinness Storehouse.

However, with its open fires, cosy nooks, cobbled courtyard, traditional live music and cheery staff, the Brazen Head still has its charms. Famous former customers include Brendan Behan - is there a drinking establishment in Dublin in which he was not a regular? - and Joyce, who featured the pub in 'Ulysees'. Revolutionaries Daniel O'Connell, Wolfe Tone and Michael Collins also had a tipple or two here.