16/05/2026
We love to see a small pub find its spark again 😊🍺
Not so long ago, Paddy Mac’s on Main Street in Coachford was just a quiet village local. But since Aileen O’Donovan took it over last July, things have changed.
Now, there’s music. There’s comedy. There’s something happening most nights of the week. In the heart of the Lee Valley, this pub has become more than just somewhere to have a drink. It’s become a proper community hub with a bi-weekly open mic where local musicians and singers meet up to jam. There’s a book club, board games, a smartphone quiz and music bingo every second week and a bingo night on Thursdays.
They even sponsor the local drama group, The Coachford Players, who put on shows in the bar.
Warm, cosy and genuinely welcoming, it’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a coffee and one of “Mammy’s scones” (delicious), or linger over a very affordable lunch (they serve a lovely €6 toastie 🥪) without feeling rushed out the door.
As if that wasn’t enough character to soak up, visitors will also encounter two rather special regulars of the furry variety 🐶🐾🐕
“I have two dogs that basically work all day with me (they sleep all day because they are both old).” Aileen told Yay Cork.
“They are very popular with the staff and customers.” 🥰
