The Blue Light, Dublin Mountains

On the foothills of the Dublin Mountains sits The Blue Light, a quintessential example of a rural Irish pub.Located in area called Barnacullia which means ‘top of the woods’ in Irish. It has extensive views over looking Dublin City and the bay. It’s name originates from the story that during the mid 1800′s when the customs in Dun Laoghaire harbour went off duty, a light signal would be sent to this location on the hill. ‘The Blue Light’ which was an old ships lantern would then be waved to let sea smugglers know that the ‘coast was clear’ to land their booty, probably rum, tobacco, wine and brandy. The pub has three areas: the lounge, the bar and an outdoor courtyard. The bar and the lounge is divided into an upper level and lower level. At the bar the perfect pint of Guinness is at the ready. Live music every night and turf fires all day every day. What more could you want? Last time we were there it was miserable and lashing rain but inside a turf fire was burning, the Guinness was flowing and the fiddle was playing. The perfect setting to switch off and enjoy a cosy evening over a few tasty pints. Step outside and you have one of the best views of Dublin city you will find. The view is amazing both day and night and with a better garden out front, it offers the perfect get away for the smokers amongst us. In the sunshine this place is amazing, the car park doubles up as a beer garden and the craic is only mighty. When the chill comes its time to head back inside to sit back, listen to the crackle of the open fire, the sounds of laughter and enjoy the live music and soak up the atmosphere. U2 used to gig here in the late 70's and have enjoyed pints here regularly over the decades. It is rumoured Bono once wanted to buy the pub but Pat the owner was having none of it. Adam Clayton was caught with drugs here. During a routine check by the Garda in 1989 on the pub’s parking lot, they found 19g of cannabis in Adam’s care. He was charged with possession and suspicion of dealing. Though at first arrested, it ended in him getting a penalty of £25.000 Irish Pounds payable to a women’s shelter. This long standing pub has been the centre of many a good story and many a great night. Its combines nightly live music, one of the best views of Dublin, a cosy fireside setting and a taste of real Dublin banter. This bar has so much soul that they could sell it wrapped in newspaper with chips. Once you go here you will want to come back, even though its a little bit of a journey for most, its well worth it. No strangers here, just folks coming together in a common cause...a few pints and bit of chat and a drop of music in the background. Lovely stuff !