McKevitt’s Carlingford: Where Tradition Meets Irish Hospitality

In the heart of the medieval village of Carlingford lies McKevitt’s Village Hotel, a family-run gem that captures the soul of Irish hospitality. Blending the warmth of a local pub, the convenience of a central location, and the charm of a traditional guesthouse, McKevitt’s is both a popular spot to dine and a cozy place to stay.

Whether you’re dropping in for a meal, enjoying live music with a pint of Guinness, or spending the night in one of its comfortable rooms, McKevitt’s Carlingford is a cornerstone of the town’s social and culinary scene — and a must-visit for anyone exploring Ireland’s ancient east.

A Family-Run Legacy

The McKevitt family has been welcoming guests to Carlingford for generations. Their commitment to friendly service, hearty food, and community spirit is evident in every corner of the hotel. Set within a beautifully restored historic building just steps from Carlingford’s harbour and medieval landmarks, McKevitt’s offers the timeless charm of old-world Ireland with the comforts modern travelers expect.

Whether you arrive as a guest or simply stop in for a meal, the atmosphere here is always inviting. Locals and visitors alike return time and again — not just for the food or beds, but for the people. The hotel staff know many repeat guests by name and are always happy to recommend a hike, a heritage site, or the best spot to watch the sunset over the lough.

The Restaurant: Flavour, Freshness, and Irish Comfort

The food at McKevitt’s is everything you’d hope for in a traditional Irish village restaurant: simple, well-executed, and deeply satisfying. With a focus on fresh local produce, especially seafood and meats from the surrounding Cooley Peninsula, the kitchen balances rustic Irish classics with modern culinary sensibilities.

Menu Highlights:

• Carlingford Mussels: Steamed in white wine, garlic, and cream, served with crusty brown soda bread
• McKevitt’s Signature Burger: Irish beef, crispy bacon, aged cheddar, and house relish on a toasted brioche bun
• Pan-Fried Hake: With seasonal vegetables, lemon butter sauce, and creamy mash — a coastal staple
• Vegetarian Pasta Primavera: With garden vegetables and basil pesto, topped with parmesan shavings
• Sticky Toffee Pudding: Moist, rich, and served with vanilla ice cream and toffee drizzle — a customer favourite

The menu changes slightly each season to reflect what’s fresh and local. Daily specials — such as seafood chowder or slow-roasted lamb — often steal the show. The restaurant also caters well to vegetarians and gluten-free diners, and there’s a thoughtful children’s menu for family-friendly dining.

The Bar: Music, Craic, and Community

The pub at McKevitt’s is the heart of the establishment. It’s where laughter echoes, stories are shared, and strangers become friends. Whether it’s midweek pints with locals or a lively Saturday night filled with traditional music, the atmosphere is welcoming and alive.

Expect:

• A rotating tap of Irish craft beers alongside classics like Guinness and Smithwick’s
• A top-notch selection of Irish whiskey and gins
• Friendly bartenders with local knowledge and charm
• Cozy seating areas and a relaxed, inclusive vibe

Live music sessions take place on weekends and during peak tourist season. These intimate performances often feature traditional Irish folk, local ballads, and the occasional singalong. If you’re lucky, you might catch spontaneous storytelling or music sessions led by guests themselves.

Accommodation: Stay in the Heart of Carlingford

With 14 ensuite guest rooms, McKevitt’s Village Hotel offers intimate and comfortable accommodation just minutes from the town’s top attractions. The rooms are clean, cozy, and tastefully decorated in a traditional Irish style — think wooden furnishings, warm colours, and soft linens.

In-room amenities include:

• Flat-screen TV, tea and coffee station, hairdryer
• Free high-speed Wi-Fi
• Crisp linens, blackout curtains, and plush duvets
• Ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries
• Some rooms offering views of Slieve Foy or Carlingford Lough

Rates include a hearty Irish breakfast, served downstairs in the restaurant. Expect rashers, sausages, eggs, tomatoes, beans, toast, cereals, yogurt, and locally brewed coffee or tea — all cooked fresh and served with a smile.

The hotel’s location in the town centre means you can walk to everything: Carlingford Castle, Skypark, the Greenway trail, boutiques, cafes, and even the ferry port if you’re hopping to Greencastle.

Who McKevitt’s is Perfect For

McKevitt’s is versatile and welcoming to all kinds of travelers:

• Couples looking for a warm, romantic base with access to the village and nature walks
• Families who want a no-fuss, central location with kid-friendly food and short walks to nearby fun
• Groups visiting for hen or stag weekends, reunions, or hiking trips
• Solo travellers seeking safety, community, and conversation over a pint

It’s also an ideal venue for small weddings, retirement parties, and intimate celebrations, with private dining space and flexible catering packages available.

Insider Tips for a Better Stay

• Book early during summer — the 14 rooms fill quickly during school breaks, holidays, and Carlingford festivals
• Request a front-facing room for views over the town square or the lough
• Ask about live music nights or holiday events if you’re visiting over a weekend
• Don’t miss the full Irish breakfast — it’s considered one of the best in town
• Check for meal deals — occasional packages include dinner + B&B rates

How to Get There

McKevitt’s is located in the heart of Carlingford village, just off Dundalk Street:

• From Dublin: About 1 hour 15 minutes by car via the M1
• From Belfast: Around 1 hour 10 minutes
• By bus: Bus Eireann routes serve nearby Dundalk, with connections to Carlingford

There’s limited on-site parking, but several nearby public lots are free or low cost. The hotel is within easy walking distance of most town attractions.

Final Thoughts

McKevitt’s Carlingford is the kind of place where you instantly feel at home. It offers the best of Ireland’s small-town hospitality — genuine smiles, unpretentious comfort, good food, and nights filled with music and laughter.

In a town rich with history and beauty, McKevitt’s stands out not by being flashy or upscale, but by being consistent, grounded, and welcoming. It’s the kind of place you remember — and return to — whenever you’re back in Carlingford.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a celebration, or just need a cozy bed after exploring the Cooley Peninsula, McKevitt’s Village Hotel delivers a truly Irish experience — warm, relaxed, and filled with heart.