Katie O'Brien's Irish Tavern Harrogate Irish Pub

The Ginnel, Harrogate HG1 2RB

About This Pub

Ah, Katie O'Brien's in Harrogate – what a gem of an Irish pub it is! From what I've gathered chatting about it with others, it's got this infectious energy that really pulls you in, with walls decked out in clever decor and a atmosphere that's just spot on for sinking a pint and enjoying the craic. The staff stand out as absolute stars; Shane and the team are always on form, making sure everyone feels looked after, whether it's your first visit or you're a regular. Live music and sports like GAA or the Tour de France on the telly keep things buzzing, and the drinks are handled with real care – that perfectly poured Guinness is a highlight that'll have you coming back for more. It's brilliant for group get-togethers, as seen in those birthday celebrations that went down a treat. On the flip side, though, it's a bit of a shame about the limited hours; being closed Monday to Wednesday means it's not ideal for spontaneous midweek plans, and the smart casual dress code might feel a tad strict if you're not dressed up. Plus, if you're thinking of booking for a larger crowd, it's worth sorting in advance to avoid any hassle, and it doesn't seem to focus much on food, so you might pair it with a bite from nearby. All in all, it's a solid choice for a memorable evening, but just keep those quirks in mind for the best experience – I'd say give it a go if you're in the area!

Pros and Cons

Pros

The atmosphere is absolutely spot on – it's warm, welcoming, and full of that classic Irish charm that makes you feel right at home from the get-go.
The staff are brilliant; folks like Shane go above and beyond with their friendly service, making every visit feel personal and enjoyable.
They've got live music and sports screenings on the regular, which adds a lively buzz and makes it a top spot for a fun night out with mates.
The drinks are spot on, especially the Guinness – pulled just right with that extra touch, like a shamrock on top, which is a lovely detail.
It's great for groups; whether it's a birthday bash or just catching up, the vibe is perfect for celebrations and they handle larger gatherings well.

Cons

It's only open four days a week, closed Monday to Wednesday, so if you're planning a midweek pint, you might be out of luck.
There's a smart casual dress code, which could put off anyone wanting a more relaxed look, though it's probably not a big issue in Harrogate.
Booking for bigger groups requires advance planning, and walk-ins are limited to under 15, so spontaneity might not always work out.
The hours can vary and might change, which means double-checking before heading out to avoid disappointment.
Not much mention of food options, so if you're after a proper meal with your drinks, you might need to look elsewhere.

Contact Information

The Ginnel, Harrogate HG1 2RB

+441423800420

Irish pub

Opens at 15:00

Opening Hours

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	Closed
Thursday	17:00 - 00:00
Friday (Today)	15:00 - 02:00
Saturday	12:00 - 02:00
Sunday	15:00 - 00:00

Location

Recent Reviews

If you're looking for an unforgettable night out, this bar is an absolute must-visit. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for a great time. The staff are incredibly friendly, in particular Shane who served us! The vibe is perfect— and the live music adds to the overall experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through. It is the perfect place to unwind, have great drinks, and enjoy a fantastic night out! We will be returning!

Amy Clarke

Came to O’briens for joint bday celebrations with my best mate and some friends and family. Our experience was brilliant, and massively attributed to Shane’s incredible hospitality & service, would recommend to anyone wanting a comforting Friday night in town

Kezza

Outstanding Service at Katie O'Brien's, Harrogate I had the pleasure of visiting Katie O'Brien's in Harrogate and was absolutely blown away by the exceptional service provided by Shane and Ash. From the moment we walked in, they made us feel incredibly welcome with their warm smiles and friendly attitude. The service was quick, efficient, and personal, making our visit even more enjoyable. It’s rare to find such genuine hospitality, and these two certainly made the experience memorable. If you're in Harrogate and looking for a top-notch pub experience, I highly recommend Katie O’Brien’s – and be sure to ask for Shane and Ash! They’re a credit to the bar and a shining example of excellent customer service. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jakub Palasz

Great Guinness, great bands and even greater craic!! Amazing , knowledgeable and friendly team from the door to behind the bar. Great to know they have live bands! There is a dress code I believe but not sure who would choose to wear tracksuits and trainers to go out in Harrogate so was no issue for us getting in. They also accept cash which is a bonus! Tried my first baby Guinness and loved it!! Will be returning! Thankyou ☺️☺️

Beth Woods

Wonderful pub. Ambiance is awesome. Walls are decorated with skill. Had a great pint of Murphys stout. Bartender knew how to pull it properly. Will definitely return. Got a shamrock on the pint as a bonus.

Jason Turney