Pub of the Year award for Thomondgate’s JJ Bowles

Rioghna and Aengus D’Arcy of JJ Bowles with their Pub of the Year award.

Thomondgate pub JJ Bowles is celebrating this week having been awarded Pub of the Year 2024 at the Munster finals of the Irish Restaurant Awards held at the Killarney Great Southern.  

JJ Bowles was chosen after nominations from the general public and following visits from the judging panel.

Established in 1794, JJ Bowles is widely regarded as Limerick’s oldest pub, and is somewhat of a hidden gem, with its river terrace boasting spectacular views of King John’s Castle and direct access to the River Shannon – unique amongst Limerick pubs. 

The cosy interior and traditional décor ensure there’s always a warm welcome at Bowles’s, and if you still need a reason to visit, then try the “Best Pint of Guinness”, as awarded by none other than the Guinness Guru!

Aengus D’Arcy, owner of JJ Bowles, speaking after accepting the award, said: “We are delighted to have won the Pub of the Year. Many thanks to all who nominated us and a huge thanks to our hard working staff who make it all possible. 

Sign up for the weekly Limerick Post newsletter

“Besides the setting and the atmosphere, I think one of the attractions for people is that it’s a family business, with literally everyone helping out on busy days, including our youngest daughter Kate, who is just 13. Long may it last!”

Advertisement