Donegal pubs named in ‘20 perfect pubs’ people may not have heard of in Ireland

A pair of Donegal pubs have been named in a Go Ireland List 2026 feature, as one of 20 perfect pubs people may not have heard of in Ireland.

Biddy’s O’Barnes in the Barnesmore Gap was the first pub listed in the Irish Independent feature, along with Conways Bar in Ramelton, which was listed seventh.

Over 50 people “deeply immersed” in Irish travel, food and culture were involved in compiling the list to highlight what they thought should be better known in 2026.

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The article praised “that Biddy’s smell” of Biddy’s O’Barnes, which has been run by Aaron and Megan Slevin for over a decade. 

Biddy’s O’Barnes was described as “a landmark pub firmly on the food map” and “loved by locals and visitors from near and far.”

The article described Conways as a “picture-postcard thatched Irish cottage pub is about as traditional as it gets” and that the resident dog and friendly staff “add to the charm.”