Damien Joyce, Clifden businessman, is associated with DMJE Ventures Limited, a company with interests in commercial property and hospitality in Galway and Dublin. One of the most recognised venues linked to DMJE Ventures is Lowry’s Bar, a traditional Irish pub located in the centre of Clifden. This profile examines Lowry’s Bar, its position within the local area, its focus on traditional music and whiskey, and the national awards it has received.
Voted Best Traditional Bar in Ireland in 2019 at the Irish Bar of the Year Awards, Lowry’s Bar is top-rated on Tripadvisor and recommended by Lonely Planet. Led by Damien Joyce, Lowry’s Bar owner, and situated in the heart of the lively town of Clifden in County Connemara, Galway, this iconic Irish pub is famous throughout the region and beyond for its legendary Irish music, inviting character, vibrant mix of patrons, and warm and friendly atmosphere.
Widely acclaimed as one of the best traditional bars in all of Ireland, Lowry’s Bar presents live Irish music seven nights a week in season as well as boasting the largest selection of whiskey and gin in Connemara. Having achieved consistently top-class reviews on Tripadvisor, the venue is a must for anyone keen to experience an authentic taste of true Irish hospitality.
Known as the home of Irish music in Clifden, Lowry’s Bar prides itself on presenting the best in Irish live entertainment, which forms the beating heart of any true Irish pub. With live music seven nights a week, both visitors and locals alike flock to Lowry’s Bar to enjoy a traditional Irish music pub experience. In addition to its extensive drinks menu, Lowry’s Bar also offers wholesome, delicious pub food, having indulged patrons with the essence of traditional Irish hospitality for more than half a century.
Situated in County Connemara on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the town of Clifden has something for everyone. Lying within an area of outstanding natural beauty, it is a great base from which to explore by driving along the famous Sky Road, one of the most spectacular routes in the country. Families can enjoy pony trekking adventures nearby or a trip to Clifden Castle, exploring its beautiful ruins and enjoying spectacular views.
For the more adventurous visitor, Real Adventures Connemara offers a range of outdoor activities including hill walking, kayaking, surfing, coasteering and rock climbing. Following a day exploring, where better to relax, unwind and recharge the batteries than Lowry’s Bar, with its warming Irish coffee, tap Guinness and hot whiskey?
Taking great pride in its whiskey, Lowry’s Bar carries more than 150 different types, ranging from more contemporary, well-known brands to rare old-aged Irish whiskeys, presenting the prime opportunity for connoisseurs to compare and contrast their whiskey tasting experience. The history of Irish whiskey dates back to the 12th century, with the word ‘whiskey’ derived from the Gaelic term ‘uisce beatha’, meaning ‘water of life’. One of Europe’s earliest distilled drinks, Irish whiskey is believed to have been invented by monks, although some historians contend that it was the invading Moors who discovered, or rediscovered, the elixir. Whiskey was first mentioned in Irish literature in 1405. As of 2024, Irish whiskey exports were valued at over €1 billion.
Over the years, Lowry’s Bar has been recognised with numerous coveted industry awards, including winning Best Tourist Bar in Ireland at the Irish Pub Awards in 2024. Lowry’s Bar was also the proud recipient of the National Hospitality Awards’ Best Traditional Bar in Ireland award in 2015 and 2018.