Let the blog be gin (as in gin the drink because jokes are funnier when they’re explained). Ahhh Limerick, a place so well versed in culture that the pubs double up as nightclubs. Picture it, you’re going on a night out but not sure if you want a night in the pub or a night out bopping (as the kids say) to a few tunes. Thanks to these places you have the option of both. These places include: Angel Lane, Mollies, Smyths Icon and of course the mecca of Limerick nightlife – Costellos.

First choice is Angel Lane – Situated on Robert street, it is referred to as the second home to first years. There are 3 floors but the top floor is only open if its full enough. It has been described by my Limerick housemates as “diirrrrty”. With each floor playing a different genre and €3 Mondays, frequent Angel Lane goers are referred to as exorcists because they don’t leave the place til all of the spirits are gone.

Next up is Smyths Icon (Or known as D’Icon by Limerick locals): Situated on Denmark street, once you’ve got past the bouncers you enter an open space showcasing local limerick bands that bring crowds in by the droves. There is a different area for ordering cocktails that is one of the main selling points for Smyths, highly recommended to anyone in their 20s. Let’s move on to the nightclub –  Icon is a large dancefloor with flashing lights and smoke coming out from the floor, like a game of laser tag without the guns but still has the scoring.

Then there is Mollies: A three floor creche essentially, located on Ellen street. With bouncers that don’t care if people are under 18 ,cheap alcohol, and bathrooms without locks it has been described by my housemates as “grimey”. On the other hand the alcohol is reasonably priced, on each floor there is a different ‘vibe’,with the bottom floor being ‘dubh le daoine’ with people who claim to play county football. The middle floor is as empty as a trocaire box in Cavan. The top floor is occupied by the people who were turned away from Angel Lane. Therefore, it would not be a recommendation.

Then finally there is Costies: Costies, a place so loved it earned its own blog post. With a downstairs bar that the alternative crowd love, and also an array of smoking areas to choose from.  Cheap €5 entry and a variety of beers on tap to choose from, then an upstairs with the infamous sticky carpet and the same playlist that has the regulars pumped up as soon as they hear ‘don’t look back in anger’. A fan favourite that is a must for a night out.

Wash your hands, stay safe, and drink it in.