If there is one venue that defines the history and heartbeat of LGBTQ+ Dublin, it is undoubtedly The George. Established in 1985—eight years before the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland—this iconic bar and nightclub at 89 South Great George’s Street has evolved from a brave sanctuary into a national institution. Often referred to as the "Grand Dame" of the city, it remains the most famous and longest-running gay venue in the country.
The George is a sprawling, multi-levelled space that caters to every mood. During the day, the front bar offers a more traditional and relaxed pub atmosphere, perfect for a pint and a chat. As evening falls, the energy shifts to the main club area, featuring a large stage and an expansive dance floor that has hosted some of the most legendary drag performances in Europe.
The entertainment programme at The George is tireless and world-class. From the high-stakes fun of "Win, Lose or Drag" on Mondays to the world-renowned Sunday Night Bingo with Shirley Temple Bar—a tradition that has lasted decades—there is never a quiet night. The music policy focuses on crowd-pleasing pop and chart-topping hits, delivered by resident DJs who know exactly how to keep the dance floor moving. Whether you are there for the spectacular drag shows, the inclusive atmosphere, or simply to witness a piece of Irish social history, The George is an essential stop on any visit to Dublin.
Address:
The George
89 South Great George's Street
Dublin 2
D02 R220
Ireland
Phone:
+353 1 478 2983
Email:
info@thegeorge.ie
Website:
https://thegeorge.ie
My experience was good but I definitely witnessed the door staff not letting people in that seemed even remotely drunk. I feel like they strive to keep this a safe place but maybe a friendlier tone and demeanor at the door would make people feel a little more welcome. Bartenders were great, DJ did a good job keeping up with the vibe of the crowd. I visited on a Sunday night 11pm - closing.
Great vibes, went on a Monday night and there was great live performances. Locals lovely and easy to talk to too, the place had a great buzz about it for a weekday!
Super safe positive atmosphere/vibes. Came early on a Sunday and it was pretty lowkey with great vibes which was perfect. Drinks were about 6-9 euros each (cocktails/shots/mixed drinks). Phenomenal staff!
I have been going to the george for years, and despite the general good music and vibes, I have noticed in recent months that it has felt increasingly unsafe, especially for women. I cannot count how many times I have been sexually harassed by overly drunk men, or otherwise had to intervene when witnessing either a friend or complete stranger being taken advantage of. I have chalked up the lack of staff intervention in these cases to security being too understaffed and overwhelmed to take notice of this phenomenon, however, this past Saturday made me realise that their shortcomings are inexcusable. It has been made abundantly clear that there is a habit of turning a blind eye to the entry of overly intoxicated men, while denying entry to women who are detectably intoxicated at even the slightest level. My friend, for example, having had two drinks earlier in the night, was denied entry by a bald bouncer with a ginger beard. Despite her speaking coherently and walking perfectly fine, she was told she had to wait 30 minutes before entering. While confused about her entry being denied, our group decided to go to the local spar and wait the 30 minutes before returning, so that the bouncer could reassess. We realised that it was likely due to our friend being neurodivergent that she was refused, as she has traits (even while fully sober) that could be interpreted otherwise. However, after we returned following the 30 minute period, the bouncer (without even looking at the "overly drunk" friend) told us he had already denied us. When we explained that we waited 30 minutes and asked him to check our friend again (who was practically sober at this point) he looked at her for a second and refused us, without listening to her or assessing her state of mind in any way. This lack of procedure in checking whether or not someone is actually unsafely drunk or not truly shows, as he clearly only checked to see that she was a small woman, while allowing bigger men in, regardless of their level of drunkenness. There is a clear preference toward men being allowed in, despite this being population that has, almost every time I've visited the George, harassed either me, my friends, or a stranger. Not once in any of these cases has staff ever noticed or intervened. Due to this, I fear the George fails to deliver on the inclusivity it preaches. I truly hope management works on training security to properly gauge how sober their attendees are, as the failure to ensure the safety of their attendees, and especially of women, is despicable.
Security staff definitely need better training on how to deal with the public that frequents this venue. Security approached one of my friends in an extremely rude, disrespectful and unnecessary manner simply because he was walking across the dance floor holding a drink. He did not stop to dance. There is no clear signage or staff informing people about this rule.
My friend is one of the kindest, most gentle and respectful people I know. He was not being disruptive or rude in any way, which makes the aggressive approach even more unnecessary.
I have lived in Dublin for years and, for reasons like this, I usually avoid this place. I was only there because of a birthday celebration.
Rules may exist, but there is a clear lack of professionalism and respect in the way they are enforced. The LGBTQIA+ community goes out at night seeking welcoming and safe spaces. We already experience enough hostility in the outside world. Within these spaces, the minimum we should expect is respect and dignity.
Very disappointing experience
