What better way to start this journey off then with a run and review of what is well known as one of, if not the very best place for a pint of Guinness in Ireland. (aka the world). I first saw this place through a few “Guinness Connoisseurs” that I follow along with on social media. This is consistently ranking among the top spots for a pint.
The Run
Let’s start with the run though. In total it was 8.81 miles just about straight through the heart of Dublin city, coming south to north, as Gravediggers is up by the Glasnevin cemetery. Views included, but weren’t limited to; St. Patrick’s Cathedral, The Guinness Storehouse, and the River Liffey. You’d be hard pressed to find a running route with more history passed than this one. I’m not one to pay attention to pace much, but this was about 9:33 per mile, which I seem to be decent enough given the route taken. Cause while the run through the city provided plenty of stimulation for the eyes, there were downsides in the form of busy streets and having to wait for the walk sign to turn green to cross the street. Thus, hurting the pace a little bit. I also needed to be much more attentive than a park or trail run. Mainly so I wouldn’t get hit by a car, but also because cars are coming from the opposite direction than I am used to. Overall cool city views but the streets aren’t ideal for a run.
The Pub
Now to move on to the pub. John Kavanaghs aka ‘Gravediggers’. Officially called john Kavanaghs, it got its nickname due to being right besides the famous Glasnevin Cemetery. Beginning in the mid 1800’s, the gravediggers in the cemetery would frequent the place for their post-work pints, and the nickname has stuck. There’s your guy’s little history tidbit of the day. Don’t expect there to be more where that came from. The inside of the place is very cool, almost everything wooden and very old and used-looking. In the best way. It is a very no-nonsense pub with no music or TV’s, simply conversation, which is fantastic. Not to say it’s quiet inside though, full of the noise of lively chatter.
I opted for a Guinness of course. While I’m not one to notice the differences between a Guinness in two different places, this was delightful. I missed splitting the G on my first go but I wasn’t too bothered because I just figured I could get it on my 2nd attempt…. Or my 6th. After a standing Guinness at the bar, I moved to the other side, into the lounge area for a bowl of their famous Dublin Coddle. Coddle is essentially a stew made up of leftovers. It contains a broth with pork on the bone, potatoes, sausages, and some vegetables. While it might put some people off, I thought it was delicious and I would order it again. I was seated at a table for 4 by myself as it was the only one available and so they briefly seated a lady with me. She was Spanish and was trying to order her drink but didn’t know any English. Having taken Spanish in high school, I decided to help out. “Que quieres beber” I said. “Vino blanco” came her reply. So, I turned to the waitress and told her, “She said she wants a Guinness please.”
Rating
Pros: Great Guinness, cool pub atmosphere, great/historic city views, good running weather (cloudy no rain)
Cons: No seat in pub after nearly 9 miles, Busy city streets; not good running paths, was solo and would’ve been better with company.
I know it’s the first ever run and pub rating but I have a feeling this one will stand the test of time.
OVERALL SCORE- 9.1