South Pole Inn
About This Spot
Stepping into the South Pole Inn is like crossing a quietly inviting threshold into a world where rich local history meets the timeless warmth of an Irish pub. Nestled on Lower Main Street in Ardrinane, this welcoming spot carries the gentle rhythms of a small village gathering place—unhurried, friendly, and imbued with stories whispered from the worn wooden beams to the well-loved bar stools.
The atmosphere unfolds with a subtle sense of discovery: walls adorned with memorabilia recalling the intrepid Antarctic explorer Tom Crean invite you to pause, linger, and reflect. There’s a tangible connection here—not just to the past, but to the spirit of adventure and endurance that runs like a thread through the village’s heritage. Guests often find themselves drawn into this narrative, whether quietly reading the exhibits or chatting with staff who seem genuinely happy to share their local pride and knowledge.
As the conversations hum around you, the menu gracefully echoes the comfortable, unpretentious vibe of the place. From the rich, velvety warmth of a perfectly poured Irish coffee to the satisfying heartiness of seafood chowder and a pint of Guinness, each dish and drink feels thoughtfully integrated into the experience, offering nourishment that feels both familiar and connected to place. The South Pole Inn doesn’t rush you—whether you’re settling in for a simple chicken burger, savoring something more deeply traditional like lamb shank, or indulging in the sticky toffee pudding that quietly signals a lovingly crafted meal.
Out back, a small garden offers a quiet refuge where the hum of the pub softens and nature takes over—a reminder of the serene landscape that cradles this part of Kerry. Here, the warmth of the pub’s interior spills out gently beneath an open sky, inviting locals and visitors alike to share in moments that feel unforced and deeply genuine.
Whether you’re drawn by the historical echoes, the carefully curated local flavors, or the simple joy of an Irish pub that feels like a home away from home, the South Pole Inn offers a layer of connection—a place to sit, savor, and quietly absorb the stories of the past while making a few of your own.
What’s Available Here
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Has wheelchair-accessible car park
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Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Has wheelchair-accessible seating
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Has outdoor seating
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Serves dine-in
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No delivery
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Has fireplace
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Has great beer selection
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Serves great cocktails
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Serves great coffee
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Serves great dessert
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Has great tea selection
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Has live music
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Has live performances
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Popular for lunch
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Popular for dinner
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Good for solo dining
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Serves alcohol
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Serves beer
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Serves cocktails
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Serves coffee
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Serves food
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Serves food at bar
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Quick bite
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Serves spirits
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Serves wine
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Serves brunch
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Serves lunch
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Serves dinner
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Has catering
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Serves dessert
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Has seating
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Has bar on site
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Has toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Trendy
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Good for groups
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Popular with tourists
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Accepts credit cards
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Accepts debit cards
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Accepts NFC mobile payments
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs available
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Has kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Dogs allowed
Leah 20 Dec 2025
Absolutely delicious food in a local bar with so much history attached to it! Staff were incredibly friendly. Shout out to Nell! Great service. Delicious food! Vegetarian options! The wings are a 10/10.
Matty Blayney 18 Dec 2025
Great traditional pub in lovely surroundings. The history of Tom Crean was brilliant to see and so well laid out throughout the bar. I got lost just reading all about his exploits all over again. The drink was great too!
A J (Lexi) 05 Dec 2025
Came because an artist I follow on IG recommend it (Mike McLaughlin, Mike's Artworks...art pictured). Was pretty good. The lamb tasted a bit different compared to other places. Not certain if it was a seasoning or what. Lovely area and decor. Nice little backyard where people were camping by a stream. Sept 3 2024.
John Tuohy 15 Nov 2025
Great for food when touring the Dingle peninsula. A must for history fans. The South Pole expedition memorabilia is excellent. Check out the little memorial garden across the road for Tom Crean and local involvement in the Irish War of Independence history.
Mary Ehr 01 Nov 2025
We visited this restaurant in Annascaul, Ireland, and I enjoyed it very much. The food was excellent, and the story telling was great! I learned a lot about Tom Cream, the Antarctic explorer. The stories were so interesting! I would highly recommend a visit to the South Pole Inn in Ireland.
Kim Lewis 28 Oct 2025
What an incredible experience! The Irish Coffee was unreal good! The story of Tom Crean was the highlight of my day! Gary, another door will open. Never doubt the difference you made. Smile because it happened! Sending all the prayers, love, and good vibes.
Yoshiaki Ito (yoshiakiito.com) 20 Oct 2025
My friend and I stopped by the South Pole Inn and had the vegetable soup—simple, warm, and comforting. Surrounded by photos and memorabilia of Antarctic explorer Tom Crean, it made the meal a memorable experience.
Colm Dalton 01 Oct 2025
A unique backstory to this wonderful spot. Part pub, part restaurant, part musuem. Some lovely Local craft beers on show, and a lego replica of the ship Endurance. I'm visiting every Irish Pub in the world, so I could not miss Tom Creans wonderful addition. Don't miss it