Established
Trading on Winthrop Street since 1842. The building had been a stable for the General Post Office's horses — the GPO still stands across Oliver Plunkett Street.
WINTHROP STREET, CORK
The façade of this building is articulated and enhanced by the decorative render detail. The channelled render, moulded render architraves, pediments and panels were clearly executed by skilled craftsmen, and are features which are becoming increasingly rare in the urban landscape. The scale and form of the building make a positive contribution to the streetscape.
Reviewed pub lore
Established
Trading on Winthrop Street since 1842. The building had been a stable for the General Post Office's horses — the GPO still stands across Oliver Plunkett Street.
Family
The Moynihan family bought the bar in 1927 and have run it ever since.
Earlier uses
Stable. Then a 19th-century pub favoured by British soldiers — which is why the Long Valley survived intact when the Black and Tans burned much of central Cork in 1920.
Architecture
The bomb-proof wooden counter is original. So are the hand-crafted tables, the stucco-glass panel partition, and the floor tiles. The snug carries etched-glass doors and chased-silver doorknobs salvaged from the *Celtic*, a White Star ocean liner.
Food
Famous for its 'doorstep' sandwiches — slabs of bread thicker than the floor tiles, served with a pint of Murphy's. The combination is the bar's signature.
Regulars
Humphrey Moynahan — the long-time proprietor — wore a customary white apron and was known for playing German marching music while serving the sandwiches.
Reputation
A Cork institution. One of the city's most thoroughly-loved pubs, photographed and written about more than most.
Community memories
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