The Burren Way and Cliffs of Moher is an enchanting trail with iconic locations such as the karst landscape of the Burren and the imposing Cliffs of Moher. Apart from that, the hinterland of the trail is famous for its live music which still beats to the drum of an ageless Irish tempo. You will pass through colourful Irish towns like Lahinch, Liscannor and Ballyvaughan. You can expect to see ‘trad sessions’, where musicians come together to play in a pub setting. One such village is Doolin, a hotbed for traditional Irish music with the sounds of fiddles and flutes a common occurrence in its pubs. Notable traditional musicians participate there regularly, including Sharon Shannon, Davy Spillane, and Steve Wickham. Additionally, some of these pubs will serve food, and you can expect some of the finest fresh seafood Ireland. You will also find a variety of other delicious Irish produce, fresh from farm to fork. 

The Dingle Way is a dream for hikers who love to blend scenic walks with vibrant Irish culture. Inevitably, you’ll find yourself drawn to the lively pubs that dot the trail. Give in to temptation as the Peninsula is a region where the Irish language and traditional culture (including music) is alive and well. The area offers unparalleled coastal hiking by day and provides an authentic Irish pub experience by night. As you hike through rolling hills and rugged landscape, you can rest assured that the reward of some “craic agus ceol” (fun and music) awaiting you in the evening. Tralee and especially Dingle town are known for their fantastic pubs and music. It won’t take long to find a traditional music session in full swing of an evening.

Connemara and the West of Ireland is a trail that combines dramatic landscapes, fantastic walking and authentic cultural experiences. This is where “old-world” Ireland still exists, where traditional Irish music thrives and the Irish language is relatively commonplace. With a landscape that has inspired literary greats Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats, Connemara is one of the best hiking trails for pubs and music in Europe. With that rare combination don’t miss the opportunity to drop in along the way. Enjoy quality food, drinks and if you ask around you’ll find a traditional Irish music in a local, cosy, firelit pubs. The trail ends in Westport an Irish music hub of live traditional sessions. Be sure to check out Matt Molloy’s pub in the town.

The Speyside Way is renowned for its blend of Highland scenery, world-famous whisky distilleries and numerous charming pubs. Scotland’s love for singing means you’re likely to encounter live music, especially when the beer and whisky are flowing in a local bar. The trail itself is relatively gentle, featuring rolling hills, forest paths, old railway lines, and serene lakes. As you journey through picturesque villages, local pubs offer a welcoming break. Be sure to visit, as you might discover a musical gem in this rugged landscape. With over 40 distilleries, particularly around Grantown-on-Spey, a wee dram is unavoidable. This trail is a paradise for whisky connoisseurs, offering many whiskies that may not be available elsewhere.

For hikers seeking to experience the quintessential English countryside with a touch of local charm, the Cotswold Way is an ideal choice. This trail meanders through numerous picturesque villages, each boasting pubs renowned for their warmth, hospitality and charm. Music is an integral part of life in England so live local performances are often easy to find. The towns along the Cotswold Way each have unique identities; for instance, Chipping Campden hosts its own Olympics based on a 17th-century tradition! After a delightful day of hiking, relax with a pint of local ale in a cozy pub. Many pubs feature live music, especially on weekends. The Cotswold Way is perfect for hikers who appreciate both nature and the simple pleasures of English pub life.

The South West Coast Path, spanning Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, is one of the UK’s most epic walking trails. What makes it even more delightful is the chance to stop at charming pubs along the way, where you can savor Cornish Cyder, regional beers and ales, hearty food, and music. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the thriving local craft beers along the trail. You might hear the melodic strains of traditional Cornish music, noted for its similarity to that of Brittany. Cornwall’s strong Celtic traditions and its own language add to the unique experience. This makes the South West Coast Path a top pick for those seeking both adventure and the soothing sounds of traditional musical. After a day’s hike, relax with local live music in the company of friendly locals. It’s clear why this is one of the best hiking trails for pubs, food and music culture in Europe.