The History of J.J Walsh’s
Welcome to J.J. Walsh’s – a historic Irish pub in the heart of Cork city.
Our story begins in 1910 at 64 Oliver Plunkett Street, once known as Turner’s Hotel. Situated at the heart of Cork’s business and retail district, the hotel was adjacent to Conway’s Yard, a spacious area that once housed horse stables and, later, motor cars.
The Turner family played an important role in Cork's revolutionary movement, and the hotel became a focal point of Republican activity during the War of Independence. Jenny Turner, active in the local Cumann na mBan, was married to J.J. Walsh—a prominent figure in establishing the Irish Volunteers in Cork, former chairman of the Cork GAA County Board, and a 1916 veteran.
The doors of Turner’s Hotel have welcomed some of the most iconic figures in Irish history. Eoin MacNeill, Sir Roger Casement, Tom Barry, and Michael Collins were all guests here. In fact, Collins delivered a speech in support of the Anglo-Irish Treaty within the hotel walls, later addressing a large crowd from a top-floor window to those gathered in the street below.
In 2022, the transformation of The Grafton Bar commenced in full swing. After in-depth research and meticulous planning, J.J. Walsh’s officially opened its doors in August 2022, reviving the historic legacy of this venue on Oliver Plunkett Street and restoring it to its former grandeur. Today, it embodies everything cherished in a classic Irish pub and stands as a vibrant hub for music and nightlife in Cork.
With its storied past and vibrant present, J.J. Walsh’s captures the true spirit of Cork—a place where history, community, and celebration come together. Whether you’re here for the rich atmosphere, live music, or a perfectly crafted cocktail, we welcome you to be part of the next chapter in our legacy. Join us and experience a slice of Cork’s heritage, reimagined for today.
