THE DROPPING WELL

THE DROPPING WELL PUB INCLUDING BOXER MAHER [AND ROSIE AT THE WELL SCULPTURE]

At the front of the pub, Boxer Maher’s public bar offers old-fashioned drinking surroundings with wood and bric-a-brac recreating the style of a Victorian watering hole. Their well loved bar has a roaring fire for those cold winter evenings, all the biggest sporting occasions are shown on our HD TV’s and we have fantastic traditional music sessions every other weekend.

Boxer Maher refers to Peter Maher, a renowned Irish boxer known for his powerful punch and impressive career. Born in County Galway in 1869, he rose to prominence in the late 19th century, winning the Irish Middleweight and Heavyweight Championships before moving to the United States.  

In 1895, Maher claimed the disputed World Heavyweight Championship title, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable fighter. Although his reign was short-lived, he continued to be a top contender for several years, captivating audiences with his strength and skill.  

Maher's legacy as a boxing legend endures, and he is remembered as one of Ireland's most successful pugilists.


The Dropping Well Pub, nestled on the banks of the River Dodder in Milltown, Dublin, has a history as unique and captivating as its name. Its origins are intrinsically linked to one of the darkest periods in Irish history – the Great Famine of 1845-1849.

In 1847, as the famine reached its peak in Dublin, the city was overwhelmed by disease and death. It was during this bleak time that John Howe and his wife approached the authorities with a grim proposal. They offered to establish a 'Community Morgue' on the banks of the Dodder, in exchange for a liquor license. Their request was granted, and thus, The Dropping Well opened its doors in July 1847.

Though licensed as a pub, its primary function was far more sombre. The pub served as a place where the bodies of famine victims, often found floating in the River Dodder, were brought and prepared for burial. The pub's name, The Dropping Well, is believed to be a chilling reference to this practice.

Over the years, the pub transitioned from its grim beginnings to become a beloved local establishment. It has seen eight different ownerships since its inception, each contributing to its rich tapestry of history. Today, The Dropping Well stands as a testament to Dublin's resilience and ability to overcome adversity. It is a place where locals and visitors alike can gather, share stories, and raise a glass to the past, while celebrating the present.