The Hearsall Inn: A Quaint Haven of Irish Hospitality
February 5, 2024
Nestled on Craven Street, The Hearsall Inn stands as a vibrant tribute to Irish culture in the
heart of Coventry. This bustling family-run pub, pulsating with an unmistakable Irish charm,
offers an authentic experience that captures the spirit of the Emerald Isle.
Step into The Hearsall Inn, and you are immediately enveloped in a mosaic of Irish identity.
GAA jerseys, scarfs, and flags adorn the ceiling, creating a visual homage to Ireland. The
walls of the bar are sprawled with maps of the motherland, Surrounding patrons with a
strong sense of place. On a recent visit, shamelessly donning my Kerry jersey (up the
kingdom), I found myself at the centre of friendly inquiries about which town I hail from.
The pub's unique ability to spark conversations and connect people through their shared
Irishness is a testament to the warm and inviting atmosphere that sets The Hearsall Inn
apart.
The main event unfolds every Tuesday around 8 pm, as live traditional Irish music takes
centre stage, courtesy of the Coventry Comhaltas. With concertinas, bodhrans, violins, and
flutes littered around the pub, the air is filled with the harmonious notes of concertinas,
bodhrans, violins, and flutes, weaving a musical pattern of traditional Gaelic tunes.
Thefamily feel is palpable, with people of all ages coming together to create a lively celebration
of the homely reels that define Irish music. The rhythmic clapping, spirited jilting, and foot-
tapping create an energy that resonates through both the musicians and the pub-goers.
The Hearsall Inn, a family-run establishment since its purchase by the current owners in
1998, stands as a homage to their commitment to preserving Irish culture. Passed down
through the family, the pub is now in the hands of their sons, ensuring a continuity that
spans over two decades. The enduring partnership with the Coventry Comhaltas, spanning
16 years, reflects their dedication to keeping the Irish musical tradition alive in the
community.
Having spent a significant part of my childhood in my family’s pub in Kerry, I found the
atmosphere at The Hearsall Inn to be reminiscent of home. What may have seemed like
loitering in wait for home, now translates into a deep appreciation for the welcoming
environment fostered at The Hearsall Inn. And it really is welcome to all, my pure-blooded
English companion couldn't help but revel in the fantastic experience.
The Hearsall Inn stands not just as a pub but as a cultural home where Irish hospitality,
music, and community intertwine. Whether it's a Tuesday evening or any other day,
indulging in a pint of Guinness while immersing yourself in the best Irish music in the West
Midlands becomes an experience to cherish. For those seeking a taste of Ireland in
Coventry, The Hearsall Inn beckons as a quintessential destination.
By Kate O'Mahony
Coventry Irish Society is pleased to announce the publication of 2 new promotional films about the Charity’s work with the aim of securing a permanent Irish Heritage Centre.
Join us for a powerful and moving evening with Stephen Travers , bassist with the Miami Showband , as he shares his personal journey of survival, loss, and campaign for truth following the 1975 Miami Showband massacre – one of the darkest chapters of The Troubles. This unique event, hosted by Coventry Irish Society and supported by the Irish Government's Department of Foreign Affairs' Reconciliation Fund , explores themes of peacebuilding, resilience, and fight for truth and justice. More information on Stephen and his new book can be found here. Don't miss this opportunity to hear firsthand from a voice of history and courage. Admission is free, but places are limited – booking is required. To reserve your ticket, please book an advanced ticket through Eventbrite below. Wednesday 15 October 2025. Doors open: 6.00 PM | Event: 6.30–8.00 PM 📍 Coventry Irish Society, 2nd Floor, Eaton House, Eaton Road, Coventry CV1 2FJ
Beginners’ Irish Language Autumn Course 2025 with Dr Ian Malcolm Professional Irish language teacher and acclaimed Journalist, Dr Ian Malcolm, will deliver a bespoke online course in Beginners’ Irish. This course will consist of 5x classes and will take place entirely over Zoom on Saturday mornings, with Dr Ian Malcolm. Course details: Saturday 4 October 2025 - Saturday 1 November 2025 with 5x classes on Saturday mornings, delivered via Zoom from 10.30 am – 12.30 pm (including a 20 minute break). The fee for this course is £70. Course materials: The class will use the textbook, Irish For Beginners (which is in the link below). This book costs in the region of £7.00 - £10.00 and it is strongly recommended that students purchase their own copies in advance of the course. You can find details of the course textbook here. Please contact us at cis@covirishsoc.org.uk or telephone 024 7625 6629 to obtain a booking form. Registration closes 30 September 2025 (or when course capacity is reached). Early booking is strongly recommended.
