Ireland is home to a surprising number of casinos, even though the country’s gambling laws don’t technically allow them in the traditional sense. Instead, these venues operate as private members’ clubs. By registering as a member, either long-term or for a daily fee, you can enjoy table games, poker, and slots across the country.
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Legal Gambling Age in Ireland: You need to be 18 or over to gamblin in Ireland at most land-based casino. The same age limit applies if you want to gamble at an Irish online casino or sportsbook platform.
Where To Find Land-Based Casinos in Ireland
Most Irish casinos are concentrated in Dublin, with a few notable exceptions elsewhere. While smaller than the mega-resorts you might find in Las Vegas or Macau, Ireland’s clubs offer a uniquely social atmosphere, a focus on popular table games, and plenty of character. Below, we’ll explore the leading casinos in Ireland, in alphabetical order, so you know exactly what to expect before stepping inside.
Caesars Palace Casino – Galway
Located in Galway, Caesars Palace Casino combines a friendly welcome with one of the most extensive game libraries outside Dublin. Members have access to more than 250 slot machines, poker tables, and a full range of traditional games like roulette and blackjack. What makes this spot stand out is its bingo hall, which can seat up to 200 players. Regular bingo sessions, alongside the casino tables, give the venue a community feel. Open 24 hours a day, Caesars Palace is ideal if you want entertainment that stretches into the early hours. Members also benefit from complimentary refreshments and traditional live music evenings, making this one of Ireland’s most vibrant gaming hubs.
Colossus Casino Club – Dublin
Colossus Casino Club, situated in Dublin, offers a balanced mix of classic casino gaming and modern entertainment. Members can choose from slot machines, roulette, blackjack, Brit Brag, and poker. The club also streams live sports events, making it a popular venue to combine gaming with watching the big match. The card room is spacious, and poker players will find both cash games and scheduled tournaments. While not as large as some other Dublin casinos, Colossus provides a cosy yet lively environment for players who want variety without overwhelming crowds.
D1 Club – Dublin
If you’re looking for a modern and well-equipped casino in Dublin, D1 Club fits the bill. Located on Lower Dorset Street, the club caters to both table game enthusiasts and slot players. Expect to find blackjack, roulette, punto banco, craps, and video poker, alongside daily poker tournaments that attract a loyal local following. D1 also offers something you don’t always find in smaller Irish clubs: complimentary food and drink service for members. This extra touch, combined with a stylish interior, makes the D1 Club one of Dublin’s more polished casino experiences.
Dr. Quirkey’s Good Time Emporium – Dublin
For a different flavour of casino gaming, Dr Quirkey’s Good Time Emporium on O’Connell Street is equal parts arcade and gambling hall. Adults can try their hand at poker, slots, and table games, but the minimum age here is 21+, higher than most Irish clubs. Dr Quirkey’s is also family-friendly thanks to its large video game arcade, filled with the latest machines from Konami, Sega, and Bandai Namco, plus classic ticket games for younger visitors. If you’re a serious gambler, this might not be your first choice, but for light-hearted entertainment, it’s a Dublin landmark.
Fitzpatrick’s Casino – Dublin
Fitzpatrick’s Casino has multiple locations across Ireland, but the Tallaght branch in Dublin is regarded as the flagship. Situated within the Plaza Hotel Complex, Fitzpatrick’s specialises in slots and roulette, offering a straightforward experience for those who enjoy these popular games.
Open around the clock, Fitzpatrick’s combines a sleek gaming floor with frequent prize draws and promotions for members. All games are independently audited to ensure fairness, and the venue benefits from being part of a trusted Irish brand that has built its reputation over the years.
Fitzwilliam Casino and Card Club – Dublin
Known as the Home of Live Poker in Dublin, the Fitzwilliam Casino and Card Club is a must-visit for poker players. Located in the Georgian surroundings of Lower Fitzwilliam Street, the club offers cash games and tournaments alongside roulette, blackjack, brag, and punto banco. One unique feature is that alcohol is not served on-site. While this may surprise tourists, it’s a deliberate policy to maintain a professional gaming environment. Members can expect a focused atmosphere where the quality of the card play is the main attraction.
Macau Casino Complex – Cork
Cork’s Macau Casino Complex, also known as the Macau Sporting Club, brings a slice of Las Vegas glamour to the south of Ireland. Located on St. Patrick’s Quay, it features a full suite of table games, from blackjack and roulette to three-card poker and punto banco. The real highlight is the dedicated 4,500-square-foot poker room, which regularly hosts tournaments for casual and professional players alike. Add in a wide range of slots, big-screen sports, and on-site dining, and it’s clear why Macau is Cork’s premier casino destination.
Ned Kelly’s Sportsclub & Casino – Dublin
Located in the heart of Dublin on O’Connell Street, Ned Kelly’s offers more of an entertainment arcade atmosphere than a traditional casino. Members can play roulette, slots, and table games, but there’s also snooker, pool, and table football. Named after the infamous Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly’s is ideal for a lively evening that mixes gaming with social activities. While it may not satisfy high-stakes players, it’s a fun option for those looking for variety in a relaxed setting.
The Sporting Emporium – Dublin
Opened in 2005, The Sporting Emporium has built a reputation as Dublin’s most luxurious casino. Located on South Anne Street, it’s known for its elegant interiors, professional staff, and diverse gaming selection. Members can play blackjack, roulette, Sic Bo, and punto banco, plus enjoy poker tournaments often fronted by Irish poker legend Padraig Parkinson. The Sporting Emporium also features live sports screenings and private gaming rooms, giving it the feel of a full-service entertainment venue. With its central location and premium atmosphere, it’s often the first choice for visitors seeking an authentic casino night out in Dublin.
The Irish Casino Experience
Playing at a land-based casino in Ireland is a more intimate and social experience compared to the mega-casinos abroad. You won’t find sprawling gaming floors or dozens of restaurants, but you will find welcoming staff, classic table games, and a community-focused environment. For locals, these clubs are a regular night out; for tourists, they provide a glimpse into Ireland’s unique take on casino gaming. Whether you want the polished luxury of The Sporting Emporium, the poker focus of the Fitzwilliam, or the fun arcade vibe of Dr Quirkey’s, Ireland’s casinos have something to offer.
Online Casinos in Ireland: If you you also like to gamble online while in the move via a mobile device or in the comfort of yout home on your PC, take a look at the list of Irish online casino platforms here.
FAQs About Irish Casinos
What’s the minimum age to enter Irish casinos?
Most clubs require members to be 18+, though a handful, such as Dr Quirkey’s, set the minimum at 21.
Are casinos in Ireland legal?
Casinos operate under the Gaming and Lotteries Act of 1956, but since the law doesn’t directly cover them, they function as private members’ clubs. This means that everyone who enters must register as a member, either for a long-term membership or for a single-day pass.
Do tourists need a membership?
Yes, but the process is quick and easy. Present a valid ID, such as a passport or driving licence at the door, fill in a form, and you can usually start playing right away.
Do Irish casinos serve alcohol?
Most do not, as licensing laws restrict the sale of alcohol on casino premises. Some may offer complimentary drinks, but you won’t typically find bars inside.
What games can I expect to play?
Roulette, blackjack, and poker are the most common, with some clubs also offering punto banco, Sic Bo, and a variety of slot machines. Larger venues like The Sporting Emporium and the Macau in Cork provide the widest selection.
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