T J Newman's / Newmans West

Just up the hill from the harbour, this characterful and delightfully old-fashioned little pub has been a special home-from-home for regular visitors, especially sailors up from the harbour, as long as anyone can remember.

The premises was bought by John and Bridie D'Alton in 2003 but, although Kitty Newman will always be missed by those who knew her, the old bar remains much as it always has been and remains the most popular pub in the town.

However, the D'Altons' café/winebar, Newman's West, which replaced the old off-licence, has very successfully widened the informal dining options in Schull.

Offering lovely food and great value in immaculate premises, they have a second first-floor room that doubles as an art gallery, and provide newspapers for a leisurely browse over an excellent cup of coffee.

A cleverly thought out menu offers all sorts of tempting bits and pieces, notably the Newman's West Gourmet Choice and delicious desserts.

Every tourist town should have a place like this.