Connollys of Leap, located on Main Street in the village of Leap, Co. Cork, Ireland, is a storied venue with a rich and colorful history that stretches back over a century. Originally established as a pub and guesthouse in the early 20th century, the venue has been stewarded by the Connolly family for generations, becoming a cornerstone of West Cork’s vibrant social and musical landscape.

Through the decades, Connollys has undergone several transformations, adapting its space from a cozy rural pub to an intimate live music hub renowned for its eclectic programming and unique atmosphere. The venue closed for a period in 2006, but was lovingly refurbished and reopened in 2015 by Sam Connolly, the third generation of the family, who revitalized the space while maintaining its original character. Over the years, Connollys of Leap has garnered a sterling reputation not just as a local meeting spot, but as a culturally significant institution within Ireland’s music scene, lauded for its warm acoustics and its ability to attract legendary acts and fervent audiences alike.

The building itself, having retained much of its historic charm, now features an expanded stage and enhanced facilities, all while preserving the intimate feel that makes every performance memorable. Its legacy as a focal point for creativity, community, and artistic expression has made Connollys a beloved landmark, drawing visitors from around Ireland and beyond to experience its singular blend of rural hospitality and world-class music. Notable artists who have graced the stage at Connollys of Leap include Irish luminaries such as Christy Moore, The Frank and Walters, John Spillane, and Lisa Hannigan, as well as international acts like Donovan, Blindboy Boatclub, and The Staves.

The venue has also played host to rising local talents and genre-spanning performers, further cementing its status as a crucible for innovative and celebrated music in the region.