Best seats at Vicar Street - balcony, floor or standing?

Vicar Street opened in 1998 and was extended in 2002. It has been named Irish Music Venue of the Year five times, and Tommy Tiernan played his show Loose here 166 times, a record for a solo run. The room is the reason: big enough for a headliner, small enough that nobody is far away.

Two layouts, one room

The venue switches between two set-ups:

• Seated, the usual set-up for comedy: about 1,050 seats.
• Standing, for louder gigs: up to 1,500 people.

Your ticket tells you which one you are getting. Check before you buy, because a "seated" Vicar Street night and a "standing" one are not the same experience.

Seated shows: go upstairs

This is the one firm tip regulars repeat. Downstairs seating is on the flat, so from the middle rows back you are watching the stage between other people's heads. One reviewer said it plainly: standing is great, but seated downstairs means peering past heads, so sit upstairs.

The balcony has raised rows, and reviewers say the view is good from any row. The front row of the balcony is the pick: a seat-view report from block F, row A rated both sightline and sound as good. The balcony rail also works as a ledge for your drink, which matters in a venue where you can take your glass in for most shows.

Downstairs is still worth it in the first few rows, especially for comedy, where eye contact with the comedian is half the fun.

Standing gigs: the floor

For a standing show, the floor is where the noise is. The room is not deep, so even from the back near the bar you see the stage. If you want to be at the barrier, be on Thomas Street before doors open. If the show sells balcony seats as well, that ticket gives you the view without the crush.

Practical tips for the night

• The five bars open at 19:00 and stay open after the show.
• Aiken Promotions says children under 5 are not admitted and under-18s must be with an adult unless stated otherwise.
• Wheelchair and access tickets are sold through Ticketmaster or the promoter's office. Tell Aiken Promotions about your needs in advance: staff can give priority entry and a platform with a companion space where possible.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capacity of Vicar Street?

About 1,050 seated and 1,500 standing, according to the venue.

Is the balcony at Vicar Street good?

Yes. Reviewers say you see the stage well from any row upstairs, and the front row is the best seat for a seated show.

Is Vicar Street seated or standing?

Both: it depends on the show. Your ticket says whether the night is seated (about 1,050) or standing (up to 1,500).

Can you bring a drink to your seat at Vicar Street?

For most shows, yes, according to the venue. Some artists ask for a drink-free room, so follow the staff.