Known for its annual celebration of Saint Patrick, lush green landscape that meets cliffs at the ocean, and rich culture, Ireland has many attractions. These work to bring over seven million tourists to the region each year.
Amongst these explorers (and, of course, the locals), plenty want to test out Leprechaun luck and try their hand at gambling in the country. After all, what could match a pot full of gold and a memorable vacation with a large jackpot win?
However, gambling in the country isn’t as straightforward as one may think, especially since the Gambling and Lotteries Act of 1959 strictly prohibits gambling in the country. This may seem strange, considering many casinos are located across the country.
So, how do these casinos do it – and which are the best to visit? Let’s look at how these gambling venues operate and which ones you should play at if you plan to visit the area.
Casino vs Gambling Club
As mentioned, the Gambling and Lotteries Act of 1959 outlawed the establishment of any casino or gambling centre. However, the law only mentions these as commercial gambling venues and doesn’t state anything about private gambling clubs.
This grey area within the law allows casinos in the region to operate. All visitors to one of these casinos must register a membership with the casino before being allowed to play. For day visitors or tourists, even day memberships can be attained.
Having all players be members allows the casino to register as a private (or member-only) gambling den – something not explicitly mentioned in the provisions of the law. As such, the gambling activities at these venues are perfectly legal, and you won’t get into any trouble if you want to try winning some extra spending money.
The downside to this arrangement is that Irish casinos are significantly smaller than those found elsewhere. They also tend to have older games and equipment than other countries. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some fantastic casinos.
The Sporting Emporium Casino (Dublin)
One of the country’s largest and most established casinos is the Sporting Emporium. It was opened in 2005 and has garnered a name for itself as a top casino. Surprisingly, however, it doesn’t offer one of the things that most punters will be seeking – slots. Instead of slots, the casino offers a selection of table games. These include roulette, blackjack, sic bo, brag, and punto banco. It is also home to the only Money Wheel game in the country and features live sports for those looking to bet on their favourite games.
Poker players aren’t forgotten, as the casino has several poker tables. Numerous tournaments are held throughout the year, including events in collaboration with Irish poker icon Padraig Parkinson.
Membership is open to anyone that is over the age of 18. As with most casinos, you must provide proof of identity to register as a member. You can do this before you visit via the casino’s website.
Dr Quirkey’s Good Time Emporium (Dublin)
Voted the best casino in Ireland at the 2022 World Casino Awards, Dr Quirkey’s Good Time Emporium is not what you may expect. With multiple locations in Dublin, it is a great place to visit for gamblers and non-gamblers alike.
The casino offers fantastic gambling opportunities that range from numerous slots to poker, blackjack, roulette, and video poker. The casino is also known for running incredible promotions via its social media. The bonus amount in these promotions varies but is always worthwhile.
For those not looking to gamble, the “Good Time” slogan of the casino’s name rings true because there are various other games to enjoy. These include ski ball, dance battle games, racing simulators, and arcade games by Sega, Bandai Namco, and the legendary Konami. The casino doesn’t specifically mention any form of membership. However, you must be over 18 years old to enter the premises.
Jester’s Casino (Dublin)
Previously known as Fitzpatrick’s Casino Group, Jester’s Casino is one of Ireland’s most prominent casino groups and even has an online casino operated out of Curacao. With three physical locations, the flagship location is found in Dublin and offers spectacular gambling opportunities.
The casino features the latest slot machines and auto roulette. However, if you’re looking for other table games, you’ll need to visit one of the other casinos in the city.
To compensate for this, the casino offers progressive-jackpot slots and daily draws every two hours. Winners of these draws can choose to open a mystery box or spin the iconic Wheel of Fortune.
Membership can be applied for online and is free of charge. However, unlike the other casinos, you must be 21 or older to acquire membership.
Macau Casino Complex (Cork)
Taking its name from the world’s gambling capital, the Macau Casino Complex hosts many fun ways to play, including slots, blackjack, roulette, punto banco, and poker. The casino also hosts multiple tournaments to compete in.
Membership requirements include that you need to be above 18 years of age.
D1 Club Casino (Dublin)
D1 Club Casino is a bustling casino offering almost every gambling opportunity you could be looking for. The casino offers multiple slots alongside electronic roulette and live-dealer games like poker, blackjack, craps, and roulette.
You can apply to be a member online if you’re over 18 years old.
Carlton Casino Club (Dublin)
Located in the old Carlton Cinema building, the Carlton Casino Club is more than its impressive setting. The casino also holds numerous slot games and offers table games like brag poker, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and poker.
All guests will need to register as a member and need to be above 18 years of age.