Revel at The Ragg, Thurles

The public house stands at a crossroads nestled at the heart of Tipperary, known as the Ragg. Throughout the years, the name has naturally become associated with the Public House, creating an inseparable association.

The name of the Ragg dates back over the centuries and tells the tale of a renowned Tipperary landmark. Historically, the name is thought to refer to a flag or cloth to convey necessary messages, to signal for help or to give warning of danger. It is believed a flag or cloth was hoisted at the cross as a signal for the people of the area that the poitín was available in the pub and that there was revelry in the air. The Irish ‘Ragairne’ or ‘dul ar ragairne’ referring to rambling and revelling at night may well point to the origins of the name.

There is also a tale that suggests that the flag could have had a secondary meaning and one that needed to be concealed from the authorities at the time. It is believed that it may have been a warning beacon to local rebels like the United Irishmen, the Fenians or the Volunteers of the War of Independence informing them on the movements of the Crown Forces. It is possible that the Irish ‘ Rabhadh’ meaning warning signal has some connection to the name too.

Whatever the origin of the name or the meaning of the signals there is no doubt that it was and continues to be a place of significance at the very beating heart of the local community. Its name has followed down through the years to become interwoven in the history of the Parish of Drom and Inch and the folklore of its people.