Our Story

Rooted in Celtic Heritage, Inspired by Legend

Every great pub has a story, and ours begins with a shared heritage and a little Celtic mythology.

For Dave and Maryann, The Waterhorse Irish Pub is a reflection of their ancestral roots in both Ireland and Scotland. With a deep appreciation for the traditions, culture, and hospitality of their Celtic heritage, they envisioned a place that would capture the warmth and welcoming spirit of a traditional Irish pub.

Even the name has a story of its own.

The Waterhorse takes its inspiration from two legendary creatures of Celtic folklore: the Irish Each-Uisce (pronounced "akh ish-ka") and the Scottish Kelpie, both known as the Water Horse.

In Irish folklore, the Each-Uisce is a mysterious and formidable water spirit, often appearing as a magnificent horse, believed to inhabit Ireland's lakes and seas. Its Scottish counterpart, the Kelpie, is an equally enchanting creature, said to dwell in the lochs, rivers, and waterways of Scotland.

These mythical water horses have captured imaginations for centuries, appearing in stories passed down through generations. Beautiful yet mysterious, alluring yet powerful, they embody the magic, wonder, and sometimes darker side of Celtic mythology.

For Dave and Maryann, the shared legends of the Each-Uisce and Kelpie offered a fitting connection between their Irish and Scottish ancestry. The name The Waterhorse celebrates that common heritage and the rich traditions of storytelling that continue to connect the two cultures.

From those roots, The Waterhorse Irish Pub was born — a place where Celtic tradition meets New Hampshire hospitality, where good food and properly poured pints bring people together, and where conversation and friendship are always encouraged.

For Dave and Maryann, The Waterhorse is about more than owning a pub. It's about creating a gathering place with character, warmth, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Whether you're stopping in for a meal, sharing a pint with old friends, or making a few new ones, you're part of the continuing story of The Waterhorse.

Céad Míle Fáilte — A Hundred Thousand Welcomes.

Good Food. Proper Pints. Great Company.

Mission Statement

At The Waterhorse Irish Pub, our mission is to bring the warmth, character, and hospitality of a traditional Irish pub to the heart of our community. We are dedicated to serving quality food, properly poured pints, and memorable experiences in a welcoming atmosphere where friends gather, families connect, and strangers become friends.

We believe great hospitality is about more than food and drink. It's about making everyone who walks through our doors feel genuinely welcome.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to be more than just a place to eat and drink. We strive to be a cherished gathering place where Irish tradition meets New Hampshire hospitality, where community is celebrated, friendships are built, and lasting memories are made.

We aspire to preserve the spirit of the traditional Irish pub while continually improving the experience we offer our guests, our employees, and the community we proudly serve.

Good Food. Great Company. Something for Everyone.

From hearty Irish-inspired dishes to classic pub favorites and lighter fare, The Waterhorse offers something for every appetite. Our menu features a wide variety of flavorful options, including gluten-free choices, because everyone deserves a great meal.

Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or gathering with friends and family, you'll find good food and genuine Irish hospitality waiting for you.

Proper Pints. Crafted Cocktails. Cheers for Everyone.

From properly poured Irish pints and fine whiskeys to wines and handcrafted cocktails, there's something for every taste at The Waterhorse.

Prefer something without alcohol? Enjoy our selection of nonalcoholic beers, creative mocktails, juices, sodas, coffee, and tea.

Whatever fills your glass, it's the good company that makes it special.

Sláinte!

Meet The Team

The People Behind the Hospitality

At The Waterhorse Irish Pub, great hospitality begins with great people. Our team is the heart and soul of the pub, bringing dedication, personality, and a genuine love of what they do to every guest experience.

From the kitchen to the bar and everywhere in between, we're proud of the people who make The Waterhorse a welcoming place to gather, share a laugh, and feel right at home.

Get to know the friendly faces who make it all happen!

Information

Waterhorse Irish Pub
361 Central Street
Franklin, NH 03235
(603) 671-7118
contact-us@thewaterhorsepub.com

Ordering

Hours

Mon 3:00-8:00
Tue 3:00-8:00
Wed 12:00-9:00
Thu 12:00-9:00
Fri 12:00-10:00
Sat 12:00-10:00
Sun Brunch 11:00-4:00
Sun Dinner 4:00-8:00
Closed: Easter
  Thanksgiving
  Christmas