Pubs are out of the question for those seeking an alcoholic drink on Good Friday but there are some options.

Under the Intoxicating Liquor Act of 1927 most licensed premises are barred from opening but those eating in a hotel restaurant can have a drink with their meal.

However, restaurateurs said there was no correlation between this and bookings on Good Friday.

Those who travel by rail, air or sea on Good Friday can, if they wish, drink while travelling or at train station bars, although a valid ticket is required.

Those partial to a tipple during a night at the dogs are also in luck, as are theatre-goers and, of course, those who had the foresight to provision themselves with ample supermarket supplies in advance of the day-long prohibition.

Occasional attempts have been made to host Bring Your Own Beer events in some restaurants, but the practice is discouraged by vintners’ associations.