Premier Hospitality

McKendry’s Lounge + Bar

McKendry’s
Written by Roma Publications

McKendry’s Lounge + Bar

Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort has officially opened its doors to the resort’s newly refurbished and refreshed entertainment offering, McKendry’s Lounge/Bar.

Formerly known as Gillies Bar & Grill, McKendry’s is now a whiskey lover’s haven, boasting an encyclopaedic whiskey collection of over 300 blends from 21 countries, including a coveted limited-edition bottle of the most expensive Irish whiskey ever produced, “The Chosen.”

The new whiskey lounge/bar reflects the warm ambience and atmosphere of an eclectic Irish pub and draws on its local heritage, harking back to the much-loved McKendry’s bar of a bygone era, which served the local community from its premises in Broughshane Street, before closing its doors.

Cheah Rothe Design Studio were engaged to develop the vision set out by the owners – ‘give us a bar that feels like it’s always been a part of the hotel and that will still be there for our kids to enjoy in 20, 30 or even 50 years’ time!’.

To this end the designers worked closely with the hotel and the contractors, Abbey Specialist Joinery and Fit Out of Carrickfergus. Architectural materials and artefacts were sourced from various salvage yards and these supplemented some architectural antiques the hotel already owned. Artisan specialist decorators were employed to delicately age various elements or the bar, so the artefacts blended seamlessly into the scheme.

Welcoming Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort’s newest hospitality investment, Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome guests to our brand new lounge bar, McKendry’s, and showcase our extensive whiskey collection which we are proud to say is one of the most comprehensive in the island of Ireland.

“The launch of McKendry’s represents the latest investment by Galgorm into its resort offering and reflects our ambition to continually innovate and push boundaries to affirm our position as a world-leading spa and gold resort. We look forward to welcoming guests, locals and visitors alike to experience the warm hospitality of McKendry’s.”

Offering guests, the warm welcome synonymous with Galgorm, the new name perfectly connects the resort with its strong local heritage. Much of the décor consists of historical items from the original McKendry’s bar and provides guests with an authentic Irish bar experience.

As well as boasting some rare whiskies and stocking the finest mixers, Galgorm has devised the resort with its strong local heritage. Much of the décor consists of historical items from the original McKendry’s bar and provides guests with an authentic Irish bar experience.

For a truly authentic taste, guests can also sample the resorts first premium own label ‘Galgorm Estate Gin,’ developed in partnership with Northern Ireland’s newest artisan gin producer, Copeland Distillery, and drink in the fantastic new line up of live entertainment.

McKendry’s Lounge/bar is open 12pm until 01:00am Sunday to Friday and 12pm until late on Saturdays, with live entertainment every evening, including traditional Irish music every Tuesday and Thursday night.

About Galgorm Spa & Gold Resort

Galgorm Spa * Golf Resort is a four-star hotel offering all the trappings of a country estate, along with unadulterated, award-winning luxury. Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is Northern Ireland’s Premier luxury hotel and spa. Set within 163 acres of lush parkland with the spectacular River Maine flowing through the estate, Galgorm has a truly unique setting.

Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of nature and experience pure relaxation in the Spa and Thermal Village with an extensive selection of riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas. The resort also boasts a selection of restaurants & bars and extensive conference and banqueting facilities.

For more information on McKendry’s Lounge/Bar, please visit: www.galgorm.com

 

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Roma Publications