Castlebar’s newest venue opens

The Barrel & Castle at Linenhall Street in Castlebar held its grand opening on Friday, March 15th.

Proprietors Joe and Marian O’Malley were joined by family, friends, local business people and politicians, as well as many new customers, for the opening of the doors.

Joe’s mother Mary O’Malley cut the ribbon at 6pm outside the new front to huge applause. The impressive interior and beer garden were then revealed and those looking to celebrate St Patrick’s weekend were served in Castlebar’s newest bar and restaurant for the first time.

Having been closed for five years, the extensive refurbishment of the former Bosh premises has taken over a year, during which a huge amount of work was involved in changing the offering. The project was managed by Joe O’Malley, who along with his wife Marian, are also proprietors of the award-winning pubs, the Porter House and Cosy Joe’s Bar in Westport.

The spacious bar features two levels as well as a beer garden with its own bar and covered and heated sections. The luxurious décor is stylish and unlike anywhere else in the area.

Employing over 40 people throughout the business, the Barrel & Castle is a significant new employer in the town. Brasserie-style dining for both lunch and dinner began last week and the feedback so far has been excellent. There are cosy booths and more open seating areas as well as many comfortable stools for perching at the bar.

Joe O’Malley said: "We are delighted to be open and to be welcoming customers to our new pub in Castlebar. We have a fantastic team who have worked hard to make this a reality, including all of the local tradesmen and suppliers who worked with us in the refurbishment period.

"We have an exciting journey ahead and no doubt there will be teething problems and small challenges along the way. However, we are committed to ironing them out as quickly as possible to provide the best possible experience for our customers. We look forward to many busy years ahead in the Barrel and Castle."