Iconic Mayo pub named among top 10 bars in Ireland
The iconic pub is an Erris institution.
A landmark Mayo pub has been named as one of the top 10 in the country.
McDonnells bar in Belmullet came in at number six in the top 50 list compiled by the Sunday Times.
The legendary Barrack Street pub is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Known locally as ‘The Lobster Pot’ (because once you go in you can never get out!), McDonnell’s has been an Erris institution for more than 80 years. Established in 1942, by Michael and Elizabeth McDonnell, the bar has become part of the fabric of Belmullet.
The Sunday Times list lauded McDonnells for its “perfect pints, live music and crackling turf fire.” It was also praised for its “ability to draw international visitors” to the incredible watering hole.
Owner Padraic Conroy maintains the rich traditions started by his grandparents more than eight decades ago.
Padraic credits the tutelage he received from his family for the pub’s success and said the latest plaudits are recognition of what an amazing place Belmullet and Erris is.
“It’s more of an accolade for the area than McDonnells. We would never have survived, been established, or had success without the support of the local people first of all,” said Padraic.
“This is about people working collectively to enhance the area. In my own estimation the Erris region has an awful lot to offer,” he added.
See Tuesday’s Western People for more on this Erris success story.
