Legendary Mayo pub that has been an institution for more than 80 years is for sale
The iconic pub is an Erris institution.
An iconic Mayo public house has been put on the market.
McDonnells bar in Belmullet is for sale. The legendary Barrack Street pub and adjoining residential premises are being brought to market by Sherry Fitzgerald Crowley.
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 couple were natives of Crossmolina who worked together in McIntyre’s in Belmullet.
They went on to purchase the pub which also included a drapery store for the then sizeable sum of €620.
Their grandson Padraig Conroy inherited the premises in 2002 and continued the family tradition at a pub which is renowned for its warm welcome. A sign on the wall reads – ‘There are no strangers here, only friends you have yet to meet.’ There is likely to be much sadness if the premises changes hands. ‘Like selling a shrine,’ was one remark on social media following news of the sale.
As well as being beloved by locals, McDonnell’s has charmed and bewitched visitors to Erris for generations.
McDonnell’s recently made the headlines when Mamma Mia star Dominic Cooper was captured belting out karaoke in the popular pub earlier this year. The actor visited McDonnells with the cast and crew of a movie being filmed in the area.
