THE Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort has opened the doors to a newly refurbished entertainment offering McKendry’s lounge and bar, which was formerly known as Gillies bar & grill and which is renamed in a nod to a famous hostelry in nearby Ballymena.
A whiskey lover’s haven, its boasts a collection of more than 300 whiskey blends from 21 countries, including a coveted limited-edition bottle of the most expensive Irish whiskey ever produced The Chosen (a 27-year-old single malt, distilled in 1991 and of which only 100 bottles were ever produced).
The new space 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 in Ballymena before closing its doors.
Resort owners the Hill brothers acquired the pub in the 1990s and although they swept away the old venue in a flurry of redevelopment, they kept the memorabilia that had adorned the walls in McKendry’s and these will now be displayed in the new bar at Galgorm.
Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection managing director, said: “We're delighted to welcome guests to our brand new lounge bar and showcase one of the most comprehensive whiskey collections on the island of Ireland.
“This latest investment by Galgorm reflects our ambition to continually innovate and push boundaries to affirm our position as a world-leading spa and golf resort. We look forward to welcoming guests, locals and visitors alike to experience the warm hospitality of McKendry’s.”
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 a new signature whiskey cocktail list to complement its existing range of premium cocktails, wines, beers and spirits.
Guests can also sample the resort’s first premium own-label Galgorm Estate Gin, developed in partnership with the north’s newest artisan gin producer Copeland Distillery.
