Last Orders Please! Abbey Goes Under The Hammer
It has welcomed the late Princess Grace and Prince Rainier of Monaco, the late Ted Kennedy and cinematic stars such as John Wayne, Katherine Hepburn and Robert Redford. Its stage has hosted The Dubliners, The Chieftains and Christy Moore.
But for locals, it is simply The Abbey.
Now after four generations of being owned and operated by the Tobin family, the landmark Abbey Tavern is being offered to the market at a guide price of €1.75 million by agent John Ryan of licensed property specialists Bagnall Doyle MacMahon. The sale of the property, which traces its origins as a tavern to the 16th century, is expected to attract interest from Ireland and overseas.
The Abbey is famed for its history and is a cornerstone of Howth’s heritage and its cut-stone walls, flagstone floors and wafting turf fires have always had a familiar, welcoming feel for all who pass it.
Commenting on the sale, auctioneer John Ryan said: “This is a unique opportunity to acquire a world-renowned licensed premises steeped in history and Irish heritage. The Abbey Tavern has an excellent reputation for the quality of its food, drink and service and enjoys a high volume of annual food and drink turnover. It won the Best Dublin Food Pub in the 2018 Irish Pub Awards and its world-famous traditional Irish show features the very best of Irish entertainment and music and has a capacity of 220 people theatre style.”
For locals, it will be a sad day when the Tobin family finally hand over the keys. They have been wonderful curators of the heritage within the walls, and ensured a convivial atmosphere, a welcome smile and the best pint of plain for all who passed through its doors.
We would like to wish Richard, the Tobin family and all the staff well and here’s hoping that the next owners share the same sense of respect and reverence for the living legacy that has been left us all.
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