VIDEO: Cheers as Ireland’s highest pub rises from the ashes

Like the mythical phoenix rising from the ashes, a popular public house was back in business last night, having been rebuilt following a fire two years ago.

The Top of Coom — claimed to be Ireland’s highest pub in a mountainous area between Kilgarvan, Co Kerry, and Coolea, Co Cork — has been a feature on the rugged landscape for 168 years.

It was burned to the ground in May 2012, with fifth-generation owners Tim and Eileen Creedon and their four children, who lived over the premises, losing all their possessions.

“It’s been very tough and it wouldn’t have been possible to rebuild only for the support and generosity of family, friends, and the local community,” said Eileen Creedon, taking a break from pulling pints.

“We’re beyond being excited at this stage and are delighted to be welcoming back the locals and all our customers who tell us they missed us. The nearest pubs are seven miles away, either side of us.”

Nor would Eileen brook any counter-claims to being the country’s most elevated pub at more than 1,000ft over sea level, saying that her pub’s status had been confirmed by 2007’s Ordinance Survey.

The landmark hostelry can trace its history to 1846, when it started as a shebeen (unlicensed drinking venue) and the first licence was granted in 1891 to Tim Creedon’s great-great-grandmother, Ellen Creedon.

It has been in the family since then.

The new Top of Coom is similar in design to the old pub, with an open turf fire and the addition of a function room for parties and small celebrations.

“We set out to retain the character and atmosphere of the place and our builders have done a very good job,” said Eileen.

Sheep and cattle farmers, walkers, and tourists form a mixed clientele and conversations can range from the price of lambs to the impacts of climate change and the weather.

The venue straddles the Cork-Kerry border, so the banter rises in tempo and volume coming up to Munster football finals.

However, all were united in raising a glasses to a new era in the Top of Coom last night, with sports broadcaster Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh leading the celebrations.