Watchorn family buys historic Doolan’s bar

Waterford’s historic T&H Doolan’s inn has been bought by a bar and hospitality family from the south-east for over €500,000 at a lively auction.

The new owners are the Watchorn family, whose interest include the Dylan Whiskey Bar in Kilkenny — handily ‘scotching’ pre-auction rumours that UK pub chain Wetherspoons had a deal done on it.

Confirming the purchase, Sean Watchorn said he was delighted to have bought such a piece of history, reckoning it was one of the country’s oldest hostelries, with a pedigree back to the 1400s.

“It’s great news for us, there’s so much negativity out there generally, but we are delighted to have bought it, and it is very positive news too for the people of Waterford,” stated Mr Watchorn, whose father Michael is also in the trade in Kilkenny, naming his Dylan Whiskey bar after singer Bob Dylan.

T&H Doolans, Georges Street, will be further invested in by the family before reopening, added Sean Watchorn.

Selling agent John Rohan had guided it at €330,000 prior to public auction, and a number of bidders showed interest. Two went above €450,000 for the chance to buy such an historic property, which made €520,000.

“Being one of Ireland’s oldest pubs, it truly is unique, not just in age but in style and authentic character, so we weren’t surprised it generated such great interest, even from overseas,” noted Mr Rohan.

The property was sold on the instructions of receiver Ken Fennell, of kavanaghfennell.

* Details: Sherry FitzGerald John Rohan, 051–843880