The Dunadry Hotel has completed a £100,000 investment transforming its original working cellar into a new whiskey and wine experience.
The Cellar is the latest addition to the Antrim hotel, which has been part of the family-run McKeever Group since 2018.
Once the site of an ancient fort, the historic building was developed into a paper mill, and then used to mill linen, before being transformed into a hotel in 1966.
The five-month renovation project has been designed to appeal to the Dunadry Hotel’s growing number of overseas visitors, particularly those travelling from the USA, Europe and Asia.
The bespoke event space will also be made available for corporate events.
The hotel group’s managing director, Eddie McKeever, said the hospitality investment is a direct response to the explosion in whiskey production across the island, with more than 50 working distilleries now in operation.
“We wanted to be part of this revival and share in the widespread appreciation of our national spirit on our home turf,” he said.
“The renovation of The Cellar not only breathes new life into our historic building but also supports our local distilleries and artisan producers.
“The end result is an eclectic mix of the best Irish whiskeys with fine wines from the world’s top producers, all served in a charming yet sophisticated environment.
“Of course, it’s not just about the products and the setting.
“Our ‘we do more’ ethos equally applies to our Cellar experience, with staff fully trained to ensure they are knowledgeable across our entire ranges and equipped to deliver expert advice and service.”
Malachy McCollum, operations manager, who is responsible for overseeing The Cellar and its team added: “Much of this project has been driven by the changing needs of our guests and visitors – from the seasoned whiskey enthusiasts to the curious newcomers - and also from our corporate clients.
“The Cellar caters for all, offering bespoke whiskey tasting experiences, while also showcasing the rich diversity, depth and quality inherent in Ireland’s vibrant whiskey sector.”
