First look: State-of-the-art refurbishment transforms Northern Ireland bar into top music venue..'we wanted to create something unique'

Londonderry’s The Bentley Bar has unveiled a major refurbishment, creating a music-themed space designed to elevate the local entertainment scene while supporting employment.

The extensive redevelopment, delivered entirely by local contractors, generated around 50 construction jobs and bolstered the local supply chain. The investment also secures existing roles at the venue and strengthens employment across The Bentley Group, which now operates six locations in Londonderry, employing over 300 people.

The newly renovated Level One features a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system tailored for live performance, along with a significantly enlarged stage and new DJ booth. Visitors are greeted by a striking 40-foot LED-controlled guitar stretching across the ceiling, portraits of music legends including The Beatles, David Bowie, Freddie Mercury and Jimi Hendrix, rock memorabilia, embedded album covers, and a distinctive jukebox lift.

Operating as an eatery by day and a full entertainment venue by night, The Bentley will host live performances seven nights a week. Programming will include open mic nights for local talent, ticketed tribute acts, and larger-scale shows, offering Derry a venue with production quality more typically seen in larger cities.

“This redevelopment wasn’t just about upgrading a venue – it was about putting investment back into the city,” said a Bentley Group spokesperson.

“From the local contractors who built it to the local artists who will perform here every week, the project supports jobs, creativity and the wider community. We wanted to create something unique for Londonderry/Derry - a proper music venue with production quality you would normally only experience in much larger cities.”

Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council added: “It’s been an iconic bar in the city, now in its eighteenth year, so I would like to take the opportunity to wish the owners and management staff all the very best for the future.

"It adds to the fabric of the society here in the city and I’m sure there will be many tourists who will come visit here and of course it provides much needed employment for the city as well so I wish them all the best.”

With its bold new design, cutting-edge technology, and full weekly entertainment programme, The Bentley Bar aims to become the North West’s central hub for live music, nightlife, and culture.