'We knew it had great strengths and enormous potential': Northern Ireland hospitality group unveils £600,000 cocktail bar concept at Co Armagh hotel

Northern Ireland hospitality group McKeever Hotels has unveiled plans for a new cocktail-led venue at Armagh City Hotel as part of a wider £4 million investment programme.

The Meridian will be inspired by Armagh’s internationally recognised heritage in astronomy, timekeeping and navigation, with the venue taking its name from the historic Meridian Line and its association with Armagh Observatory.

The project represents a £600,000 investment and has been developed by Belfast-based Drinksology, the brand and experience specialists behind New York’s multi award-winning Dead Rabbit bar. The team has also worked on projects including the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and London.

McKeever Hotels has appointed Carrickfergus-based McCue Fit-Out to deliver the project. The contractor has previously worked on hospitality and visitor experience developments including Claridge’s Hotel, Ivy Group and Titanic Belfast.

Eddie McKeever, managing director of McKeever Hotels, said the investment followed research into demand for a new hospitality offering in Armagh.

“When we bought this hotel over a year ago, we knew it had great strengths and enormous potential,” he explained. “Our research also revealed clear demand for a premium bar which would offer a different type of experience and act as a natural draw for locals, as well as hotel guests.

“We’ve brought in the best team to deliver this important restorative project and help elevate the hotel to a new level. We want The Meridian to become one of the region’s most talked about hospitality destinations.”

Work is now underway on the venue, which is expected to open in early winter and will have capacity for 120 guests. The development will include The Constellation Room, a dedicated space for premium spirit and wine tastings, as well as a private dining area. The venue will also place an emphasis on sourcing from local producers and brands.

The cocktail menu is being developed by Greg Buda, former director of education at The Dead Rabbit and a recognised figure in international hospitality training.

Alan Stewart, head of business development, McCue Fit-Out continued: “Having worked with McKeevers to deliver the Whiskey Cellar in The Dunadry, we’re delighted to bring the same level of craftsmanship, quality and design to The Meridian. We look forward to working with the Drinksology team to see this innovative venue come to life in the months ahead.”

Andrew O’Doherty, architect and experiential designer at Drinksology, said the concept had been shaped by Armagh’s history of discovery and scientific achievement: “The Meridian has been inspired by Armagh’s long-standing connection to discovery, navigation and measurement of time. Every element of the design has been developed to tell that story, creating a venue that feels distinctive, immersive and authentically connected to the city.

“Our vision is for The Meridian to become a place where people gather, connect and create lasting memories.”