Two of County Armagh’s most popular pubs have been put on the market for sale.
The Victoria Bar in Armagh is for sale by private treaty and the liquor licence is included as part of the agreement.
The long-standing establishment, at 32 Barrack Street, is owned by the Currie family.
They took over 30 years ago and just last month they posted on social media to thank staff and customers past and present for “all your commitment, support and loyalty”.
“Looking forward to the next 30 years,” they added.
On Tuesday, the premises were advertised for sale.
The Victoria Bar is being marketed by the Belfast-based Osborne King.
In its promotional material it advises prospective buyers: “The property comprises a mid terrace building of traditional construction with a slate roof which has been extended to the rear.
“The building provides ground and first floors over basement with no external space. Internally the property is traditionally finished with a public bar and lounge areas on the ground floor. Male WC’s are located off this area and female WC’s located on the lower ground via a staircase.
“The first floor lounge and darts room is accessed via a staircase located to the rear of the public bar. These two upper floor areas are finished to a basic standard with a separate counter service area.
“The lower ground is accessible from either floor via a metal staircase and provides keg and bottle storage as well as access to the rear of the property onto Little Barrack Street.”
The Off Sales – next door to the Victoria Bar and which was accessible from the premises – is not up for sale.
The Railway Bar, at William Street in Lurgan, is also for sale due to the retirement of the current owners.
The recently-refurbished premises, including bar and bistro and off-licence, is described on marketing materials as having potential for expansion to a B&B or hotel.
The agent, Martin Anderson Property, says with an excellent reputation and large customer base there are numerous opportunities for expansion awaiting the successful buyer.
It adds: “With over a century of history, The Railway Bar is a long standing and enduring part of the town’s social life.
“Beginning in the early 20th Century, the bar has offered entertainment and refreshment to generation after generation. Building on this rich heritage, a new bistro-style restaurant has been opened, providing simple and delicious food for both lunch and dinner alike.
“Recently renovated to a very high standard, the interior provides a stylish and comfortable environment that is not only tasteful and modern, but also pays tribute to the business’ storied past. Customers can enjoy their meals in the beautifully decorated lounge bistro and take in the sense of history and legacy that the building still holds.
“This independent public house and restaurant has been in current ownership for over 20 years and specialises in quality service currently targeting age groups across the spectrum.
“The business is well established with an excellent reputation and is based in an enviable location, attracting a large amount of new and repeat business from the local area.
“Successfully established and with a terrific reputation, the experienced staff offer friendly, personal and professional service to their customers, with every effort made in order to satisfy the customer’s individual requirements.
“With an excellent reputation and large customer base there are numerous opportunities for expansion awaiting the successful buyer.”
