Landmark Laois pub in Portlaoise to be sold after trading ends

Nanny Kelly's had only been open for about a year

placeholder image — Nanny Kelly's had only been open for about a year

Laois owners also confirm big Dublin pub group ceases trading at Portlaoise premises

One of Portlaoise's best-known pubs is set to be put on the market, according to its owners, following the decision by a Dublin-based pub chain to cease trading at the premises.

Speaking to the Leinster Express / Laois Live outside Nanny Kelly's on Main Street, Ivor O'Loughlin said his family has decided to put the pub on the market following the departure of their most recent tenants, the Chris Kelly Group.

Mr O'Loughlin described the split as amicable and complimented the tenants on the condition of the premises on departure. he said it was unfortunate that their time in Portlaoise did not ultimately prove to be a success.

The Chris Kelly Group business chain comprises some of Dublin’s best-known landmark pubs, The Parkview Hotel in Co Wicklow, and units in New York and Marbella.

The Leinster Express / Laois Live reported in April 2024 that the group invested significantly in the new pub's decor and upgraded the kitchen. A new wood-fired pizza oven was also installed.

As to what happens next for the premises, Mr O'Loughlin said the property would be put on the market within a week. He said it has 'incredible potential'.

The O'Loughlin family have been involved in the pub/hospitality trade in Portlaoise since 1995 when Ivor's father Declan purchased what became known as O'Loughlin's Hotel on Main Street. They would go on to purchase Egan's Pub nearby.

The O'Loughlin family now run a pub in Carlow town.

After many years of trading as one of Portlaoise's best-known pubs, Egan's closed in 2014. It would reopen for a short time as The Blue Door where Mr Lillis, a former Laois GAA player, co-operated the Manhattan Mixer for a time.

Mr Lillis returned to the Portlaoise premises in 2018 when he went into Alan Clancy from the NolaClan pub group to open the business as Lilly's. Former Dublin footballer Bernard Brogan also had an involvement.

Lilly's Bar & Kitchen officially announced closure in February 2024 due to what was described as an "untenable challenging economic landscape, marked by escalating costs".

The Chris Kelly Group have been contacted for comment.