Historic hotel in Offaly being sold to local company

Historic Dooly's Hotel in Birr is in the process of being sold to another Birr company Canbe Ltd, owners of the County Arms in Birr, the Tribune has learned.

The sale marks the end of an era as the Grant family hands over the reins at the hotel after managing it for decades.

Eoin Garry, Managing Director of Canbe Ltd confirmed to the Tribune that his company will be the new owners and the sale will be finalised by May 6.

“The current staff in the hotel will be retained,” he commented, “and we will be using it for spillover wedding business from our other hotel the County Arms.”

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Since early 2024 there had been rumours in the town that Dooly's would be sold and used to accommodate refugees. The Canbe Director said this won't happen.

“If another company had bought it,” he remarked, “it might have happened, but not with Canbe. We are firmly committed to retaining it as a hotel.”

Dooly's dates back to 1747, when it was established as a Coaching Inn (called The Royal Arms), the same year as the construction of the Emmet Square monument. It's known for its old world charm combined with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

It offers "luxury hotel accommodation in a boutique style setting;" and has 17 guest rooms. Occupying a prominent position in the town's principal square, it stands as a strong reminder of Birr's historic and celebrated past.

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