The Wilton Bar & Restaurant in Bishopstown, Cork, is set to reopen on St Patrick’s weekend under new ownership, The Clancys Group. The group, led by Paul Montgomery, plans a €1 million refurbishment to transform the venue into a destination spot while retaining its role as a local bar.
A new Chapter for The Wilton
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Paul montgomery, owner of Clancys on Princes Street, JJ Walsh’s Irish bar on Oliver Plunkett Street, Mamacitas on Marlboro Street, and Wilde on Oliver Plunkett Street, acquired The Wilton in December 2023, coinciding with the birth of his daughter, Hanóra May Montgomery. the Peters family previously owned and operated the bar for 36 years.Montgomery emphasized his commitment to preserving the venue’s character while introducing “spectacular changes.”
expansion Plans and Entertainment Focus
The refurbishment will focus on expanding live music offerings, including Irish music, DJs, and other genres, drawing on the success of Montgomery’s other establishments. The Wilton will also maintain a strong food focus, with the introduction of new ‘Saints and Sinners’ menu options – offering both lighter and more indulgent meals – currently being launched at Clancys. Montgomery explained the menu aims to provide value, with options around the €16 price point for a meal within 40 minutes. Irish Examiner
Sports will remain a key element,with plans to integrate the balcony area more fully into the bar and continue providing a venue for watching matches. Montgomery described the vision as creating a space that blends an “old world drinking bar” with a modern “destination venue.”
Strategic Location and Community Connection
Montgomery highlighted the strategic location of The Wilton, noting its proximity to Cork University Hospital (with 5,500 staff), the shopping centre, and the local church. He believes the venue can become a central hub for the Bishopstown area, which currently lacks a defined centre. He also noted that the building was previously the subject of a €10 million bid during the Celtic Tiger era, indicating its inherent potential. Irish Examiner
clancys Group Expansion
The Clancys Group currently employs 170 staff across its various venues. Shane Spillane, operations director, and dave Daly, director of sales and marketing, will oversee the refurbishment project. Montgomery’s previous ventures include the Reardens complex developed in the late 1990s and the Western Star pub, his first Cork establishment over 30 years ago. He originates from co Clare.
Key Takeaways
- The Wilton Bar & Restaurant has been acquired by The Clancys Group.
- A €1 million refurbishment is planned, focusing on entertainment and food options.
- The venue will retain its local bar atmosphere while becoming a destination spot.
- The strategic location near Cork University Hospital and other amenities is seen as a key advantage.