The Clover Group has announced that it is transforming Pug Ugly’s bar in Belfast’s Linen Quarter, with a £500k investment, that sees the building being restored to its 19th century origins and reopening as The Linen Hall Bar.
The redevelopment celebrates the building’s industrial character, embracing its linen heritage and creating a traditional and authentic Belfast pub experience.
The original Linen Hall bar opened in 1981 on nearby Clarence Street, taking its name from Belfast’s proud linen heritage and the White Linen Hall that once stood on the site of City Hall. Following its closure, the licence was transferred to 21 Bedford Street the building Clover Group is now restoring.
Working closely with Clover Group, O’Donnell O’Neill Design have led the transformation of the 19th century former linen warehouse. The building has been carefully stripped back to reveal original brickwork and cast-iron columns, reinstating the industrial features that anchor it firmly within the Linen Quarter.
The announcement follows the Clover Group’s redevelopment of the iconic Clarence Chambers Building in nearby Donegall Square East last year, which built on the success of Margot and added a new late bar in the basement, RUDI.
Commenting on the announcement Mark Beirne, Director of Clover Group, said, “The reinstatement of The Linen Hall Bar reconnects the venue with the area’s linen legacy and is another important investment in a city centre building with a strong sense of place. We are committed to restoring buildings with integrity, ensuring their history is retained, while creating spaces that are vibrant, relevant and provide unique experiences for our customers.”
Graham O’Donnell, Creative Director of O’Donnell O’Neill Design, added, “The building’s rich industrial past set the tone for the restoration. The interior has been redesigned as a traditional turn of the century Belfast pub, using reclaimed materials to create a space layered with history.
“Features such as the intimate snugs and the 35-foot bar counter imbue the buildings distinguished past in the present, giving it a timeless, familiar feel.”
The bar’s offering will focus on quality stout and traditional toasties.
The Linen Hall Bar is one of ten venues that Clover Group operates in Belfast, which includes White’s Tavern, Margot,
Rudi, Henry’s and the Post House.
The Linen Hall Bar will open its doors today at 5pm, Friday, 20th February.