Overview
Nestled on the seafront of Larne, the Olderfleet Hotel—now operating as the Olderfleet Bar & Garden Venue—offers a vibrant mix of history, hospitality and coastal charm. Owned by the McNeill family for over twenty years, the venue has been meticulously refurbished, delivering a sleek indoor bar and restaurant while preserving the building’s 19th‑century character. Its award‑winning beer garden, pet‑friendly Tanqueray Garden, and regular live music make it a focal point for locals and visitors alike.
History
The story begins in 1878 when James Chaine, the visionary behind Larne’s bustling harbour, commissioned the Olderfleet Hotel to accommodate sea‑travelers arriving at the nearby port. Designed by architect Samuel Patrick Close, the three‑storey hotel stood as a gateway between the town and the Irish Sea. Over the decades the building changed hands, survived the turbulence of the 1798 United Irishmen uprising, and eventually fell into disuse as a hotel. In the early 20th century the structure was replaced by a public house, retaining the historic name.
In the late 1990s the McNeill family acquired the property. Their commitment to revitalising the venue culminated in a series of modern refurbishments that transformed the original bar and restaurant into a contemporary gastro‑pub while respecting the heritage façade. The venue now proudly displays two recent accolades: Modern Gastro Pub of the Year – Regional Ulster Winner 2023 and Award‑Winning Beer Garden 2024, both presented at the Yes Chef Awards.
What to See & Do
Dining & Drinks
The restaurant showcases the best of local produce, with head chef Pol Shields (formerly Gareth Weir) crafting dishes that echo the sea’s bounty. Signature items include a celebrated seafood chowder, seasonal shellfish platters and inventive vegetarian options. A dedicated cocktail menu, curated by the bar team, features both classic concoctions and house‑made creations such as the Tanqueray Garden spritz, served in the pet‑friendly garden area.
The Beer Garden & Tanqueray Garden
Spanning one of County Antrim’s largest outdoor spaces, the beer garden is a summer‑time haven. Wooden tables, string lights and a real log/coal fire create a relaxed atmosphere for al fresco dining. Dogs are welcome in the Tanqueray Garden, where owners can enjoy a drink while their pets mingle with fellow four‑legged visitors.
Live Entertainment & Events
Every Friday and Saturday, and on selected Sundays and bank holidays, the venue hosts live music ranging from acoustic folk to upbeat local bands. The upstairs “Coast” area—complete with a balcony overlooking the harbour—offers a stylish setting for private functions such as weddings, christenings, birthday parties and funeral receptions.
Nearby Attractions
The Olderfleet Bar sits within walking distance of several historic and scenic sites:
- Olderfleet Castle (0.1 mi) – the ruined 4‑storey tower house that gave the venue its name.
- Chaine Memorial Tower (0.5 mi) – a 27 m granite round‑tower commemorating James Chaine.
- Larne Promenade (0.6 mi) – a pleasant waterfront walk.
- Larne Museum & Arts Centre (0.9 mi) – housed in a former Carnegie library.
- Larne Town Parks (0.8 mi) – ideal for a leisurely stroll after a meal.
- Antrim Coast and Glens – a short drive away, offering dramatic cliffs, beaches and walking trails.
Practical Information
The venue is easily reachable by car, train and ferry. On‑site free parking is available for guests, and the Larne Harbour railway station is a one‑minute walk away. Bus services from Larne town centre stop within a ten‑minute walk.
Opening Hours are listed in the front‑matter table above, covering both bar and restaurant operations. The beer garden operates year‑round, with seasonal adjustments to opening times reflected on the venue’s social‑media channels.
Family Facilities include a children’s menu, high‑chairs and a welcoming atmosphere for younger guests. The venue also caters to special dietary requirements, offering gluten‑free, vegan and vegetarian options.
Payment: All major credit/debit cards are accepted, including American Express.
Accessibility: Disabled‑friendly toilets are on‑site and guide dogs are permitted throughout the premises. Wheelchair access is provided to the main bar and restaurant areas.
Reservations can be made via the website’s “Book Now” button or by calling the venue directly. For larger groups or private events, the “Coast” function space should be booked well in advance, especially during peak summer months.