The Carnaross Inn: The focal pint for village life

“Every village should have a local pub/hub” is what Carnaross businessman, Michael Farrelly thought when the Carnaross Inn closed its doors some years back.

“As a truck driver, I have seen many villages across Ireland lose their pubs over the last decade and I didn’t want to see that happen in Carnaross”

Being no stranger to the hospitality industry, Michael Farrelly who also owns Killians Lodge in nearby Mullagh, has since taken over the Carnaross Inn, and has created a warm and welcoming local which is now renowned for its excellent bar food as well as its friendly atmosphere.

Before the takeover, the pub had been closed for a number of years, so Michael embarked on extensive renovations last May which transformed the premises, getting them to where they needed to be, to be up and running again in the heart of the village.

The Carnaross Inn boasts a cosy bar and lounge as well as a large function area, which is an ideal venue for 18th or 21st birthday celebrations, or any other special events. “Every birthday should be celebrated, and to add to that, we also cater for christenings, communions, confirmations or any party gatherings, as we can seat up to 250 people in lounge/function room”, said Michael, adding that it is also the perfect place for a lively drink with friends, a romantic meal for two or a quiet drink at the bar.

The Carnaross Inn serves food from 12 to 8pm, Thursday to Sunday, serving the finest local fresh produce, with their delicious menu attracting customers from far and wide. The bar opens at 5pm each evening.

The huge car park adjoining the Carnaross Inn is a major bonus, especially when hosting large functions! To add to the list, the Carnaross Inn also offers an outdoor catering service where they will bring their delicious food to your home for a more intimate party or celebration. “Having the outdoor catering service at Killians Lodge Hotel has allowed for us to learn a thing or two and gain experience in the outdoor serving side of the business,” said Michael.

Being a native of Carnaross, Michael grew up and went to school in the village and still resides in the family home.

“There are two things that I am very passionate about and proud of. The first is my love for the village of Carnaross, and the second are my staff of both the Carnaross Inn and Killians Lodge. I had concerns for the village, which lead me to make the decision to go on this venture of reigniting the Inn to provide a hub for the village, and like any business, the staff are key, and I am very lucky to be supported by a great team!”

Michael is one of a well-known local business family, having started in business with his brothers, Farrelly Brothers Agricultural Contractors in 1990 and then diversifying into the transport business in 1995.

His first foray into the hospitality trade started in 2005 when he went into business with Tracy Cooney and bought Killians Lodge Hotel. Tracy has since recently left the business to allow more time with her twins Anne & Kit.

Michael is no longer involved in the agricultural contracting business, but is still running the transport company, as well as the hotel and pub.

When he saw the Carnaross Inn lying idle in recent years, he decided to take it on himself to reopen the landmark pub. He decided to “throw the balls up in the air and see how it goes”, and the result is a beautifully renovated atmospheric pub, restaurant and function room in the heart of the charming village of Carnaross,

“I recognise that these are challenging times, for any business but I hope that with the support from the people of Carnaross and surrounding areas that The Carnaross Inn will be there for years and generations to come!”