A beloved family-run pub near Blarney has shared the sad news that they will close their doors after 40 years in business. Sunday, November 3 will mark the final day of business in the country pub, Blair's Inn, the Blair family said, explaining, “I hope you appreciate that we haven’t taken this decision lightly.

“We have simply given it our all. 

“As for the future of this magical pub; well that’s a conversation for another time,” they wrote in an emotional post on Facebook.

The family thanked staff past and present, saying, “We have had a constant stream of fantastic young people through the place over the years. 

“They are genuinely a credit to our community and it has been a pleasure to get to know and work with so many of them over the years.” 

Supporters in the industry who gave their business a lift with great reviews, including Georgina Campbell who awarded them Pub of the Year Award in 2013, were also thanked.

Additionally, they recognised “our fantastic regulars and locals,” saying:

“We will be eternally grateful for all your support, particularly those of you that stuck with us through the challenges of the last four and a half years.” 

They recalled Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, New Year’s Eve banquets, huge community barbecues, weddings, big corporate events as well as christenings, communions, confirmations and graduations, saying “some of you have even celebrated each one of those milestones here with us.” 

Sunday night sing songs and Monday night trad music sessions were also among the good memories, with the owner noting The Stargazers, John Spillane, the Polyphonics, the Second City Jazz Band, the Cork City Jazz Band, Jimmy Crowley, the Irish Weavers and Laughing Shamrocks playing there.

“It’s been a wild ride with memories to last a lifetime,” they said, adding that their favourite part “was always the chats across the bar with the locals.

“Lads, the craic has been just mighty. 

“It really has been a pleasure to be at the heart of such an amazing community for so long.”

The Legacy of a Beloved Pub

The Blair family, who own Blair's Inn, announced the closure of their pub on Facebook, sharing a touching message of thanks and reflection. They acknowledged the “phenomenal staff (past and present)” and the “fantastic regulars and locals” who made their pub so special.

The family recounted some of the highlights of their time as publicans, from hosting Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and New Year’s Eve banquets to catering to big corporate events and celebrating countless milestones with their patrons.

They also expressed gratitude for the support they received during the challenging period of the pandemic. The owners admitted that the decision to close wasn't easy, but they felt that it was the best way to move forward after giving it their all.

A New Chapter Begins

While the Blair family has chosen to close the doors of their beloved pub, they leave behind a legacy of warmth, hospitality, and community. The pub's history is filled with cherished memories, from impromptu singalongs and traditional music sessions to heartfelt conversations and shared laughter.

The owners express a hope that they’ve created a “magical pub” with a special atmosphere that will be remembered fondly by all who have visited its doors. The final day of business will be Sunday, November 3, marking the end of an era for Blair's Inn, but the memories and the spirit of the place will live on.

The family is keeping the future of the pub a secret for now. The decision to close the pub has sparked curiosity among locals and visitors alike, and the community waits with anticipation to see what the next chapter holds for this iconic spot. In the meantime, the pub will be remembered as a place that brought people together, provided a welcoming space for celebrations, and fostered a sense of community for 40 years.