One of Cork’s oldest pubs is injecting nearly half a million euro into the local economy while creating 15 new positions as part of an ambitious refurbishment project backed by drinks giant Diageo.

Clancy’s on Princes Street, which has been serving Cork since 1824, closes its doors this week for the transformation before reopening on Friday 11th July with four distinct venues under one roof.

The substantial investment represents a significant vote of confidence in Cork’s hospitality sector, with owner Paul Montgomery assembling an entirely new management team to deliver the project. The venue has recruited Dave Daly as Group General Manager and Shane Spillane, a well-known West Cork restaurateur, as Head of Food & Beverage, alongside 15 new service staff positions.

The refurbishment will see the 200-year-old venue reimagined with Arthur’s Bar at street level offering a Guinness experience created in partnership with Diageo, a new first-floor restaurant called 1824, a premium cocktail bar, and a rooftop party bar. Head Chef Mark Nevin, who trained in London before returning to his native West Cork, will lead the kitchen team at the new restaurant.

Paul Montgomery, owner of Clancy’s, said:

“This is more than a refurbishment—it’s a reimagining to bring us into the future. We’re proud of Clancy’s 200-year history, and we’re building on that legacy with something truly special. Cork’s food and beverage scene is growing more ambitious, and we want to be right at the heart of it.”

The ground floor will feature specialist Guinness equipment including bespoke glass washers, a cold room, and temperature controls, while the first floor Georgian space has been converted from a private events area into a full-service restaurant serving contemporary Irish cuisine.

Montgomery, who has been involved with numerous Cork pubs over the past 30 years, emphasised the venue’s commitment to local suppliers and sustainable Irish produce. The investment also includes live music seven days a week and breakfast service, marking a significant expansion of the venue’s offering.

The partnership with Diageo includes staff training by Guinness experts and the installation of specialist equipment to ensure optimal pint quality, alongside interactive experiences where customers can learn to pour their own pints.

Bookings are now open at clancyscork.ie, with walk-ins also welcome when the venue reopens this Friday.