All-Ireland winning captain takes over iconic Tyrone venue

By Alan Rodgers

a.rodgers@ulsterherald.com

ONE of Tyrone’s most iconic hospitality venues is now under new management for the first time in almost 90 years.

Kelly’s Inn of Garvaghey was established by the late Tommy Kelly in 1937 and has been run for many years by his daughter, Patsy, and grand-daughter, Anne Marie.

It has now under the management of Derry businessman, Stephen Doherty, who has entered into partnership with Tyrone’s first All-Ireland winning captain, Peter Canavan, to run the popular venue.

The bar and restaurant, which also provides accommodation and is regularly used for a variety of charity, GAA and other functions, has undergone refurbishment in recent weeks. The announcement of the new owners was made earlier this week.

In a social media post, Canavan’s expressed its gratitude to the Kelly family.

“Kelly’s Inn has been a long standing pillar in our community and the Kelly family’s dedication in running the venue since 1937 has been nothing short of remarkable,” they said.

“Their commitment to providing warmth, comfort and hospitality to countless guests over the years has left an indelible mark on the people of Garvaghy and much further beyond.

“To the Kelly family, thank you for years of exceptional service. We hope you enjoy a well-earned rest.

“As for us at Canavan’s, the hard work starts now. We are committed to maintaining the same exceptional standard of hospitality that you have come to expect over the years.

“As you may have seen, our Bar has been fully renovated and is now open..this is only the start of an exciting chapter.”

At the start of last year, Stephen Doherty, who is from Derry, took over the management of Strain’s Bar on Bridge Street and Daly’s on High Street. He also manages the Village Inn in Killyclogher and has a lifetime of experience in the pub and hospitality industries.