THE husband and wife team behind the Gowdy’s gastropub next to Down Royal racecourse have bought the well-known venue.
Tara and Declan Walsh, who have leased the premises since 2014, have now taken full ownership in a six figure deal supported by Ulster Bank.
The couple first met while working in bars on cruise liners throughout the 1990s.
Moving back to Northern Ireland, they continued to work in the hospitality sector, running a number of local bars before taking up positions together in Gowdy’s of Down Royal.
It was in 2014 that the opportunity arose for them to take on the lease of the premises after an extended period of closure for the business.
Supported by long-term manager Frances and a 30-strong team, the venue has become a go-to destination for spectators to the course’s 12 annual race meetings.
“We are thrilled to finally be able to say that we are the proud owners of Gowdy’s of Down Royal,” said Tara.
“We always knew we wanted to buy the business – as far back as 2014 when we first took over the lease.
“Over the past decade we’ve put a lot of time and energy into building the business up to where it is today and re-establishing the brand as a go-to destination.”
Declan added: “We are very thankful to have our vision supported by Lee and the team at Ulster Bank.
“Without this, our new venture would simply not have been possible. They have helped make this process really smooth and easy. Truly, this support has turned our dream into a reality.”
