As the late Summer nights start to get a little darker earlier, what better place to spend them, than in a beautifully renovated traditional Blantyre pub!
The Barnhill Tavern on Bardykes Road, Blantyre has now been open for just over 7 weeks since its remarkable transformation from the former Hoolets. Have YOU had a chance yet to pop by for night out?
Looking back on the June opening night, we were kindly invited along beforehand and took these pictures in the quiet time before doors opened. It was a wonderful chance to see how much the pub has changed, from its increased customer footprint, to the warm, inviting decor, these photos certainly show what an incredible asset the Barnhill Tavern is for Blantyre residents.
The Carrigan family and their hard working staff have accomplished something truly amazing here, the stunning transformation creating a wow even after visiting often. Our photos don’t do justice to the place. Please do come along with friends and family and see for yourself.
Hugh and I dropped in of an afternoon when I was over in July.
In my legal drinking years, I have seen the original bar with Peter and Margo McDonald, although I do not ever remember Peter’s father.
The “coffin” was a fav for our group meeting on Saturdays after games at Ibrox, Parkhead and Castle Park or other nearby locations. Much fitba’ was discussed before playing dominoes.
The wee room was another gathering place but always filled with a mix of cigarette and pipe smoke!
Who remembers when the lounge was opened in the early 70s and did not offer pints? That meant a load of half pint glasses on your table!
Then a conversion did away with the coffin and tables were introduced in the bar. Who used the outside smoking area?
The bar area floor had to be renewed when feet were going though the original floor! I don’t recall what was done with the lounge.
Now Mr. Carrigan has given the place a major uplift and while my heart is still with the “multiple occupants of a singular coffin”, it is wonderful that the place still exists for Blantyre folks to enjoy.
I did not see any reference to the facility as being “The Hoolets”. That name is a major part of the building’s history.
MR. CARRIGAN, CAN YOU PLEASE HAVE ANOTHER PLATE STATING “THE HOOLET’s NEST” maybe just above the entrance?
A great talking point for that name.
Best wishes to all patrons and of course John Carrigan and his team.