Husband and wife duo Michael and Aveen Moreland have taken over ownership of Minny Doyle’s, the popular traditional Irish pub in Hilltown once owned by Aveen’s family, as part of a six-figure investment.
The century-old village pub was put up for sale in 2024 by then owners Seamie and Joanne Mullen, who paid tribute to the many memories made there as proprietors of the much-loved establishment for over 22 years.
Featuring a spacious public bar, full-service kitchen and dining area, a beer garden, cocktail bar and function rooms, Minny Doyle’s pub and restaurant, which currently employs 10 staff, has long been a popular social hub for locals and visitors.
After many years working in hospitality, Aveen said it was always a goal to run a family pub.
“We began looking at country pubs and when Minny Doyle’s came on the market, it instantly meant something to me. It had once been owned by my late great-uncle James Edward Byrne. His customers still frequent the pub today which is so special and something we don’t take for granted. When the deal was done, it felt like home.”
With fresh energy, the duo now hope to build on the pub’s proud history whilst keeping the warmth and community that has defined the pub for generations.
“There are a few essentials in every community and the local pub is definitely one of them,” Michael said.
“We really believe in the role local pubs play in bringing people together. A good pub is something to be cherished and protected, and we are proud to now be a part of that story. A public house is a place to gather, share company, to eat with family and friends, to celebrate, to reflect and a place for all to enjoy.”
They said it’s important for local pubs to move with the times, citing changing consumer habits and experiences as a key driver.
“You can’t sit still. Behaviours and generations change. For us, we want to change the perception that you go to the pub only for a pint. It is so much more. We like to think of Minny Doyle’s as our living room, a place for everyone and anyone to come for the craic, live music, food with family, with children, for a cup of tea and a chat, storytelling, a party – whether there’s alcohol or not.”
The traditions of the Irish pub are a key part of global tourism appeal, providing not just a service and facilities but also rich experiences.
“Being nestled at the foot of the Mournes means we’re in a great position to really draw in tourism, showcasing our world-renowned hospitality to an international audience. With an array of local businesses and places to stay, we want to be a part of that authentic, memorable experience.”
Ulster Bank business development manager Lee White reinforced the bank’s commitment to the hospitality sector.
“From some of the biggest hotel chains right down to local community pubs, we have and we continue to support the hospitality sector – a key employer and important economic driver that stimulates travel and tourism – to invest and grow right across Northern Ireland. Aveen and Michael’s passion is infectious and their vision, buoyed by experience, to reinvigorate the local pub is progressive, so we’re very pleased to support them with those plans.”
For more information about Ulster Bank business banking, visit www.ulsterbank.co.uk.
