After nearly 50 years behind the bar, Gerry Chawke is selling his famous Clonmel pub
The 72-year-old has decided it’s time to pull his last pint.
CLONMEL SPORTS BAR Gerry Chawkes has been placed on the market after nearly 50 years in business.
The bar has been under the ownership of renowned publican Gerry Chawke and his wife Anne Carew Chawke for the past five decades. The property has been brought to market by estate agents Sherry Fitzgerald Power & Walsh.
Gerry Chawke acquired the premises in 1968 and opened the pub’s doors for the first time in February 1969.
Since then, the sports bar has been frequented by many high-profile people, including former Irish international Niall Quinn, horse racing bigwigs JP McManus and John Magnier and former taoisigh Garret Fitzgerald, Charlie Haughey, Albert Reynolds and Bertie Ahern.
Now 72 years old, Chawke has decided it’s time to pour his last pint – with the ‘For Sale’ sign erected today over the pub.
“I have been listening to customers coming in speaking of retirement for years upon years now, and I guess when I hit 70 I decided maybe now is the right time to think about finally handing over the reins,” he said.
“We have enjoyed an amazing time of it here, it’s a really special bar with a wonderful and loyal patronage to whom I am extremely grateful. Truth be told, I’m already looking forward raising a glass with my customers on the other side of the counter while celebrating retirement.”
Sherry Fitzgerald Power & Walsh auctioneer Dermot Power, who is looking after the sale, said this property represents an “enormous opportunity” for any potential any buyer.
“Gerry Chawkes will be sold as a going concern, it is centrally located with two entrances and a Ladbrokes betting shop adjacent to it, making it a very attractive proposition and one we are thrilled to bring to market today.”
The auctioneer’s description of the property noted that the pub has a front bar with capacity for 85 people and an outdoor beer garden. The property’s second floor “is in need of renovation”.
History
Before he opened his Clonmel pub, Chawke worked in Dublin for four years behind the bar at the likes of The Palace Bar and The Thomas Moore House.
Chawke comes from a family with a rich history in the pub trade. His late father, Bill Chawke, was a notable publican in Limerick and his brother, Charlie, has also followed in his father’s footsteps.
His father got into the trade after selling his Adare-based farm and purchasing Doyles Bar in the local village. He also acquired another premises in the village called Auntie Lena’s Bar.
The ownership of both establishments has now fallen to Charlie Chawke, who is also the owner of The Goat Pub in Dublin and numerous other bars in the Irish capital.
