The owners of a range of hospitality venues in Magherafelt have bought The Plough Inn in Hillsborough, one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic pubs.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum, will see the McGlone family take over the County Down venue from the Patterson family which has owned the business since 1978.
As the pub and restaurant, which sit opposite Hillsborough Castle in the town, has been bought as a going concerns, all 65 members of staff will be retained by the new owners.
The McGlone family have a number of establishments through the Mid Ulster area including Dormans, Mary’s Bars and Secrets.
Richard and William Patterson selling the business was a difficult decision to come to.
“The decision to sell The Plough was not an easy one for us, but we feel that the time has come to take things a little easier,” they said. “It’s now time to enjoy the other side of the bar for a change, although we will still be working in the industry.
“We have complete confidence in our hand over of the reins to The McGlone family and are certain that under their ownership, the Plough will continue to be a thriving, evolving, family business in the heart of Hillsborough village. We look forward to supporting them with our custom and wish them every success in the future.”
Henry McGlone said The Plough is held in high regard by the people of the area.
“We have always admired the way the Patterson family have operated The Plough Inn and the venerable position the venue holds in the local community, so when the opportunity came along to examine the possibility of acquiring the business, we engaged fully in the process. Naturally we are delighted to have now acquired the business and will work hard in the months and years ahead to develop and invest in this iconic local institution - not just to maintain its proud heritage and values but also to grow the business and make it a must-visit venue for anyone coming to the area.”
