A Mayo pub has been listed as one of Ireland's six best Traditional pubs by the Guardian website.
Set in the Windy Gap, a narrow winding stretch of road between Wild Nephin park and Lough Conn in County Mayo’s lush countryside, Leonard’s grocery and bar has been run by the same family for 80 years.
Current owner JP recently overhauled the premises without compromising its integrity. Flagstone flooring, an open fireplace and warm timber furnishings offer a homely retreat from the exposed landscape.
Where not original, the fixtures hail from historic buildings. The sash windows, countertops, fireplace panelling and doors are all reclaimed, allowing the property to retain its character without falling into disrepair or appearing shabby. The grocery and hardware store is not a gimmick like some of the faux-shops attached to tourist-oriented premises in locations such as Killarney or Galway. Its honeycomb shelves offer anything from livestock supplies to fresh food for a picnic in the hinterlands.
Leonard's is the only Connacht Pub to be listed among the top six by the Guardian.
