We're a 5th generation, family run, award winning, Irish Bar and Restaurant nestled in the heart of the South Derry countryside in the picturesque village of Swatragh. We're halfway between Belfast and Derry just off the Glenshane Pass. The bar has been in the family name for over one hundred years.
Friels is a pub with an original wooden ceiling, ornate bar counter and a roaring fire. Walls are lined with historic photographs and Guinness memorabilia- it won't be long till you're craving a pint of the black stuff. We are one of those places with all the charm of an 'old man's pub' but with the buzz of weekend cocktails, family Sunday lunch and coffee catch-ups.
Friels is a pub with an original wooden ceiling, ornate bar counter and a roaring fire. Walls are lined with historic photographs and Guinness memorabilia- it won't be long till you're craving a pint of the black stuff. We are one of those places with all the charm of an 'old man's pub' but with the buzz of weekend cocktails, family Sunday lunch and coffee catch-ups.
Services
Menus
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We are passionate about using the very best produce and have been a finalist for the Commitment to Local Food award. Our beef is all grass-fed and dry aged for 28 days and is Northern Ireland Farm Assured from McAtamney's butchers. All fruit and vegetables are supplied by Bradmount. Our fish is from the North Atlantic shorelines and eggs are from our neighbours in Glenshane.
Desserts
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A sweet sign-off to the main meal, dessert is one of life's great pleasures and with the choice of Morelli's Ice Creams, there's always room for dessert! For generations, the Morelli family has made ice cream using fresh Double Cream and butter from the historic Ballyrashane Creamery. These rich dairy ingredients are created using milk from cows that graze in the lush green pastures of Northern Ireland's spectacular Causeway Coast.
Public Bar
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You'll find that the social heart of Ireland beats loudest in the pubs. As you arrive at Friels during the weekend you're met with the hum of live music, conversation and craic. Rich in history, our public bar is what makes Friels so special. From the original wooden bar and ceiling to the olden time imagery littered on the walls, this is a step back in time- to real Ireland.
Tours
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If booking a tour group with us you'll have the chance to step back to 1849. Join us in the Inn at Swatragh, and listen to tales of the town, and famine ravaging the land. You'll be welcomed into the soup kitchen and invited to take a taste of the nettle soup served to those who are hungry.
The famine pot which holds the soup, holds the key to the survival of many, for those who were not as fortunate, learn of their fate as the inmates of the local workhouse.You will enjoy a traditional Irish 2-course lunch and have fun with pouring your own Guinness!
The famine pot which holds the soup, holds the key to the survival of many, for those who were not as fortunate, learn of their fate as the inmates of the local workhouse.You will enjoy a traditional Irish 2-course lunch and have fun with pouring your own Guinness!
Things To Do
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Yes, you can visit the area easily enough by car, but the surrounding area is best explored on foot, whether you opt for a magical walk down our stony path to Fairy Tree Hill or take on the challenge of The Sperrins. There are mountain hikes such as Carntogher Way where you can steer clear of civilisation and soak up the area rich in mythology and archaeological heritage.
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