about Kealys

Kealy's of Cloghran was established in 1964 by Joe Kealy (father of Derry).
Originally from Meath, Joe had owned two pubs in Cork which were bought by Guinness. Joe worked for Guinness for a short time and then decided to go back into the trade. He bought Kealy's from Woods in 1964. He saw the potential of the airport and the surrounds and the good location on the main Dublin Belfast Road.

Kealy's has always been a family run establishment. Three generations have been involved. It is owned by Derry since 1980. Prior to that Derry ran it for his mother Mary and his sister Aideen was also involved. Today Derry, Elaine and daughter Alison work in Kealy's.

The Kealy's snow in story is that in 1982 there was very heavy snow. Cars were abandoned, airport was closed due to snow ploughs being sent off site for painting!!!! . People were caught in the snow between 5 and 7pm on way home from work. Derry was instructed by the Guards to keep the pub open and he kept it open for three days offering shelter and sustinance to all stranded. Guests included a heavily pregnant woman and a man with a broken arm. On the third day the pub ran out of food and drink. To this day we often get cards from people who stayed here during the snow storm.

Famous guests who have eaten and drank in Kealy's.........

Charles Haughey, Ernie Els, Jack Charlton and Irish Team were regularly here, Bono, Sting, Russell Crowe, Girls Aloud and Jude Law.