Limerick’s The Old Quarter and Fordes Courtyard Shine at Awards

The Old Quarter Pub, Café & Townhouse and Fordes Courtyard have secured prestigious accolades at the 2025 Irish Pub Awards, celebrating their contributions to the hospitality industry in Limerick. The Old Quarter was named Innovative Bar of the Year for the Southwest region, while Fordes Courtyard received recognition as Best Digital Innovator.

The Old Quarter: A Legacy of Innovation

Located in the heart of Limerick, The Old Quarter has been a significant player in the local hospitality scene since its establishment in 1995. This esteemed venue has continually evolved, blending traditional Irish warmth with modern flair. The bar’s innovative spirit was recognized when it was awarded Innovative Bar of the Year for the Southwest region.

The Old Quarter was one of Limerick’s pioneering cocktail bars, long before mixology became a trend. Today, it boasts a diverse and creative drinks menu, alongside two contemporary bars and a vibrant courtyard that hosts live music on weekends. The venue also features a 43-room Townhouse hotel, enhancing its reputation as an all-encompassing experience.

What truly sets The Old Quarter apart is its commitment to staff development. In partnership with Griffith College and the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI), it has pioneered Ireland’s first Bachelor of Arts in Bar Management. This initiative promotes bartending as a viable career path, rather than just a temporary job.

The establishment employs innovative training methods, including in-house videos and a mentorship “buddy system.” Additionally, digital management tools such as Alkimii are utilized to enhance both staff support and guest experiences. As the team prepares for the national Irish Bar of the Year finals on November 12, 2025, this award is seen as a testament to their dedication to combining tradition with innovation, ultimately benefiting the local community.

Fordes Courtyard: A New Era of Digital Engagement

In a time when many traditional pubs are facing challenges, Fordes Courtyard has emerged as a beacon of optimism in Limerick. Opened in April 2025, this venue quickly garnered attention and was named Best Digital Innovator in the Southwest at the recent awards.

Fordes Courtyard has embraced digital technology as a means to connect with its community and enhance the guest experience. Their online presence reflects the warmth and creativity that define the pub, with initiatives like social media storytelling and immersive digital experiences.

The pub’s “Behind the Bar” and “Out & About” series have successfully brought followers closer to the personalities that make the venue unique. Collaborations with local creators have further amplified Limerick’s voice in a genuine, community-focused manner. The use of smart booking systems and integrated communication tools exemplifies their forward-thinking approach, ensuring customer engagement extends beyond closing time.

A highlight for Fordes Courtyard came when they won at the regional level, allowing a team member to attend a Management Masterclass in Tullamore, where they proudly accepted their award plaque. Competing against more established pubs in the Southwest, Fordes Courtyard’s success illustrates their vision and commitment to innovation.

As the team heads to the national finals on November 12, 2025, their achievement serves not only as a proud moment for the establishment but also as a symbol of hope for the future of Limerick’s pub scene. Both The Old Quarter and Fordes Courtyard showcase the vibrant spirit of the city, blending tradition with modernity and community engagement.