A new cocktail-led hospitality venue is under development at Armagh City Hotel, backed by an investment of £600,000 from owners McKeever Hotels.

The Meridian will draw its name and design inspiration from Armagh's astronomical heritage, referencing the historic Meridian Line and the city's observatory. Work is underway with completion scheduled for early winter.

Belfast-based brand and experience specialists Drinksology have been appointed to design the venue. The firm is known for creating the Dead Rabbit bar in New York, which has won the title of World's Best Bar, and for work on the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and London. Carrickfergus-based McCue Fit-Out, which has delivered projects for Claridge's Hotel and Titanic Belfast, will handle the fit-out.

Greg Buda, former director of education for the Dead Rabbit, is developing the cocktail menu. The Meridian will have capacity for 120 guests and will include The Constellation Room, a dedicated space for premium spirit and wine tastings, as well as a private dining area. There will be a strong focus on stocking local brands.

Eddie McKeever, Managing Director of McKeever Hotels, said that since the company bought the hotel over a year ago, it has identified strong potential. Research indicated clear demand for a premium bar that would attract both hotel guests and locals, he added. The aim is to establish The Meridian as one of the region's most talked-about hospitality destinations.

The £600,000 project is part of a wider £4 million capital expenditure plan by the McKeever family to develop the hotel as an all-island tourist and conference destination and to create a four-star property rooted in the local community.

Andrew O'Doherty, Architect and Experiential Designer at Drinksology, explained that the venue's design tells the story of Armagh's connection to discovery, navigation and the measurement of time. The vision is for The Meridian to become a place where people gather and connect.

Alan Stewart, Head of Business Development at McCue Fit-Out, noted that the company was pleased to bring the same level of craftsmanship to The Meridian as it had to the Whiskey Cellar at the Dunadry Hotel, another McKeever property.