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23 Feb 2026

Bentley Bar transformed into newly refurbished music-themed venue

The Bentley Group's latest project celebrates the best of Derry craftsmanship and creativity

Bentley Bar transformed into newly refurbished music-themed venue

Mayor of Derry, Cllr Ruairí McHugh with Bentley owners Tony O'Connor (left) and and Ruairi Breslin (right).

A significant redevelopment has transformed The Bentley into a newly refurbished, music-themed venue in the heart of Derry City - creating work for local trades, supporting artists, and reinvesting directly back into the local economy.

The extensive renovation was delivered entirely by local contractors, generating employment across the project and supporting businesses throughout the local supply chain.

The investment not only secures existing roles within the venue but strengthens employment across the wider community.

The Bentley now features a fully modernised, state-of-the-art sound and lighting system designed specifically for live performance - creating an entertainment experience unlike anything else currently available in the city.

Operating as an eatery during the day and transforming into a full live entertainment venue at night, The Bentley will host entertainment seven nights a week, providing a consistent platform for local musicians, bands and performers.

READ NEXT: IN PICTURES: Packed house in Derry for opening of newly refurbished Bentley Bar

The Bentley is the flagship venue of The Bentley Group, established in 2008 and now operating six locations across Derry City, employing over 300 people locally.

A spokesperson for The Bentley Group said: “This redevelopment wasn’t just about upgrading a venue - it was about putting investment back into the city.

“From the local contractors who built it to the local artists who will perform here every week, the project supports jobs, creativity and the wider community. We wanted to create something unique for Derry - a proper music venue with production quality you would normally only experience in much larger cities.”

Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairi McHugh said: “Its been an iconic bar in the city, now in its eighteenth year, so I would like to take the opportunity to wish the owners and management staff all the very best for the future.

“It adds to the fabric of the society here in the city and I'm sure there will be many tourists who will come visit here and of course it provides much needed employment for the city as well so I wish them all the best.”

With its new design, upgraded production technology and full weekly entertainment programme, The Bentley aims to become a central hub for live music and nightlife in the North West.

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