Building work starts on first ever Lidl pub in Northern Ireland, with timeline revealed for opening
Last updated 9th Apr 2026
Lidl has announced its first ever pub will open in Northern Ireland this summer with building work now underway.
It'll be based next to the Lidl store in Dundonald, near Belfast and accessed separately to the supermarket.
A statement said, “Lidl Northern Ireland has commenced construction to develop a new public house with an associated off-sales at its existing Dundonald store in County Down, bringing the retailer’s award-winning range of quality wines, beers and spirits to local shoppers and residents for the first time. “
From exquisite wines recommended by Lidl’s Master of Wine Richard Bampfield to favourites from local brew”ers, Dundonald residents and shoppers will soon be able to avail of the retailer’s premier range of wine, beer, cider, spirits and liqueurs as part of the public house and associated off-sales offering. “
“Positioned in separate premises adjacent to the existing Dundonald store and accessed separately to the supermarket, construction of the 84 sqm. public house is underway with longstanding construction partner MMG Contracts and currently supporting 15 jobs through the development and build phase. The new offering is anticipated to add a further eight permanent jobs, expanding the Lidl Dundonald team to 27 employees when it opens later this summer. “
“As part of the innovative new offering, Lidl will operate its first public house, with a floor space of 60 sqm. and seated capacity of up to 60. Visitors can enjoy a professionally managed hospitality experience and sample selected lines from Lidl’s award-winning beer, wine and spirit range, with a focus on promoting local suppliers. “
“Planning for development for a public house and associated off-sales offering was granted in January 2025.”
Commenting on the announcement, Regional Managing Director for Lidl Northern Ireland Gordon Cruikshanks said “Lidl has been a part of the Dundonald community for more than 20 years and in that time our shoppers and residents have been unable to avail of Lidl Northern Ireland’s full product range due to licensing restrictions.”
After six years in the planning process, we’re delighted to today confirm the development of a brand new public house and associated off-sales located adjacent to our Dundonald store which will enable customers to enjoy access to our award-winning range of wine, beer and spirits, some of which are crafted right here in Northern Ireland.”
“With the rising cost of living, many more shoppers are voting with their feet and choosing to shop at Lidl and, within the Dundonald community in particular, shoppers and residents deserve equal access to our full range of products. Today’s announcement and our investment in realising this project over the last number of years reflects our long-term commitment to Northern Ireland and our loyal customer base in Dundonald.”
“Dundonald is a thriving town which has experienced a significant population boost of more than 20% in recent years, placing extra demand on the need for a public house in the locality. Alongside our off-sales, we’re excited to launch a public house offering at the new premises, providing the local community with a place to connect and enjoy a quality hospitality experience”, continued Gordon Cruikshanks.”
“External and internal works are now underway, with the public house and associated off-sales expected to welcome customers in summer 2026, subject to completion and final approvals.”