A new bar in Waterford used the lockdown and the closure of the hospitality sector to completely transform a disused unit into a new venue with an adventure centre next door.
Earlier this month, indoor hospitality returned as some pubs and restaurants opened their doors for the first time in almost 500 days.
Despite the boost for indoor hospitality, various restrictions are still in place with regards to capacity, occupancy, social distancing protocols and vaccine status.
But the long break allowed the owners of the Urchin, in Dublin, to expand their plans down to the south east coast.
After the success of their restaurant in Dublin City, they now have a new venue on the coast in Ardmore, Waterford.
The Urchin Bar, which is a part of the Cliff group, reopened to the public last month.
Only eight weeks ago, the unit was deserted after an old pub had closed.
But the owners documented the transformation in a series of social media posts.
Now, they've reopened in a colourful frenzy, with homemade cocktails and a stacked list of options for food (all from local suppliers) causing a great buzz around the town.
And on top of all that, they've also teamed up with Ardmore Adventures to provide stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking if you fancy taking in the spectacular scenery from the water.
A review of the new bar on TripAdvisor was full of praise for the venue, saying: "We ordered food from The Pantry and sat in the outdoor area of The Urchin. We ordered drinks and were served by Meadhbh each time who was very friendly and efficient. The outdoor area itself is fab with its Hawaiian type vibes! So glad we came across this gem of a place while in Ardmore."
