The Downshire Arms

Discover The Downshire Arms, a charming Irish restaurant in Hilltown, Newry. Enjoy delicious steaks, a warm atmosphere, and exceptional service. Perfect for family meals, Sunday lunches, and celebrations. Call +44 28 4063 8899 to book your table today!

4.7 - EWN Awards
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Welcome to The Downshire Arms

The Downshire Arms in Hilltown is a charming blend of an Irish restaurant, bar, and café. Located at 24 Main St, this place invites you in with its cosy, historic vibe, ideal for solo diners, families, or catch-ups with friends. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, boasting a fireplace that enhances the traditional charm. A diverse food and drink menu caters to everyone, ranging from hearty breakfasts to decadent desserts. Quality service and a laid-back ambience make it a must-visit for anyone in the Newry area. Whether you stay for a lively meal or just a drink during live music nights, the experience captivates every time.

Welcome to The Downshire Arms, a cozy Irish restaurant and bar & grill nestled in the heart of Hilltown, Newry. Our menu offers a delightful selection of hearty meals, including healthy options, vegan and vegetarian dishes, and irresistible desserts, all served with a side of friendly service in a historic setting. Enjoy our great beer and wine selection, or relax with a cup of coffee or tea by the fireplace. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a casual brunch with family and friends, we cater to all, including children, in a wheelchair-accessible environment. Join us for live music and make your dining experience truly special!

Services, Amenities and More

Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fireplace
Great beer selection
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Great wine list
Live music
Sport
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Photo Gallery

View Menu Photos

Reviews Overview

Most Liked

Patrons rave about the Sunday roast, particularly the turkey and ham, which comes highly recommended for its rich flavors and generous portions. The desserts, like the Mars bar cheesecake and homemade apple crumble, draw enthusiastic praise for their delightful taste and presentation. Many guests appreciate the live music that adds a unique charm to their dining experience, making it feel like a special event.

The vast beverage selection, including artisanal coffee and a thoughtful wine list, keeps drink enthusiasts happy. Additionally, the relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for enjoyably long meals with friends, where laughter and shared stories fill the air. Friendly staff play a significant role in creating memorable moments.

Most Disliked

Some visitors mention that the popularity of The Downshire Arms can lead to longer wait times during peak hours, especially on Saturday evenings when it tends to reach full capacity. This can be frustrating for those who arrive without a reservation hoping for a quick table. Additionally, while the cozy atmosphere is generally seen as a plus, some diners find the noise level can rise during busy nights, especially when live music is in full swing. A few reviewers feel that the prices could be more competitive, especially for certain dishes. However, it's essential to consider that quality often comes with a price, potentially justifying costs given the quality of food and service.

User Reviews

MO
Michelle O.
1 months ago

Incredible food and the loveliest staff. Our favourite place to dine! X

DM
David M.
2 months ago

A great stop of point for a drink or a meal in the lovely village of Hilltown. Good parking across the road or in the Hotels own park. Very friendly for couples and families.

RG
Ray G.
1 months ago

Called in for dinner, opted for the Sunday roast Turkey and ham, was absolutely delish, 2 clean plates, finished of with the Mars bar cheesecake, again Yummy,great service and the staff all smiling and happy, looking forward to our next visit, many thanks all,Ray and Tracey, Edinburgh,,x

CL
Christine L.
2 months ago

Me and the hubby decided to go today for dinner and we were seated straight away despite not having booked a table ,, we were given menus and a member of staff took an order for drinks. Soon after another member of staff took our order, I ordered the roast beef and my husband ordered turkey and ham. It really didn't take long for the food to arrive and it was beautifully presented and it tasted as good as it looked. Also there was a girl singing in the restaurant which was a nice touch for a sunny Sunday.. will definitely be back . 5 stars 🌟 🤩

jm
jacinta m.
8 months ago

Just stopped in for dinner, will 100% be back very soon. Excellent food, & service, very friendly & welcoming

DH
Derek H.
7 months ago

Excellent service, amazing food. Highly recommend.

TR
THERESA R.
5 months ago

I really love The Downshire Arms. The food is consistently lovely and the staff are so friendly and have a bit of craic too. We were in last week in a large group and everything was still great. They even sent out a few nibbles free gratis while we were waiting on our mains which was such a generous thing to do. I’ve never been disappointed here so would definitely recommend for consistently great food, great service and great atmosphere!

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Location & Hours

Opening Hours

MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen

Location

Frequently Asked Questions

The Downshire Arms offers a wide range of dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, catering, and dessert. You can enjoy your meals in a casual setting that features both indoor and outdoor seating.

Absolutely! The Downshire Arms is great for kids, providing high chairs, a dedicated kids' menu, and changing tables to ensure a comfortable visit for families.

Some standout dishes include the homemade lasagne, bangers and mash with onion gravy, and the warm double chocolate fudge cake. Don't miss out on their roast dinner, which is a crowd favorite.

Yes, The Downshire Arms features live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances your dining experience. It's a great place to enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment all in one.

The Downshire Arms is fully accessible with wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, seating, and toilets, making it a comfortable place for everyone to enjoy.

Why visit The Downshire Arms

Visiting The Downshire Arms is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about experiencing a community hub that draws locals and visitors alike. To truly enjoy your visit, consider scheduling your meal for mid-afternoon on a Thursday or Friday when crowds are lighter, and you'll have a more personalized experience. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure you snag a spot in this popular eatery.

The unique charm of the live music adds to the warm atmosphere, elevating a regular meal into something memorable. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including a dedicated kids’ menu and a changing table. Overall, The Downshire Arms combines delightful food, historic ambience, and community spirit, making every visit worthwhile. Don't just dine; immerse yourself in the local culture!