On June 20, owners, Sue and Jozef, opened Ravenstone Abbey, a Stone Buttery Pub and an Axehole Dungeon in the quaint town of Coleraine. Shortly after, on July 14th, they also opened the Abbey Brew Coffee Shop.
The Stone Buttery Pub is a medieval-themed pub that serves fine imported wines, whiskeys, and spirits as well as mead and their own specialty cocktails. They also carry local craft beers and offer a delightful Bistro Menu for guest enjoyment. One of the most popular cocktails is the espresso martini. The martini is made from the finest Italian espresso which makes it silky smooth and a delicious experience. Guests also love the imported wines, whiskeys, and spirits.
From the Bistro Menu, the Blackberry Chevre Flatbread is quickly becoming a favorite followed by charcuterie boards and Caprese Bruschetta.
Below the pub, lies an Axehole Dungeon where you can experience the thrill of trying your hand at the ancient art of axe throwing. Ravenstone Abbey provides the coaches so there is no previous throwing experience needed to have a great time.
They host a variety of groups such as birthday parties, bachelorette or bachelor’s parties and group events. The minimum age requirement is 10 years old but there is no maximum age requirement. The oldest thrower to date was 84 years young!
Why did you choose the location in Coleraine and what inspired you to open Ravenstone Abbey?
“We had no idea the stone church was in Coleraine until we drove past it on the way to our son’s home. Despite the deplorable condition of the building, it was love at first sight! The vine covered stone walls and majestic stained-glass windows evoked a feeling of old-world Europe. The fact that this magnificent building was in the small city of Coleraine, and the outpouring of support we received from the community when we announced our intentions to restore the building, made the restoration project more meaningful and enjoyable for us. So, I guess you could say that we did not choose Coleraine as a location for our project, Coleraine and the old stone church chose us!”
“Our love for stone buildings, Sue’s passion for renovating, and the beauty and uniqueness of the church inspired us to try to save the building. A stone castle in Hungary was the inspiration for the name, as Jozef is from Hungary. The castle is named Holloko, which translates to Ravenstone. We toured the castle ruin and thought the name would be perfect if we ever found our own stone building to restore. We added the name Abbey to commemorate the building’s history as a church.”
Sue and Jozef’s dream is to provide a unique European experience for their guests. The building was designed with a medieval castle theme so as you enter the double doors you are greeted by a Black Knight who stands sentry in the vestibule. Beyond that, is the Abbey Brew Coffee Shop where fine Italian coffees, European teas, and pastries are served. There is plenty of seating throughout the pub and outside as well.
What went into the opening process? Who has helped you along this journey?
“The restoration process was arduous with a few setbacks and unexpected issues arising from years of neglect. The city of Coleraine was extremely supportive of our efforts and very helpful in resolving issues whenever possible. A demolition grant from IRRB was also very helpful in getting the building cleaned out and ready for restoration work to begin.
We had an amazing crew working with us to bring our dream to reality. Among them are Freedom Mechanical – Pat Neu, Goggleye Electric, Boonedox Builders, Midway Heating and Cooling, and so many individuals who stepped in to help.”
Sue mentions that their future plans for Ravenstone Abbey is to renovate the second floor sanctuary to include a lounge area and great hall where private events can be held. This coming Fall, they also plan to hold a grand opening, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more information, because you won’t want to miss it!
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