It’s regarded as Cork’s oldest pub.

But The Gateway on Barrack Street, briefly called Barbarella, is about to reopen with a brand new name this summer.

The legendary watering hole has been renamed Old Bear by its new owners, headed by well-known Cork publican Ernest Horgan, with small signs appearing in the windows this week to announce the change.

Old Bear will open at the location just outside Elizabeth Fort in a few weeks, with work on the interior underway. The traditional style bar will be a simple spot, promising plenty of atmosphere, good food and “a perfect pint of porter”.

Steeped in history and culture, with a few famous patrons, notably Wellington, – the Irish man who defeated Napoleon at The Battle of Waterloo, The Gateway claims the title of Cork’s oldest pub, having first opened its doors in 1698.

“With talented designers and skilled tradespeople beavering away night and day to deliver a bar worthy of Barrack St. credentials, cool old-world vibes will be revealed on the day.” an insider told us.

While nothing is confirmed just yet, we hear they’re hopeful Old Bear will be up and running for the June bank holiday weekend.

Whether you’re a history buff on a pub crawl or just looking for a decent pint in a characterful boozer, Old Bear is the one to watch in this part of town – find them on Facebook for updates.