The famous Co Clare pub, Durty Nelly's, has been sold in a deal reported to be worth €12 million.

The Bunratty landmark, which has been replicated across the world more than 200 times, has been sold to property and investment firm Crystal Partners.

The Ennis based firm - owned by hotelier Sean Lyne and accountant Noel Connellan - confirmed the sale which has now been finalised but would not disclose the purchase price.

However, the Irish Independent has reported that it went for €12m.

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In 2004, the two men bought the nearby Shannon Shamrock hotel in Bunratty from the Fitzpatrick Hotel group for €13m.

Durty Nelly's, first established in 1620 and shadowed by 15th-century Bunratty Castle, is one of the most popular hostelries in the west of Ireland.

Maurice Walsh, the newly appointed General Manager told the Independent: "Durty Nelly's is one of the best-known Irish pubs in the world. This is, of course, the original of the species and we tend to build and grow on its international status and heighten its reputation as a traditional iconic Irish bar that serves the best in traditional beverages and food as well as a home for traditional Irish music and song," he said.

Revamp plans include a refurbishment of the loft restaurant, extended opening hours at the weekends and the introduction of a shuttle bus to ferry customers from Ennis and Limerick.

(VB/JM)