The Sleepzone Hostel in Galway, a well-known establishment, has undergone a change in branding and has been renamed as The Dawson Hostel. A group of private investors from Ireland, under the leadership of Barry McGrath, a former prominent partner in the Maples & Calder law firm, has purchased the business from the previous owner, Ronan Garvey. Although the exact sale value is not public knowledge, the transaction is believed to be approximately €5 million, as suggested by John Hughes, from CBRE’s hotels division, who placed the hostel on the market last January.
As The Dawson Hostel, the accommodation will retain its tourist focus and will now operate in alignment with its sister entity, The Dawson Hostel located at 35/36 Dawson Street in Dublin city centre. This Dublin property, formerly known as the Dawson Hotel prior to shutting down, was purchased by McGrath and his investor counterparts late last year for an estimated €16 million.
The Dawson Hostel Galway is situated on Bóthar na mBan, a short stroll away from Eyre Square. It’s a purpose-built, four-tier accommodation that comprises 180 beds across 35 rooms, along with a welcoming reception area, and a shared kitchen and dining area on the ground floor. Nearby the Corrib Shopping Centre car park, the property has been skillfully maintained, thanks to the consistent investment from its former owner.
Galway is a city that has always held appeal for hostel businesses, offering a consistent influx of guests all year round due to its cultural, music and sporting festivals during the summer and large cohort of university and college students in the winter. It is also an ideal base for visitors to Connemara, the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way.
John Hughes of CBRE praised the sale of the Sleepzone Hostel and highlighted its potential under new ownership, noting its excellent position in Galway city and its profitable nature.