Ponderosa reaches new heights in Netflix hit How To Get To Heaven From Belfast

Ireland’s Highest Bar and Restaurant has stepped into the global spotlight. The Ponderosa, perched high in the Sperrin Mountains, has appeared in Lisa McGee’s new Netflix drama How To Get To Heaven From Belfast — placing one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable rural landmarks centre stage in a major television production.

Eagle-eyed viewers tuning into the new series may have spotted the local pub in the penultimate episode.

In episode seven, as the dark comedy’s storyline intensifies, characters played by Saoirse Monica Jackson (Derry Girls), Bronagh Gallagher (Brassic, Pulp Fiction) and Shauna Bray make a pitstop in The Hayshed to plot their next move — no spoilers.

For the Ponderosa, it marks another milestone in a story that stretches back more than 160 years.

Originally dating to 1858, the venue was renamed in the 1960s after the ranch in the classic US Western Bonanza. Today, it blends that heritage with contemporary comfort, serving as both a tourist attraction and a well-loved gathering place for locals.

The business celebrated its 10-year milestone under current ownership in 2024. Under the stewardship of the O’Donnell family, it has expanded to include Paddy Joe’s pub — named after the owners’ grandfather — alongside The Hayshed function space, which hosts weddings, parties and special celebrations throughout the year.

Visitors travelling between Belfast and Donegal frequently stop to capture a photograph beside the well-known sign declaring it Ireland’s Highest Pub. Now, thanks to its appearance in a Netflix production, that scenic stop-off carries an added layer of cultural significance.

Owner Jill O’Donnell welcomed the unexpected starring role.

“We’re delighted the Ponderosa featured in this new TV show created by Lisa McGee. Derry Girls has proved to be a huge tourism boost for the city, we hope her latest offering which showcases so many picturesque locations across Ireland will have the same effect.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built here over the past decade, and to see it included in a major television production is very special. We hope it encourages even more people to come and experience Ireland’s Highest Pub for themselves.”

From hearty Irish food served seven days a week to music sessions and celebrations in The Hayshed, the Ponderosa has long drawn visitors for its atmosphere and views.

With a role in a hit Netflix drama now added to its history, Ireland’s Highest Pub may be set to welcome an even wider audience in the months ahead.