Lillies withdrawn at auction without single bid

One of Dublin's most famous nightspots, Lillies Bordello, has been withdrawn at auction after failing to attract a single bid.

The nightclub, made famous as much by the celebrities it attracts as by its strict door policy, is situated in a prime location at the bottom of Grafton Street. The concern was for sale along with Judge Roy Beans restaurant and bar in a single lot.

The Egan family, who are the current owners, reportedly hoped to make as much as €7.5 million from the sale but the property was withdrawn by Youngs Auctioneers at €4 million without a bid being made.

The auction, which took place in the Shelbourne Hotel, was only half-full but with speculation rife about who the potential buyer might be, there was no shortage of journalists and photographers.

Lillies Bordello and Judge Roy Beans combine to make up 9,000 feet of floor space and provide a net turnover of close on €6 million.