A new Caffè Nero is due to open at Queen’s University Belfast’s McClay Library later this month, with work underway to convert the ground-floor café unit ahead of the new academic year.
The Belfast Telegraph reported on August 19, 2026, that the Italian-themed coffee chain was expected to be operational before students returned. An opening date was understood to be targeted for the end of the following week, although formal lease arrangements were still being completed.
Former Hope Cafe site being transformed
The McClay Library unit was previously occupied by Hope Cafe. Visible work had taken place at the site in recent weeks, while Caffè Nero branding had appeared outside the library.
The new outlet is being introduced after the previous café operator stopped running the site earlier in the year. Queen’s University said it had begun a process to find suitable replacement operators for three outlets on campus.
A university spokesperson said: “Due to the decision of the café operator at Queen’s to close in May of this year, a process was put in place to find a suitable replacement service for students and staff.”
Three outlets expected to operate for academic year
Queen’s said new operators for three outlets were expected to be operational for the start of the academic year. The university also confirmed that Junction café had continued trading as usual during the transition.
The spokesperson said: “Formal lease arrangements are still being finalised, however, it is anticipated that new operators for three outlets will be operational for the start of the academic year.”
Caffè Nero’s McClay Library venue will add to the chain’s presence around Queen’s. Other nearby outlets include one opposite the Seamus Heaney Centre and another beside Botanic train station.
Caffè Nero was approached for comment about the opening, according to the report.
For Armagh residents, the development is a Belfast-based university retail and hospitality update rather than a change to services in Armagh. The supplied report does not identify an Armagh outlet, opening or business impact.
