The Mother Shipton Inn, Knaresborough, reopened its doors today (23 November) following extensive refurbishment using £200,000 worth of investment from Admiral Taverns.
The pub will reopen under the management of experienced licensees Sam Small and Tony Robb – previous recipients of gold certificates in two categories for the Knaresborough in Bloom competitions for the pub's beer garden – who took over the pub in February.
The pair were drawn to the new challenge offered by the Mother Shipton Inn – named after the prophetess who predicted the fate of 16th century rulers such as the untimely death of Edward VI, as well as the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 from a nearby cave where she lived. The inn, nestled on the picturesque River Nidd in an area rich in history, presented a unique opportunity to Small and Robb.
Small said: “The Mother Shipton Inn is steeped in history and it’s important to us that this is honoured. We have loved the opportunity to improve the pub and our menus have gone down well within the community – we’re already fully booked for Christmas day!
“We can’t wait for everyone to see the pub's transformation for themselves and our team is raring to go ahead of the busy festive season.”
Using the investment from Admiral Taverns, the pub’s general interior and function room have been revitalised. In addition to cosmetic upgrades, the new and improved pub has launched a new drinks menu – boasting cask ales, a new wine list and a speciality gin bar – and themed food nights such as steak and jazz evenings.
Clear vision
Admiral Taverns business development manager for West & North Yorkshire Gary Stafford added: “In Sam and Tony, we have a very experienced and dedicated team that has had a very clear vision for the pub from the beginning. We have been delighted to support them in bringing the pub to life and putting their own individual stamp on what is a fantastic pub business.
“The transformation is really impressive and on behalf of the team at Admiral, I would like to congratulate Sam and Tony and their team and wish them all the best for the grand opening night.”
The inn’s opening nights will see guests given the opportunity to sample the pub’s new food offering – with canapé tasters for every item on the menu available to taste.
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