Member Article

Major investment reopens North Yorkshire pub

An ambitious investment and refurbishment project has reopened a quaint North Yorkshire pub with the aim to turn it into popular eating out venue.

The Sawley Arms, near Fountains Abbey, has undergone a 17-week total refit steered by licensee Julie Wilks - an experienced former restauranteur and Betty’s employee.

With substantial backing from a private investor, Julie and her team have revamped the 300 year old property which is the only amenity in the village.

She now has ambitions to make the pub a renowned venue in the area for its traditional food and ales.

Julie said: “The pub had a great history and reputation but was very tired. We closed it for total refurbishment over 17 weeks. At one point we had 22 tradesmans’ vans in the carpark.

“We’ve tried to keep the feel of the old pub with the two log fires, conservatory and bay windows. There’s a few modern touches such as central heating and a bar that changes colour.”

Work has also gone into the outside of the pub with landscaping to the gardens and stonework.

Already bookings for Christmas and New Year are coming in thick and fast and Julie says the locals are delighted the business has been taken over and had its glory restored.

She added: “We’ve been amazed at how busy we’ve been without advertising, but as the winter comes in we’re keen to develop the midweek trade. This involves our curry nights, early doors menu and quiz nights - amongst other things.

“I’m really keen to keep the Sawley Arms as a good old traditional pub. It’s all about proper beers, nibbles on the bar and Sunday lunch - going back to how it used to be.

“We’re also using local suppliers, many I have known through other business, and all are pleased to see the pub back.”

Julie, who has 38 years experience in the hospitality trade, says she has longed to be back in the pub trade as her parents ran a similar venture when she was 18.

Four full time staff, with a combined 150 years experience running pubs, will man the business.

Hospitality consultant Martin Wilks, who is involved with the project, added: “The hope is that the pub will become popular among walkers. It’s also right next door to Fountains Abbey which is a massive tourist draw for the area.

“We’re staging a formal opening on Saturday October 12, where there will live music, canapes and wine.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .