North Yorkshire country inn reopens after £1.5m refurbishment

A country inn in Husthwaite, near Easingwold in North Yorkshire, has reopened following a £1.5m refurbishment programme.

The Plum & Partridge features nine guest rooms as well as a pub and a restaurant.

Jonathan Westwick, former chef at The Peppered Pig and The Drovers Arms, has been appointed to lead the site’s food and drink offering.

Jacek Sliwinski, who trained under Simon Rhatigan, one of the UK’s leading hoteliers, has also been appointed general manager.

Ainsty Inns has taken a 10-year lease on the site, which has been vacant since 2014.

Antony Pratt, owner of Ainsty Inns, said: “The pub needed a clear direction and some TLC and following the refurbishment we believe we have created a destination inn that oozes traditional country inn charm but with a modern twist, which will appeal to diners, drinkers and also those looking to stay the night in one of our warm and stylish rooms.

“I’m delighted that Jonathan Westwick has come on board to drive forward our culinary offering and help us showcase the best and finest Yorkshire produce, while matching this with the outstanding customer service we deliver across the group.”

Established by Antony in 2012, Ainsty Inns comprises other Yorkshire establishments including The Chequers Inn in Bilton-in-Ainsty, The Swan & Talbot in Wetherby, The Duke of York Inn at Gate Helmsley and The White Swan at Wighill.

Events including themed wine dinners with talks from a wine expert and food and beer festivals are planned for later in the year at The Plum and Partridge.

Ainsty Inns employs 110 people with turnover expected to reach £2.84m in the current financial year.