Northumberland hospitality specialist expands local presence with three new pubs

A North East hospitality organisation launched in the middle of the pandemic is continuing its rapid expansion programme.

The Inn Hospitality Group, set up by events company owner Oliver Bennett and event catering expert, Matt Daniel, took over the historic The Percy Arms at Chatton, Northumberland in January 2020.

Despite buying the property at one of the most challenging times in the industry’s history, the investment has paid off, with the pub with rooms now proving a huge success.

The directors invested £200k in the refurbishment of the property, which included the creation of new outdoor space, upgrading the kitchen, a new roof and full redecoration. The five bedrooms have also been given a new lease of life, “stylishly transformed into comfortable and chic places to stay”.

The success of the venture has led to the group making three further purchases; The Derwent Arms at Edmundbyers, which has also undergone a £100k upgrade, The Anglers Arms at Longframlington and The Olde Ship at Seahouses.

Each of the properties has undergone extensive refurbishment, along with the creation of a new food offering for each venue which focuses on traditional, hearty dishes most of which is sourced locally wherever possible.

The aim now is to not only build strong local loyalty but also to tap into the lucrative visitor market of people coming to stay in Northumberland.

Oliver said: “We pride ourselves on the fact that each of the properties is unique and offer something very special. They have all been at the heart of the local community for years and the feedback we’ve had so far is that people really appreciate the investment and the new offering.

“We also believe we can make a strong contribution to the local economy by attracting visitors who want to stay somewhere unique and with a really homely and welcoming feel.”

Matt added: “We know people thought we were made to look at a hospitality venture at a time when the whole industry was virtually shut down. But it’s a move we’re very glad we’ve made and we’re very proud of the four unique properties that we have to offer which are in prime locations across Northumberland.”