Sheepfolds uncorks stylish new wine bar

A Sunderland hospitality venue is expanding its offer with the launch of a new premium wine bar. 

The latest addition at Sheepfolds Stables creates another social space within one of the North East’s most popular leisure hubs.

Named simply The Wine Bar, the venue offers a curated selection of wines, premium champagnes, cocktails, mocktails and signature drinks, aimed at both regular visitors and new customers.

Located alongside The Taproom, the bar features plush booths and seating within a 1940s-inspired interior. 

Designed by Black Box Design, the space blends rich colours, velvet fabrics and art-deco touches with references to the site’s industrial heritage. 

Handcrafted elements, including the bar and display case, were constructed onsite, while leather strap detailing nods to the building’s former life as stables.

The design also takes inspiration from historic pubs that once served the local mining community opposite Sheepfolds Stables, with nods to Ma Vic of the Engineer’s Tavern and Rose of the Waggon Tavern woven into the décor.

Rick Marsden, managing director of Building Design Northern (BDN), the developers behind Sheepfolds Stables, said: “The Wine Bar is a luxury space to enjoy wines, champagnes, cocktails and more and it certainly adds something different to an already unique site which has firmly established itself as part of the region’s social and hospitality scene.

“It complements our existing operators and the site’s food and drink offer and will no doubt appeal to many different audiences from groups of friends enjoying an afternoon or night out to people looking for a special space for a private function. 

“It’s a great addition to the site.”

The Wine Bar can host up to 40 people and is available for private hire, complementing Sheepfolds Stables’ existing bars, including Back of the Pit and the Spey Snug whisky lounge. 

It will also take part in Sunderland Cocktail Week (January 30 – February 8) and plans are in place to introduce bottomless brunches and afternoon teas.

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