The White Bear in Bedale, Yorkshire, has reopened following a £200k investment by Admiral Taverns, the UK's leading operator of community pubs.
Licensee Michelle Jones has been a loyal customer at the pub since the 1980s and has always wanted to create a community hub for the local area, one that champions wholesome pub food and a superb drinks offer.
For Jones, it's all about creating a place where families want to visit. As well as a new menu featuring classics such as hotpots and burgers of the day, she’s also introduced a signature 'taster board' with three smaller cask ales for the price of one.
The 17th century Victorian pub has had a complete internal and external refurbishment, enhancing the welcoming feel of the pub, with cosy fires lining the walls.
The pub is also lining up entertainment such as live music performances, football darts and pool teams, BT & Sky sports, and regular fundraising events.
Jones said, 'I’m delighted to have taken on the White Bear which looks fantastic following the refurbishment. I’ve always thought the pub has serious potential and it’s brilliant to have the opportunity to create this for the local community.
'As well as the pub we’ve got hotel rooms which will be available in the Spring, creating an even broader offer for our customers, especially those wanting places to stay near the Tour De Yorkshire in 2019 as we are very close!'
Business Development Manager at Admiral Taverns, Gary Stafford said, 'Michelle and Pete have done a fantastic job at the White Bear and have turned the pub into a lovely cosy family friendly local.
'They have a very strong vision for the pub and have turned it back into a real asset for the community, one which people will be proud to come back to time and time again and bring their friends. We wish Michelle & Pete all the best for the future and I can’t recommend paying them a visit enough.”
The White Bear joins Admiral Taverns' portfolio of over 840 pubs across the country.