Bad weather? The Wollaton has it covered
PUB HAS HUGE TENT IN BEER GARDEN FOR BIG REOPENING
A PUB landlord has installed a huge tent in his beer garden as part of preparations for reopening next week.
From Monday, the next step of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown will begin and non-essential businesses across Nottinghamshire can open again.
Hospitality venues such as pubs and restaurants will be able to serve customers in outside seating areas.
While many pubs may have purposebuilt shelters, others are either taking a risk with the weather or have looked for ways to offer some protection.
Simon Barnes, general manager at the The Wollaton Pub and Kitchen in Lambourne Drive, has opted for the latter, and has installed a “stretch tent” in one part of the beer garden.
While it provides good shelter against wind and rain, there is also ample ventilation to keep in line with restrictions.
Simon, 49, said the new addition to the pub had been given the green light by the city council and the team has been busy preparing for next week.
“Lots of pubs have been doing marquees for some shelter but I wanted to stand out and be a bit different,” Simon said.
“I found a company that does these stretch tents and it just means customers will get a bit more cover until we can have them back inside.
“We’re looking at getting about ten tables under there at least.”
Simon said he was aware that not all pubs, even those with gardens or outdoor space, were choosing to reopen given the financial risk involved if the weather wasn’t good.
“It was a long and hard decision that we had to make, and if the weather is particularly bad, even with the tent, it will still hurt the business,” Simon added.
“It only covers about a quarter of the garden but we made the decision to go for it. We’ve a great set of loyal customers who I know will support us.”
The pub’s takeaway Sunday roasts have been a big hit during the lockdown and Simon said it “felt only right” to reopen on the 12th.
“It is a gamble, and I’ve heard around 40 percent of eligible businesses won’t reopen next week, but anyone who has seen what we’ve got planned has been really pleased,” he added. “It’s an investment and if the weather doesn’t play ball, it’ll be difficult but we’re keeping our fingers crossed.”
Unlike some venues, The Wollaton is not taking bookings for its outdoor area and is instead operating on a first come, first served basis. The food menu has been slightly altered to a more takeaway style, with meals of burgers, pies and fish and chips served in recyclable boxes to help efficiency but also, for any quick getaways.
“If the heavens do open, people can jump in their car or take their food home,” Simon said.
“Although I have had customers tell me they’ll be here in their fishing gear and umbrellas, whatever it takes!
“In September last year we had a couple of incidents where the garden was full of diners, and the rain started pouring and we were left with plates of water.
“The new menu will be quite funky and more practical so it’s going to be very exciting. I’m looking forward to it.”
Lots of pubs have been doing marquees for shelter but I wanted to stand out and be a bit different Simon Barnes