Raise a glass for new pub at popular NationalTrust property
BIG plans are brewing at Gibside where visitor attractions are being expanded to cater for even more tastes.
The National Trust property at Rowlands Gill has revealed that a pub will be opening on-site in news which has surprised - and delighted - its regulars.
The Garden Tap Pub at Gibside, a partnership with Blaydon-based Firebrick Brewery, is set to launch at noon on May 27.
Ahead of the big day, it is taking shape in the Market Place - in the area which houses the bookshop and cafe - where an old bakery is being converted into a pub with a bar and pizza oven.
There will be seating both inside and on the veranda and families will have the option of playing garden games.
Firebrick Brewery, owned by Alistair Lawrence, opened in 2012 and also has an outlet in the Grainger Market in Newcastle. Its beer-making takes inspiration from the heritage of the region.
It had previously provided beer for Gibside’s cafe so when Alistair was approached with the idea of setting up a standalone pub to run throughout the summer months, he says the idea appealed, especially as the site as with many historic properties would once have had its own brewing traditions. .
The pub, to open from Wednesday to Saturday, will offer three cask ales and two keg lines alongside spirits and wine plus Firebrick will be offering a pizza menu and bar snacks.
Opening hours will be from noon until 6pm; with later opening until 9pm on a Friday - which includes its launch day - and for special monthly Saturday events. From its May launch, the pub will be in business until the first week of October.
Alistair is also looking into special openings for events such as the upcoming summer performance at Gibside of Romeo and Juliet and its annual light trail at Christmas. Gibside first shared news of the pub on its Facebook page and its followers were quick to respond and to share the news with friends.
The attraction used to run Beer and Bite ‘pub’ nights, featuring drinks, street food and family entertainment, but now visitors are being offered the real deal. This is a proper pub, run by the brewery on Gibside’s land. Normal admission charge, which helps funds the charity’s conservation work, will still apply, while parking is free.