A centuries-old landmark village pub springs back into life tomorrow (Tuesday 4th October) after a £2million makeover.
The Old Pump in Barlow, which had stood forlorn since closing in December 2014, has been transformed into a sophisticated country pub with a host of local real ales and Derbyshire produce on the menu.
Its new lease of life actually harks back to a previous life – the Hackney Lane pub is to be renamed The Peacock At Barlow, the title it was given by landowners the Duke of Rutland when it began life as a busy 18th century coaching inn.
“The Dukes of Rutland were major landowners in this region and gave The Peacock name to all the inns on their patch,” said landlord Roger Salt. “I believe the Rutland coat of arms featured a peacock crest, but why all the pubs were given the same name I don’t know. Maybe the intention was to create one of the earliest forms of pub chains. I’d love to find out more. If there’s a local history buff who knows the answer, there’s a pint in it.”
Roger and wife Rebecca ran pubs in Chesterfield before taking over the Kelstedge Inn on the outskirts of Ashover.
Said Rebecca: “We are thrilled to be at the helm of The Peacock at Barlow. It has to be one of the most stylish pubs around. No expense has been spared, yet great care has been taken to ensure the country character and history has been retained and our finest feature – the magnificent view – is allowed to shine.
“The atmosphere is sophisticated, yet relaxed, a place where people can come for a night out or straight from a long country walk for good ale and a scrumptious meal made from the wealth of quality produce on our doorstep. Local residents have actually helped to create the menu; we asked for their favourite pub dishes and ideas have been flooding in.”
A glass atrium, conservatory and four luxury en-suite guest bedrooms have been created for the October opening. Four more bedrooms will be added shortly in the next phase of development and in the New Year the pub will boast its own on-site brewery, The Derbyshire Brewing Company.
The pub has been redeveloped by local businessmen Derek Mapp and David Bond, who have a strong background in innkeeping and hospitality from their Mansfield Brewery and Tom Cobleigh days. Derek’s son Chris runs the highly-acclaimed pub and restaurant the Tickled Trout in Valley Road, Barlow.
Original article courtesy of Destination Chesterfield
