The Hurt Arms in Ambergate benefits from £1m refurbishment
Building work has begun on a major £1m refurbishment of the Hurt Arms in Ambergate by local operators BKJ Leisure and Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars. 40 new jobs will be created when it reopens at the beginning of May as a top-quality country inn and wedding venue.
In the photograph are manager, Dan Blagg and General Manager, Luke Richards.
Funds are being spent on a complete overhaul of the 19th century building, creating an industrial vintage style contemporary country inn, unlike anything else in the area. Exposed metal work, reclaimed rustic wood panelling and industrial lighting are being incorporated into the design to create a warm vintage look.
The interior is being reconfigured to include: an extended restaurant area, which will double the seating capacity from 60 to 120; a new zinc covered central bar with cosy alcove and booth seating; and an 80 seater function room, The Tollgate Suite (named after the toll house and gate that was adjoined to The Hurt Arms in the 1870’s) which can be hired out for private events and weddings. Six boutique bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms with a rustic contemporary country look are also being created.
The kitchen is being upgraded to enable the pub to offer top quality gastro food and cater for large numbers.
Following the refurbishment, The Hurt Arms will be open for breakfast and all-day barista style coffee and gastro quality pub food featuring fresh locally sourced ingredients. On Sundays, the family friendly pub will host a traditional carvery. There will also be community pub quiz nights, live music and regular entertainment including a comedy club. In the summer, the Hurt Arms will host a monthly classic car club.
There will be a wide selection of drinks including premium lagers such as Birra Moretti, Amstel and Heineken Served Extra Cold, craft ales including local favourites Thornbridge, Amber Ales and Dancing Duck, an extensive gin menu and cocktails made to order.
The Hurt Arms is BKJ Leisure’s third venue. Run by Karen & Barry Johnson and Luke Richards, their other sites are the popular The White Hart at Moorwood Moor – a country hotel and wedding venue and The Horse & Jockey country inn and hotel at Wessington.
Luke Richards, General Manager, BJK Leisure said: “The location of the Hurt Arms is second to none, nestled in the Ambergate valley and overlooking the village cricket club. When the lease came up, we leapt at the opportunity to take it on and create a distinctive country inn and an outstanding wedding venue.
“We’re designing the Hurt Arms so it offers something for everyone - walkers, tourists, locals and businesses. We can’t wait to open the doors and put Ambergate on the map for having the best pub in the area.”
Craig Nevins, business development manager for Star Pub & Bars said: “Pubs like The Hurt Arms need ongoing investment to ensure they remain relevant to the communities they serve. Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub and so is pleased to help BKJ Leisure realise their exciting vision for The Hurt Arms. They can see its potential, know the area well and have a great reputation for hospitality. It’s good news for everyone.”
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