The Red Lion pub on the A61 in South Stainley is to reopen on Wednesday under new owners and with a new name.
Partners Graham Usher and Matt Rose have bought the pub, which has been renamed The Inn South Stainley, reflecting its village location between Harrogate and Ripon.
For years, the pub was popular with families because of its Wacky Warehouse soft play area.
The previous owners of The Inn South Stainley, which closed in March last year, invested £1.5m on converting the original standalone building into eight bedrooms, refurbishing the interior and creating another four guest rooms on its first floor.
The venue will offer accommodation and serve gastro pub meals, drinks and snacks. It is planned to open the restaurant and function suite in July.
There are also plans for two teepees with fire pits in different parts of the inn’s extensive grounds, to host private functions, including private wedding parties.
On 36 bus route
The Inn South Stainley will be managed by Mr Usher and Mr Rose’s hospitality consultancy, Mattgray Hospitality.
Launched in January 2019, the business already operates Selby pubs The Castle Inn and the Drovers Arms.
To replicate their formula at South Stainley, the two men have brought with them the Drovers’ long-standing head chef, Shane White, and recruited Chris Lawton as general manager.
Mr Usher said the pub was “exactly what we were looking for”, adding:
“It had recently been refurbished to a very high standard and included guest rooms. And with the number 36 Ripon, Harrogate, Leeds bus stopping right outside, it’s ideal for staff and customers who want to leave the car at home.”
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Mr Rose said:
“Many people still call it by its previous name, The Red Lion, and talk about it being the place to go to eat and drink. Our intention is to make this well-known pub a must visit destination again for those who love great food, great drinks and a great atmosphere.”
More information about The Inn South Stainley is available here.
