Former Michelin Star chef embarks on new venture in Northumberland town

Bewick’s Kitchen & Coffee House, led by local businessman and former Michelin Star chef, Kevin Mulraney, opened on Monday.

He had originally planned to open in April but but this was delayed due to the impact of Covid-19 and then the need to put in the measures to help staff and customers adhere to the necessary hygiene and social distancing guidelines.

Kevin said: “After a longer wait than expected, I’m glad that the coffee house can now open and customers can experience our menu of delicious, locally sourced food in a safe environment.

“I never imagined that I’d host diners in such a unique and historic location, I’m grateful to Northumberland County Council and Northumberland National Park Authority in helping to make Bewick’s Kitchen & Coffee House a reality.”

Church House, which remains a base for the Northumberland National Park Authority, Forestry England and Northumbria Police will now be sharing the 140-year-old building with the new coffee house which is located on the ground floor.

Work in the building to create the venue has been low impact, taking inspiration for the décor from the building’s original creator William Bewick, using reclaimed panelling from the original building to help maintain the heritage and historic feel of the location.

Tony Gates, chief executive of the Northumberland National Park Authority said: “The Northumberland National Park Authority is passionate about local businesses and showcasing of the great local produce we have here in Northumberland and it’s great to see the coffee house in Church House opening its doors to the public.

“Rothbury has enjoyed a resurgence of visitors over the last few years, being one of the most scenic and accessible parts of the park and developments like this will continue to help bolster what the area has to offer to locals and visitors alike.

“I wish Kevin and his team every success.”

Bewick’s Kitchen & Coffee House, which boasts a food menu with locally sourced, fresh ingredients, is open seven days a week from 9am.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive. We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

If you can, please do pick up a copy when you are at the shops. Thank you for your support.