Northumberland country pub poised to reopen for first time in two years on Monday, April 12

The Plough on the Hill at West Allerdean, near Berwick, closed in April 2019 and was put on the market – just two years after it underwent a £1.3million transformation.

It has been taken on by experienced publican Alan Newton, of Inn Trade Solutions, who has carried out a further revamp ahead of reopening on Monday, April 12.

Pub manager Lorenz Willcox said: “It’s going to be incredible. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the new Plough on the Hill.

"There have been a lot of changes – and a lot of money spent – on reviving the history of The Plough.”

The south-facing rear of the premises has had its timber painted, while the outdoor decking area has been given a makeover.

Patio heaters and wind breaks will be in place should the weather be less than fantastic over the first few weeks.

Government guidance will be closely followed which means the rule of six will remain in place initially.

"As always our priority is the safety of our staff and customers, while also delivering fabulous food and a welcoming atmosphere,” said Lorenz.

Customers will have to wait until May 17 to see the changes made indoors which include the division of the bar and restaurant.

"The bar is now called The Folly,” revealed Lorenz. “We wanted to tailor it towards locals who felt they had lost their pub the way it was before.

"The restaurant is called Arkwrights because of its shop theme.”

There will be a varied menu with proper country pub food, sourced locally from the likes of Foreman the butchers and Doddington Dairy.

"A lot of the feedback we got was that it was expensive so we’ve taken that on board and made it more affordable,” said Lorenz.

The venue had previously been transformed by Robert Kingsley and Sarah Carmichael and opened to great fanfare in September 2017 with MasterChef: The Professionals winner Gary Maclean at the helm in the kitchen.

Bookings can only be taken through the website. Please visit https://www.ploughonthehill.com/bookings

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