Nestled in the heart of Alnwick, The Fleece pub has long been a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike. Recently, this beloved family pub has undergone a complete transformation, thanks to a £300,000 investment from leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
For the past 18 months, The Fleece has been run by Bobby and Charlotte Chapman, the dynamic Management Partners who have poured their hearts into the pub. With their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for the industry, they have always seen the potential in The Fleece and had a clear vision to retain the pub and town’s rich history, whilst ensuring their pub remains a haven for the community.
Bobby said: “When we first stepped foot into The Fleece, we immediately recognised its potential and all we wanted to do was to ensure the community got to enjoy it for many years to come. This investment from Punch was desperately needed, and we’re so grateful to be able to offer a new pub which not only looks great, but guests are raving about too!”
The recent investment has brought many changes to The Fleece, boasting new exterior decorations and signage, a new bar top, fresh carpets and updated fixtures and fittings throughout. Though the changes are big, retaining the pub’s characteristics was always at the forefront, and so despite the modern touches, Bobby says it still remains a ‘proper British pub’. He continued: “The Fleece is renowned as a real-good family pub, you know what to expect, and everyone feels welcome, so it was vital that we didn’t lose that in the transformation. Charlotte, the team and I are thrilled with the changes, and it’s really got the community talking.”
In taking guests on a nostalgic journey, Bobby and Charlotte opted to create a captivating photo wall adorned with over 400 pictures as part of the new look pub, that tell the story of not only Alnwick’s past, but include former guests, breweries, factories, old sports teams and mines, allowing guests to sit, reminisce and share stories as they explore the newest addition.
The Fleece is also known locally for its real ale offering, with Bobby proudly proclaiming the pub now has three ale handpulls, which have been a hit with the local community, alongside its homemade pub classics including steak and ale pie, gammon and chips, and the locals’ favourite, Sunday roast.
Self-labelled as the ‘friendliest pub in Alnwick’, a sentiment Bobby says is echoed by many guests, the duo is most proud of their pub’s welcoming atmosphere, lovingly nurtured by themselves and their dedicated team, fondly known as #teamfleece, believing it’s this sense of community and family that truly sets The Fleece apart.
Keeping with the community spirit, The Fleece is hosting a 10-week karaoke competition. Each week, a winner will be chosen to compete in the final round, where the lucky winner will be awarded a cash prize of £500. This is the second time Bobby and Charlotte have run the event, and this year, they expect it to be bigger and better than ever.
As they enjoy the results of their transformed pub and look ahead to the next 12 months, Bobby and Charlotte have a jam-packed summer lined up at The Fleece and are excited to continue welcoming guests new, and old, back through their doors.
Website: Fleece – Our Local Pub
Photography: Nick Short Photography – NICK SHORT PHOTOGRAPHY