The Lambton pub reopened dramatically this July, following a four-week-long investment by leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
The Durham pub, nestled in the heart of Chester-Le-Street, now boasts a completely new look and feel after its temporary closure, and has been reopened with pub-passionate hospitality star, Adam Lillistone, at the helm.
Management Partner Adam brings a wealth of experience to the pub. Having been on both sides of the bar, both operationally and in management, he is no stranger to the world of pubs and was excited at the opportunity to return to his hometown of Durham and get to work on reviving it.
He said: “After years working in the field, in the kitchen, and helping to train future hospitality stars, I’ve decided to return home and take the helm of a pub once again. This opportunity that Punch has given me is huge but incredibly exciting, and I look forward to seeing where our future takes us. The first few weeks have been great; the community has welcomed us, and they are proud of the changes we’ve made to their local. Above all, I have a fantastic team at The Lambton, which has reignited my passion!”
The £400k investment by Punch has completely transformed The Lambton. Its grand stature and majestic presence in the middle of Front Street now command attention, thanks to a striking new look and refreshed colour scheme. Externally, the pub has been repainted, and former signage and boards have been replaced by bold new branding. The outdoor area has also been revitalised with new seating, vibrant planting, and branded umbrellas – perfect for when the British weather takes a turn.
Inside, the pub has retained its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where rich green tones complement muted furniture and pendant lighting, creating a sophisticated yet temporary feel. Bookshelves, bric-a-brac and indoor plants adorn the dining area, adding character and charm. Meanwhile, the bar area has been refreshed with a modern new look, perfectly showcasing the pub’s extensive drinks offering.
For sports fans, The Lambton features multiple TV screens to showcase the biggest live events, creating the perfect spot to catch all the action. The entertainment schedule has also been enhanced, with a regular line-up of live music ready to carry guests through the summer and into the festive season.
Punch Pubs & Co Operations Manager, Tony Iles, added: “We’ve had a brilliant few weeks at The Lambton, and I’m incredibly proud of Adam and the team for their hard work and commitment to putting this fantastic pub back on the map. This pub is special and truly has it all – from sports and function rooms to live entertainment, and I do not doubt the community will continue to love their local for many years to come.”
Since its grand reopening, The Lambton’s food offerings have also been a hit with guests. With a focus on upgrading the pub’s kitchen, the team has curated an all-new menu, boasting breakfast classics like eggs Benedict and American pancake stacks to evening favourites such as beer-battered fish, chicken tikka masala, and steak and ale pie, which have been warmly received. Guests can also be assured that they will enjoy a clear, crisp and cold pint following improvements to the pub cellar.
Many will also know that The Lambton offers 11 guest rooms perfect for enjoying days out in nearby Newcastle, catching pre- or post-match games at the iconic Chester-Le-Street cricket ground, or simply relaxing in the heart of the market town. Plans are now underway to refurbish and reopen these rooms this August, creating stylish yet cosy spaces furnished with muted tones, pendant lighting, and plush fabrics.
With the reopening now complete, Adam and the team are focused on delighting every guest that walks through the door, helping to inspire those in-pub moments and creating memories which last a lifetime.
Pub website: The Lambton – Our Local Pub