Ye Olde Fleece Inn, the oldest pub in Kendal, has reopened its doors following a significant £600k joint investment by pub owners Punch and new Publicans, Dr Josh Macaulay and Dr Chris Moss.
The stunning, timber framed pub dates back to 1654, so it was important that the investment breathed new life into the historic building whilst maintaining all its existing charm and elegance. The results are spectacular.
Dr Josh Macaulay and Dr Chris Moss also own Kendal based Westmorland Homecare. 25 new jobs have been created following the investment with a skilled and passionate team in place.
Speaking about the changes, Punch CEO Clive Chesser, said “We are extremely proud of the work that has gone into transforming Ye Olde Fleece Inn. Our new Publicans, Josh and Chris, have exciting plans to ensure the Fleece is a pub for all occasions operating at the very heart of the community. We are looking forward to working with them as they grow their business over the forthcoming years.”
The works included full exterior redecorations, new signage and lighting. The interior has also been completely overhauled, with a full refurbishment creating a traditional casual dining pub downstairs with a fine dining restaurant and event rooms upstairs.
Dr Macaulay said “We are so pleased to finally be opening the doors, the pub looks fantastic! We have lots of plans for the Fleece and are passionate about creating a place for everyone to enjoy all year round bringing it back to the heart of the community.”
The pub has a high quality, all day food offer, as well as a wide range of drinks for customers to choose from including quality cask ale, craft beers, wine and a fantastic gin range.
Entertainment will also be a key focus, from steak and piano evenings and ‘retro’ film nights hosted in the Westmorland Suite upstairs. Ye Olde Fleece will also be home to Kendal’s very own Comedy Club which is launching on Mother’s Day.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn is the perfect venue to host any occasion, from a special anniversary to a birthday party or even a wedding.
Punch owns and operates 1300 pubs across England, Scotland and Wales and is investing £32 million in its pub estate in the next year with talented partners like Josh and Chris.
Pictured R-L: Dr Chris Moss, James McCall-Harkness & Dr Josh Macaulay