The Board and Elbow pub, which is located on Penrith’s Cornmarket, temporarily closed this February as it underwent a £360k investment with leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
On March 10th, the pub reopened to the community and its mammoth transformation which boasts full internal and external redecorations and a new food and drink offering, has received rave reviews.
Notably, the pub’s physical transformation isn’t the only change, it has also reopened under new management, with experienced pub operator Debbie Burrows taking the helm.
Debbie said: “I’ve run a pub in Keswick for 25 years but retired just before Christmas. When the opportunity to take on a pub that was community-focused came up, I jumped at the chance.
“This is something I’ve always wanted to do, and I’m thrilled to have been given the chance to reignite the community here. The Board & Elbow is already a fantastic pub, and the team and I will do all we can to ensure we give our guests the very best service.”
The internal transformation of the pub boasts new fixtures and fittings, upcycled furniture, comfy seating and decorative lighting. The rustic charm of the wooden beams has been restored, complemented by the dark oak furniture and contrasting cool shades of beige and green.
As promised, the bar has undergone an exciting upgrade and is now fully stocked with drinks to suit every guest’s choice proudly displayed on the bar’s new shelves.
In keeping with the Board & Elbow’s new community feel, the investment has provided an all-new entertainment space with upgraded audio and visuals the community have already taken advantage of with live music lined up for most weekends. Sports is also a huge focus at the pub, with the biggest games and sporting action on display.
Externally, the pub’s generously sized beer garden has been given a facelift with a bistro-style outdoor space where guests can soak up the market town’s atmosphere.
Debbie continued: “We’re incredibly grateful to Punch for this investment, it looks fantastic, and our guests love their new local. I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to create a space where guests can enjoy a drink and some hearty pub food, as well as enjoy live entertainment and sports.
“In the future, we would love to host weekly quizzes and games, but our priority for now is to settle in, continue to meet the community and create a safe and welcoming space for all to enjoy.”
Aside from the pub’s aesthetic changes, a brand-new food menu will launch on the 26th of March introducing pub classics, family favourites and small plates, with weekday lunch deals and set menus available for occasion-led events.
Photography: Nick Short
Visit to their website: The Board & Elbow – Our Local Pub