A historic village pub has announced it will reopen its doors after nearly a year.

The New Inn at Yealand closed last May due to a surge in operating costs.

Now, it is all set to welcome its patrons and tourists from April 26.

Part of the village since the 1830s, the family-owned pub was acquired by Barry Robinson and his daughter, Fiona, in 2016.

It underwent hefty renovations and refurbishment before it first opened in 2017, swiftly becoming a beloved hub in the community.

Some parts of the Grade II building even date back to 1680.

The Westmorland Gazette:

The pub, which holds the honour of being registered as an Asset of Community Value in June 2023, will once again open its doors with a renewed focus on being a village pub.

There's a clear hope that this deep local sentiment will translate into footfall and support.

Along with its seven uniquely styled rooms, The New Inn will operate on a bed and breakfast basis from Thursdays to Sundays.

The bar will also open its doors for drinks from 3pm-9pm.

The Westmorland Gazette: The New Inn at Yealand closed last May due to a surge in operating costs

Owner Fiona Robinson said: "We were hugely sad to close The New Inn last year and have been working hard over the last few months to come up with a viable way to reopen again.

"We put our heart and souls into the original renovation and were proud of what we managed to achieve with guests consistently leaving us 5-star reviews and returning for repeat visits to explore this beautiful part of the country."

She added: "At the crux of it, the New Inn is a village pub and we need that local support now more than ever.

"You only have to look at the news to see pub closures, particularly amongst small, independent village pubs, are at the highest they’ve been for over a decade.

"Let’s hope, with community support, we can now buck that trend and keep The New Inn where it should be at the heart of the local community for many more years to come.

"We certainly can’t wait to welcome everyone back through the doors next Friday!"

For more information on The New Inn, visit thenewinnyealand.co.uk.