A NEW £3m bar in the heart of one of the Lake District's most popular tourist destinations has opened.

Baha is set across three floors on Ash Street, Bowness, and is the brainchild of local entrepreneur Steven Hargreaves, who is also behind champagne bar The Fizzy Tarté, and Kay Harrison-Mann.

“I am really excited to launch Baha, which has been almost two years in the making to ensure it’s absolutely perfect," said Mr Hargreaves.

"Once again, Kay and I had very clear objectives in its creation and were keen to offer a music bar with a sophisticated city-vibe at sensible prices, but with very personal touches such as bespoke live music."

The luxury establishment, dubbed Cumbria’s very first ‘music bar’, has a lounge bar on the ground floor providing live music from renowned artistes such as Spencer Read.

Mr Read's piano and singing skills have been utilised by the likes of Richard Branson on his privately-owned island in the Caribbean Sea. He will be in residence at Baha for its first seven weeks after opening.

The lounge bar will offer a contemporary menu, in a relaxed environment to suit all, including sharing dishes and city-style brunch.

The bar will also specialise in quality gins, vodkas, rums and craft beers.

The first floor, opening in mid-September, will provide a tasting house, grill and fish selection, with international-themed dishes and an extensive wine list complimenting the menu.

The top floor will open in late 2017 and will comprise an exclusive space for private hire, using the latest technology in music, AV and lighting. This space will be unique in the north of England, with users creating their own bespoke environment.

Cocktails mixed by expert mixologists will be available.

Mr Hargreaves’ offerings, including the Cranleigh Boutique, The Hideout and the Boutique Church Suites, have become celebrated for their plush interiors and Baha will be just as lavish.

Sumptuous furnishings, high-tech lighting, technology by EPIXX , and TV screens on the ground floor linking into social media are just a few of the luxuries available to customers.

“We’re creating jobs, something exceptional and drawing people to the area, which can only be good for the county as a whole," said Mr Hargreaves.

"Ultimately, Baha will be on-trend, unique and exciting and I’m delighted to be able to bring that to the Lake District.”