Seafood Pub Co opens first 'proper pub'

A popular Pendle village pub officially opened its doors to the public this week, under the banner of the fast expanding Seafood Pub Company group.

The Barley Mow has undergone a complete transformation and its new hunting lodge style complete with roaring fires is already proving popular among locals and visitors to the area.

Once a general village store selling everything from fishing rods to bread and milk, the original Barley Mow was famed for its belly busting mixed grill, yet since its closure last year, the building had stood empty.

This week however, the Barley Mow was once again embraced by villagers and visitors alike as it became the first in a new division of pubs for the Seafood Pub Company; Pub Co - where the emphasis lies in being a proper pub.

Managing director of the group, Joycelyn Neve, said: “The Barley Mow has been refurbished with open fires and cosy corners to create a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for family meals or drinks with friends. A covered outdoor area makes the Barley Mow the perfect location to refuel and rehydrate after a day exploring the Pendle countryside.

“We have six country bedrooms which we hope will prove popular among business people and weekend walkers alike and work is soon to be complete on our outdoor heated areas, perfect for dog walkers and cyclists looking for a deserved refreshment stop.”

Executive chef Antony Shirley has developed a menu of pub classics and on trend eats. Dishes are influenced by cuisine from across America and Europe, from sandwiches and salads to curries, tacos and stews. And complementing the food menu is a wide range of cask ales, world beers and award winning wines.

Joycelyn added: “Everyone has been so welcoming, despite the multitude of vans descending on the village each day to get it to this point, and we can’t thank the villagers enough for their patience.”

Manager Matt Ward said: “We’ve enjoyed an amazing welcome so far and everyone has been so friendly. I’ve really enjoyed hearing tales of old about the original pub and will be digging into the archives for more stories and pictures which we can share with visitors new and old.

“I particularly want to meet anyone who survived the famous mixed grill and shake their hand!” Other sites in the Seafood Pub Company group are The Oyster and Otter in Feniscowles, The Assheton Arms in Downham, The Fenwick in Claughton, the Farmers Arms in Great Eccleston and the Derby Arms in Thornley, Longridge.