Major £500,000 refurb to neglected Burnley pub begins on Monday

The Bay Horse in Worsthorne, Burnley, has been closed since December 2019, but on Monday work will begin to transform the venue, with an anticipated re-opening set for mid-July.

The £500,000 investment is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars and the Hightown Pub Company Ltd owned by Chris and Jon Nevin.

The front of the pub will be completely transformed, returning it to a standard the village can be proud of, while 30 new jobs will also be created.

To the rear, the courtyard is being given a stunning new look with a choice of covered dining options.

A spokesperson for Star Pubs and Bars said: "As a sun-trap in the summer and a heated and covered outside space for those cold and wet days too, it will be a great option for villagers, dog lovers and visitors to the area.

"With the many outdoor activities that the area provides, this will be a great spot to finish a walk or just relax into the day with great quality fresh food and a wide range of premium beers, wines and spirits."

28th May 2021 The Bay Horse, 17 Church Square, Worsthorne, Burnley BB10 3NH L-R Chris Nevin - Director/ Owner / Jon Nevin - Director/ Owner MANDATORY CREDIT: Bernard Platt For editorial use only. Copyright remains property of Bernard Platt Wigan

Inside, The Bay Horse is being given a completely new look, while still retaining some of its traditional country pub features.

The design of the interior will include wooden panelling, limestone floors, an open fire, while a state-of-the-art kitchen is being installed to allow the pub to offer locally sourced and freshly prepared food.

The whole pub is being opened up to create a more spacious environment and there will also be a new function and private dining space upstairs.

The spokesperson added: "The pub will be open for weekend brunch from 10am and food will be available from 12pm till late evening daily.

"Sunday lunch with all the trimmings will complete the week and the private dining upstairs will allow bigger family get-togethers to start again in style after a long time apart.

"The menu will feature dishes ranging from fresh fish and mussels, our own signature ribs, burgers and steaks, to a selection of vegetarian, gluten free and vegan options.

"A full range of coffee choices and hot chocolates will be available to enjoy at the pub or to take away on walks, rides or treks.

"For those getting together for drinks there will be a selected wine list, craft beers, premium lagers, as well as an extensive range of gins, both local and the familiar."

28th May 2021 The Bay Horse, 17 Church Square, Worsthorne, Burnley BB10 3NH Aimee Ollerenshaw - Manager MANDATORY CREDIT: Bernard Platt For editorial use only. Copyright remains property of Bernard Platt Wigan Warriors

The Bay Horse is Hightown Pub Company Ltd's second pub, with co-owner Chris Nevin bringing more than 20 years’ industry experience to the venue.

Mr Nevin said: “When we first saw The Bay Horse, we could immediately see its potential.

"We want to provide the village and the wider area with a pub that has something for everyone looking for fresh food in an environment that matches the quality of the food and drink, whether popping in for lunch or dinner or just drinks at the weekend.

"We’re creating a fantastic pub offering excellent service, lovely surroundings and great food and drink.

"It’s all about doing simple things well.

"Whatever the reason to visit, you’ll find a warm welcome from our experienced manager, Aimee Ollerenshaw and her team.”

Star Pubs and Bars business development manager Chris Newsham, said: “The Bay Horse is a great pub in a fantastic village.

"It is sad it has been closed for so long, but it was important that the right operators with vision take it forward.

"We’re delighted that Chris and Jon are taking on the pub and wish them well with their plans.

"They make a strong team and I’m sure with the new management they have installed at The Bay Horse, it will become a great village pub that will attract people from the surrounding area.

“Heineken is a passionate supporter of the great British pub. This investment will take The Bay Horse to a new level and ensure it stands out from other pubs in the area.”