Preston's Plau back under control of original managers

Jeremy and Rebecca Rowlands proudly opened Plau Gin and Beer House in 2018 as a labour of love after four years of extensive renovation work on the building, which dates back to 1668.

It quickly became one of Preston’s favourite venues and was named Pub of the Year at the most recent Lancashire Tourism Awards.

Jeremy famously discovered a 40-foot well in the basement of the venue and it draws its name from previously being known as The Plough Inn. However, the restoration meant the venue was used as a bar for the first time since 1913.

Preston's Plau with Fino eatery (Image: Plau Bar)

Jeremy and Rebecca, who are part of the Meat and Drink group, ended their involvement with the venue towards the end of 2022 due to other time commitments. The venue then remained open under different management.

However, Plau was returned to the duo at the beginning of August and as part of that deal, the pair also assumed management of the Fino Tapas brand, although not the company that owned Fino and its obligations.

Fino Tapas relocated from Guildhall Street to the second floor of Plau in June under the previous management.

All the existing staff at Fino Tapas have been re-employed since Jeremy and Rebecca stepped back in and no redundancies were made.

Jeremy said: “We only had two days’ notice, but we have been enjoying and relishing the challenge.

“August has been about stabilising the business. We are now pushing forward with new ideas to keep things fresh.

“Fino still has the same kitchen team and customers can expect the same freshly cooked, delicious tapas they have had in the past. We still think Fino is a great brand and look forward to taking things forward into a new chapter.”

Of those fresh ideas, Plau Gin and Beer House will soon be ready to announce plans through the Autumn and Winter for its underground area known as The Vaults.