YORK HANDMADE PLAYS PIVOTAL ROLE IN RENAISSANCE OF ICONIC LAKE DISTRICT INN
The award-winning York
Handmade Brick Company has played a pivotal role in the transformation of one
of the Lake District’s most iconic inns.
York Handmade, based at Alne,
near Easingwold, has provided 4,000 state-of-the-art terracotta floor tiles for
The
Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge, near Penrith.
The
Crown has recently opened its doors for business following a multi-million pound
refurbishment by owners Thwaites.
The pub is unrecognisable from before, with a new first-floor roof
terrace which has stunning views along Ullswater towards Hellvelyn and the
Hartsop fells. Inside, the bar and dining area have been transformed, a new
riverside patio has been built and 17 beautiful new guest bedrooms give a
perfect base for a break in the Lakes.
Guy
Armitage, managing director of York Handmade Brick, commented: “We are
absolutely delighted to have played a part in the magnificent renaissance of
the Crown Inn. This
is an inn with a tremendous reputation in a beautiful setting.
“We are proud that our
tiles were chosen to play a pivotal part of this renaissance. They are based on
our Dusk Rustic 200mm x200mm product. Thwaites wanted them to be extra rustic so
we hand-finished the tiles by rubbing extra sawdust into each of them. This
created even more individuality, character and timeless appeal, which is synonymous
with the Thwaites brand.
“It is reassuring that
Thwaites are using quality British-made products on their interiors. They have done a great job by combining a
modern look with the character of the original pub,”
said Mr Armitage.
Thwaites Chief Executive Officer, Rick Bailey, said: “The pub is
absolutely sensational. I have no doubt that The Crown is going to become a
firm favourite with people visiting Pooley Bridge and the Lake District.”
Meanwhile, the General
Manager of The Crown, Louise Van Delft said: “The tiles are really
eye-catching. They’ve been a great addition to the design of the inn and really
fit in with the homely, welcoming feel we want to offer here at The Crown Inn.
“Our
customers think they are superb and some have asked who provided them. As a
result, we have asked York Handmade for some business cards so we can spread
the word,” she added.
Chris
Catelani of architects and interior designers Innex Design added: “It was a
pleasure to work with York Handmade. The finished product is amazing,
complementing the remarkable transformation of this iconic inn.