North East pub company expands its portfolio

A North East hospitality company is expanding its portfolio of restaurants and pubs in the region.

The Northumberland Pub Co, which owns The Blackbird in Ponteland, has acquired The Northumberland Arms, based in Felton.

The group has spent over £70,000 on refurbishments and renovations to update the former coaching inn since taking over the venue before lockdown.

A new outdoor eating and drinking space has been built and furnished, which has the potential to accommodate larger parties and groups, current government guidelines permitting.

Stuart Young, owner of The Northumberland Pub Co, said: ‘‘I’ve admired The Northumberland Arms for a long time now, so it was an obvious choice for me when I learnt that the previous owners had decided to sell.

‘‘We acquired the building before lockdown was enforced, so it’s given us plenty of time to work on the venue before we reopened – updating its look while retaining all of its original charm.’’

He added: ‘‘We’ve had fantastic feedback from diners and with everyone making the most of staycations this year, our picturesque location has proved very popular among guests.”