Ruddington Arms owner to open new pub

Building work has begun at the White Lion in Bingham to create “the best outdoor drinking and eating space in the area”.

The £180,000 spend on the pub upgrade by new licensee, Mark Anderson, owner of the renowned Ruddington Arms, and Star Pubs & Bars, Heineken’s leased pub business, will create around 15-20 jobs as a result.

Anderson’s plans for the pub are to retain the pub’s character whilst broadening its appeal by reintroducing classic pub food and sharing platters and improving its facilities to enhance drinkers’ experience and those watching live sport.

Traditional features such as flagstone flooring are being retained with more comfortable furniture installed in the lounge area and new industrial style lighting added. The interior is being redecorated in more contemporary grey and blue hues and reclaimed wood used to add warmth. The overall effect will be a modern yet traditional urban pub. Outside the pub will have new signage which will reflect the new look and feel of the pub.

The highlight of the investment will be the re-landscaped garden which will double its size and create the best family friendly outdoor space in the area. An outdoor pool table, fire pits, new lighting and heated garden sheds are being installed with hot water bottles and blankets for use in colder months, offering private drinking and dining spaces.

Craft beer such as Shipyard American Ale, Theakstons IPA, and Orchard Thieves Cider will be introduced whilst popular brands such as Fosters and John Smiths retained. There will also be a range of 10 gins including small bath gins such as the local Redsmith gin.

The menu at the White Lion will include pub classics such as fish & chips, steak & kidney pudding, burgers and grilled steaks as well as sharing platters and grazing food like hot camembert, British meats and cheese boards, ideal food for watching sport.

Anderson said: “I intend keeping the pool table, darts board and Sky sports, which makes The White Lion stand out from other pubs in the area, whilst improving customers’ down time, by providing food for those who want it, comfortable seating alongside more rustic seating bar furniture and expanding the drinks on offer.

“The outside will be a cut above anything else in the area. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for an Indian Summer, so people can enjoy it to the full. And if it’s not, the heaters and blankets will ensure customers have a warm and enjoyable experience throughout the winter months.”

David Pritchard, Star Pubs & Bars operations and sales director said: “Mark has done a fantastic job with the Ruddington Arms. Although it has a great reputation for food, it is still a local pub. He’s successfully managed to appeal to a broad customer base with people from all backgrounds enjoying a pint together. Although the offer is different, Mark knows how to provide great customer service and understands what communities want. We’re delighted he is taking on and developing The White Lion and wish him every success.”